5 Common Mistakes People Make While Choosing Solar — And How to Avoid Them

Switching to solar is one of the smartest decisions you can make — for your pocket, and for the planet. But let’s be honest: the journey from “I want to go solar” to actually enjoying lower electricity bills can feel confusing. With so many options, installers, and government schemes out there, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

To help you avoid the pitfalls, we’ve listed the 5 most common mistakes people make while choosing solar — and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Focusing Only on Price, Not Quality

The Mistake: Many people go for the cheapest option available, thinking all solar panels are the same. The truth? Low-cost panels often compromise on efficiency and durability.

How to Avoid It: Think long-term. Invest in good-quality panels and trusted installers. Remember, solar is not a one-year expense but a 25+ year investment.

2. Ignoring Rooftop Suitability

The Mistake: Not every rooftop is ready for solar. Shaded areas, weak structures, or wrong orientation can drastically reduce your system’s performance.

How to Avoid It: Get a professional site inspection done before installation. A proper assessment ensures maximum sunlight exposure and structural safety.

3. Overlooking Government Subsidies & Incentives

The Mistake: Many homeowners don’t take full advantage of government subsidies or net metering policies simply because they aren’t aware of them. That means losing out on big savings!

How to Avoid It: Always ask your installer about the latest subsidy schemes. Stay updated through official government portals — or follow platforms like ikaya.earth, where we simplify solar policies for you.

4. Not Checking Installer Credentials

The Mistake: Choosing a random installer without verifying their experience or certifications. This often leads to poor workmanship and after-sales headaches.

How to Avoid It: Work only with MNRE-approved installers or companies with proven experience. Read reviews, ask for references, and check their previous projects.

5. Forgetting About Maintenance & Warranties

The Mistake: Many people assume that once panels are installed, they’ll work forever without any care. Neglecting maintenance or ignoring warranty terms can reduce efficiency over time.

How to Avoid It: Choose panels with a solid warranty (at least 20–25 years). And don’t skip regular cleaning — even dust can cut generation by 10–20%.

Conclusion

Going solar is not just about saving on your electricity bill — it’s about making a sustainable lifestyle choice that benefits you and future generations. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your solar journey is smooth, rewarding, and truly worth it.

At ikaya.earth, we believe the right knowledge empowers you to make better decisions. If you’re thinking about installing solar, start with awareness, choose wisely, and enjoy the sunshine savings for years to come.