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Knowledge Is “Solar” Power: Solar Panel Scams To Avoid In 2025

Hey, Central Florida! Did you know that scams are on the rise in the solar industry? Unfortunately, it’s something that we have been noticing for a while. That’s why our team at Solar Bear Orlando is here to help!

Today, we are sharing some common scams to watch out for as you navigate the world of solar installations. Keep reading to learn what to look out for.

#1. Unrealistic Promises

Be on the lookout for companies that guarantee immediate savings or energy independence from the utility company overnight. While solar energy can reduce your electric bill over time, it is important not to be lured in by these kinds of unrealistic promises.

A reputable installation company like Solar Bear Orlando will be transparent about the potential savings and timeline that you can expect for these savings based on your home and energy usage.

#2. Low-Quality Equipment

Also, be wary of companies that are offering solar panels and equipment at low prices that seem too good to be true. Always invest in high-quality panels built by trusted manufacturers. We always recommend checking for reviews before making a purchase. But when you work with our team, you won’t have to worry about that, because we only deal with reputable solar panel manufacturers.

#3. Pressure Tactics

If a solar company is pressuring you to sign a contract on the spot, that is a big red flag. A trustworthy solar company will allow you to take your time and review your options and won’t pressure you into making a split-second decision on such an important investment.

#4. Hidden Fees

We always recommend reading the fine print. Some solar companies will tack on hidden fees that can end up costing you more in the long run. These fees can be for anything from installation costs and service fees to maintenance agreements.

Make sure you know the exact costs of your installation and what you are signing off on.

#5. Unlicensed Installers

You don’t have to worry about this one with our team at Solar Bear Orlando, but we recommend checking to see if your solar company has the proper licensing and certifications. This ensures that they will install your system according to local regulations and up to code.

#6. Lack of Warranty or Support

A robust warranty is the trademark of a trustworthy solar company. Make sure you ask about any warranty coverage for both the panels and the installation before you sign the contract. This can save you from dealing with costly repairs in the future.

Read More > What Will Solar Look Like Under the Trump Administration?

Stay Sunny with Solar Bear Orlando

Knowledge is indeed power, especially when it comes to solar energy. By being aware of what scams are out there, you can protect yourself from falling prey to scammers and make the best investment for your Central Florida home.

At Solar Bear Orlando, we are here to help you invest in solar power with confidence. If you have any questions or need guidance along the way, feel free to reach out to us at (727) 353-3886. We are always happy to help!

2025 Commercial Solar Incentives For Floridians

If you’re a business owner in Central Florida and are interested in going solar, you’ll be happy to know that there are some commercial solar incentives available for you to take advantage of.

Solar energy is not just a sustainable choice for your business, but can be a smart financial decision, especially if you take advantage of the incentives that our team at Solar Bear Orlando covers below.

Incentives for Commercial Businesses

The main incentive available for businesses that want to install solar panels is the Residential Clean Energy Credit, formally known as the Federal Solar Tax Credit. This credit allows companies to deduct 30% of the solar system’s cost from their federal income tax liability at the end of the year.

This credit will cover the entire cost of the solar panels, inverters, and battery storage, which can offer considerable savings. The best part? There is no cap on the value of the credit, and there are no income limits either.

To claim the credit, businesses will need to fill out IRS Form 5695 when they file their taxes for the year. And the credit will roll over to the next year if you don’t have tax liability in the year that you install the system, so it can be claimed the following year.

Also, Florida offers a state sales tax exemption on solar equipment and a 100% property tax exemption, and an 80% tax abatement for non-residential photovoltaic installations.

Note: This credit is 30% until 2032, and will decrease to 22% in 2033 and 2034.

Commercial Net Metering

Your business may also be eligible for net metering, where it can be credited for the electricity that your system generates and feeds back into the grid. Florida’s current net metering rules were put in place in 2008 and apply to customers who utilize these four utility companies:

• Florida Power & Light (FPL)
• Duke Energy Florida
• Tampa Electric Company (TECO)
• Florida Public Utilities Corporation

If you plan to sign up for net metering, we always recommend reaching out to your utility company to get information about rates, connection, and pertinent information that you will need to know about net metering.

Read More > How is Net Metering Calculated in Orlando?

Choose Solar for Your Business in 2025

If you want to learn more about how these incentives can benefit your business or if you have any questions about how to install a solar array at your Central Florida commercial property, reach out to our friendly team at Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 353-3886.

Let’s make 2025 the year your business shines bright with solar power!

Weather & Solar Panel Performance: 4 Considerations For Summer Showers

Solar panels work best on a bright sunny day. That should mean smooth sailing all summer, right? Maybe for most other states, but Florida is a special place. We get summer showers in Orlando, which can come with its fair share of problems. Find out how summer showers can impact your solar panel’s performance before reaching out to Solar Bear Orlando for solar services you can count on!

Why Summer Showers Are a Big Deal For Solar Panels

Summer showers aren’t all bad for solar panels, but they might not be the most ideal, either. On the bright side, rain spells in Orlando can be nature’s way of giving your solar panels a good wash for a low-effort sparkle and shine. On the downside, cloudy skies mean no solar energy for the day. It’s a double-edged sword that can be taken care of with the right precautions.

The Future Is Looking Promising Although their standardization in the general market is still being worked on as we speak, hybrid solar panels are currently in development and can mark the future of residential solar energy. Hybrid solar panels are intended to work in the sun and rain, an invaluable trait for Florida homeowners. Until then, we’ll help you maintain your current solar panel system!

1. Clean Your Solar Panels. It’s the Best Thing You Can Do

You might have heard or even experienced yourself that dirty solar panels produce less solar. While summer showers can give your panels a quick rinse, some areas in Orlando might not get the full brunt of rain. You might have to do a bit of deep cleaning yourself to ensure that your solar panels are sparkly clean and ready to soak in the sun once the sky clears up.

2. Be Gentle With Your Solar Panels to Combat Rain

It’s not enough to simply clean your solar panels. You have to clean them the right way. Harsh chemicals and other cleaning solutions may do more harm than good to your solar panel’s surface, wearing them out faster than their intended lifespan. Pressure washing is also a no-go as the force of the stream is too intense for any solar panel to handle. Ask your trusted solar experts in Orlando for tips on the best ways to gently clean your solar panels for the best results.

3. Be Prepared For Cloudy Weather With a Reliable Solar Battery

You might not be able to collect as much solar energy during summer showers, but you can still utilize solar energy with the right setup. By adding a solar battery storage system to your solar panel system in Orlando, you can keep some solar energy off to the side to use for a rainy day. We mean that in the literal sense.

4. Keep An Eye On It

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is be proactive in spotting signs of potential issues in your solar panel system. In between summer showers is the best time to opt for an inspection of your solar panels so the problem can be fixed before extreme weather takes its toll. It’s best not to wait too long between inspections, as pest activity can quickly ruin your setup.

Read more > Can Pest Prevention Help Improve Solar Power Efficiency?

Need Solar Panel Maintenance? Solar Bear Orlando Is the Place to Call!

We want you to have the best experience with your solar panel system, which is why you can always count on Solar Bear Orlando for top-notch solar services near you! Contact us today at (727) 353-3886 to get a free estimate on your next service and to schedule a consultation.

Solar Panels as a Retirement Investment: 5 Considerations

When people talk about planning for their golden years, they usually start with 401(k)s, IRAs, or real estate. But here’s something more homeowners are waking up to—solar panels should play a role in your retirement plan.

In Tampa, where the sun’s working overtime most days, investing in solar can stretch your dollars and simplify your bills. And when you’re living on a fixed income, predictability isn’t just nice—it’s true peace of mind. So, is going solar a smart move for retirement? It is, and here’s why.

1. Financial Benefits

Retirement is about working less and enjoying more. Solar helps with that.

• Reduce (or Eliminate) Electric Bills: Your solar panels generate power from the sun, slashing or eliminating what you owe to the utility company.
• Avoid Rising Utility Rates: Electricity costs keep climbing. Solar lets you lock in your energy at a fixed cost—zero.
• Boost Your Home’s Value: According to national studies, homes with solar sell faster and for more. That’s equity you can tap into.
• Earn Extra Income: In some areas, net metering lets you sell unused energy back to the grid. That’s right—your roof could start writing checks.
• Take Advantage of Tax Breaks: The 30% federal solar tax credit is still in effect. That’s a huge chunk of change back in your pocket.

If you’re thinking long-term (and retirees usually are), solar is one of the few home upgrades that actually pays you back.

2. Cost and Financing

Yes, solar systems cost money. But let’s not panic—it’s surprisingly affordable.

• Expect to pay up to $30,000 upfront, depending on your system’s size and efficiency.
• Don’t want to drop that in cash? You don’t have to. Solar loans and HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit) can spread the cost over time.
  • HELOCs might offer lower interest, but they’re variable.
  • Solar loans are fixed-rate and predictable—perfect for retirees.
• Most homeowners see a payback period of 7–12 years, after which you’re just collecting savings.

3. Performance and Maintenance

One of the best parts of solar? It’s mostly set-it-and-forget-it. Here’s what you can expect:

• Panels last 25–30 years—many with warranties that last just as long.
• Maintenance is minimal. A quick rinse now and then keeps them in top shape.
• Warranties typically cover both product and performance, though it’s worth double-checking what’s included.

4. Your Home’s Condition

Not every roof is ready for solar. But many are close.

• Is your roof in good shape? If not, consider replacing it before installing panels.
• Watch out for shade from trees or nearby buildings. More sun = more savings.
• Net metering in Tampa can turn extra power into real financial returns—check what your local utility offers.
• Most homeowners insurance policies will cover solar, but it’s worth a quick call to confirm.

If your house is already retirement-ready, shouldn’t your roof be, too?

5. Control, Stability, and Freedom

This is the real reason more retirees are going solar. You’ve worked for decades. Solar helps make those years ahead simpler, cleaner, and less expensive.

• No more anxiety about unpredictable energy bills.
• Protection from grid outages.
• The satisfaction of energy independence (trust us—it feels great).

Solar Can Be a Power Move for Your Retirement Plan—Ask Us How

Thinking of going solar in retirement? You’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out solo. Reach out to Solar Bear of Tampa and let’s talk through the numbers, options, and savings. It’s your home and your future, so why not let sunshine work for you? Call us today at (727) 353-3886 and discover how to fit solar energy into your retirement plan!