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When considering a big investment like solar, one of the first questions homeowners ask is, “Why should I pay more when there are cheaper options available?” It’s a natural thought. After all, saving money upfront sounds appealing. But when it comes to solar panels, inverters, and racking systems, cutting corners on cost can often lead to hidden expenses, lower energy production, and frustrating maintenance issues down the road.
In this blog, we’ll walk through why some homeowners choose premium solar panels while others go for budget options, and what the long-term consequences of that decision might be. By understanding the differences, you can make an informed choice that maximizes your savings, protects your home investment, and ensures your solar system works efficiently for decades.
1. Not All Solar Panels Are Created Equal – Why Quality Matters
It goes without saying that your solar panels are the most important component of your solar installation. Choosing the right panels is critical to ensure you get the best return on your investment.
Some companies lower their prices by using outdated or low-efficiency panels that might not perform as well over time. Not only do these panels degrade faster but they lack the durability to withstand the heavy snow loads we experience in New York. Over time, these conditions create micro-fractures in the solar cells and seriously impact the performance of your panels.
At Empire Solar, we primarily use REC Alpha Pure panels, which are known for their industry leading efficiency, durability and performance. With a sleek design and high energy output, these panels are guaranteed to produce over 92% of their day one production after 25 years. These panels also have a built-in back brace that prevents micro-factures from forming in the solar cells, making them ideal for New York’s heavy snowfalls.
Tip: Always ask about efficiency ratings, degradation rates, and warranty coverage when comparing solar panels to ensure you’re choosing a panel designed to last.
2. Your Roof and Panels Depend on a Strong Racking System
The racking system that holds your panels in place may not be the most discussed component of your solar panel system, but it plays a critical role in the longevity of your installation. A poor-quality racking system can lead to loose/misaligned panels, roof damage, and even total system failure in extreme weather conditions.
Many installers cut costs by using cheaper racking materials, but this often leads to serious structural damage over time. At Empire Solar, we prefer using SunStack and IronRidge racking systems, both of which are renowned for their durability, strength, and roof-friendly components. Unlike many racking systems that risk voiding your roof’s warranty, SunStack and IronRidge products are specifically designed to secure your panels without compromising your existing roof warranty.
Both SunStack and IronRidge provide industry-leading 25-year warranties, ensuring long-term protection for your investment. A properly installed, high-quality racking system means little to no maintenance and longer-lasting performance, something you won’t get with bargain-priced systems.
Tip: Before choosing an installer, ask what racking brand and mounting techniques they use and how it affects your roof’s warranty to ensure your solar investment is built to last.
3. The Inverter is the Brain of Your System – Make the Right Choice
Think of the inverter as the brains of your solar installation. The inverter is responsible for converting the electricity from your panels into power for your home. Yet, it is one of the most commonly overlooked components when homeowners are comparing solar quotes.
Many budget solar installers cut corners by using outdated string inverters, which come with a have a major flaw – a single point of failure. If the inverter fails, your entire system shuts down. Plus, shaded panels can drastically reduce the performance of an entire array of panels.
Once again this is where we feel Empire Solar Solutions’ selection of products and materials outshines the competition (pun intended). We believe Enphase microinverters or the latest SolarEdge string inverters paired with power optimizers are the best solution for most solar installations. Microinverters and power optimizers are installed on each individual panel. This allows for optimal performance and panel-level monitoring. If one panel is shaded or stops working, the rest of your system will continue to operate as intended.
Tip: Ask your installer if your system will include microinverters or string inverters, and consider how each option fits your long-term energy goals.
4. Your Warranty Protects Your Investment – Don’t Overlook It
A solar system is a long-term investment, which means the quality of the equipment and the warranty that backs it are critical considerations. Many low-cost solar providers offer attractive upfront pricing but don’t prioritize warranty coverage. This can lead to homeowners finding themselves stuck with failing panels or inverters and no support from their installer.
Empire Solar provides peace of mind by offering products with industry-leading warranties, including:
- REC Alpha Pure panels with a 25-year performance guarantee
- Jinko panels with a 30-year linear power warranty, guaranteeing at least 88% of their original output after 30 years
- Enphase microinverters with a 25-year warranty
- SolarEdge inverters and power optimizers with a 25-year warranty for maximum efficiency and reliability
- SunStack and IronRidge racking systems, built to last and designed to protect your roof, with a 25-year warranty.
Choosing quality equipment with robust warranties ensures that your investment is protected for decades, not just a few years.
Tip: Always review the warranty coverage for panels, inverters, and racking before signing any agreement. Ask for spec sheets for all the equipment your solar installer plans to use.
5. An Old or Failing Roof Can Lead to Unexpected Costs – Check Before Installing Solar
One of the biggest oversights homeowners make by choosing a low-cost solar installer is ignoring the condition of their roof. Many budget solar companies won’t assess your roof’s lifespan before installing panels, leaving you with expensive problems down the road.
Why roof age matters for solar
Since solar panels last 25+ years, your roof should be in good condition before installation. If your roof needs replacing within the next 5-10 years, you’ll face the expensive and avoidable process of removing and reinstalling your solar panels just to replace your roof.
The risks of installing solar on an old roof:
- Leaks & Structural Damage: A weak roof may not handle the weight of solar panels properly, leading to potential damage.
- Higher Long-Term Costs: Removing and reinstalling panels can cost thousands of dollars if done after installation.
- Voided Roof Warranty: Many roofing manufacturers void warranties if solar panels are installed on aging or compromised shingles.
- Shortened Solar Payback Period: If you must remove panels early, you delay your return on investment, reducing your overall savings.
How quality installers protect your roof
Unlike low-cost companies that rush to install panels without assessing the roof, reputable installers like Empire Solar, conduct a full roof evaluation during your initial home inspection. If your roof is near the end of its lifespan, we offer in-house re-roofing services to ensure your home is solar-ready.
Tip: Before installing solar, check the age and condition of your roof. If it’s more than 10-15 years old, consider replacing it first to avoid the costly hassle of removing and reinstalling.
The Real Cost of Choosing the Wrong Solar Installer
Going solar is an investment and, and while low-ball pricing might seem attractive at first, the long-term costs of poor-quality equipment and subpar installation can quickly add up. Reduced energy production, expensive repairs, and warranty issues can all eat away at the initial savings, leaving you frustrated and financially strained.
By choosing Empire Solar, you’re not just investing in solar panels, you’re investing in a high-quality system that provides reliable performance, long-term savings, and peace of mind.
Choose Quality. Choose Empire Solar.
If you’re considering going solar, don’t fall for low-ball pricing that could cost you more in the long run. At Empire Solar, we offer competitive pricing while using the highest quality equipment REC Alpha Pure panels, SunStack racking, and Enphase microinverters to give you the best value and performance for your investment.
