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How Long Is The Typical Solar Payback Period In Orlando?

When homeowners decide to install solar, the question that we often get is “How long is the payback period?” This is a valid question as solar installations can be a large investment depending on the size of the solar array.

Today, our team at Solar Bear Orlando shares some insight into this question to help you make the best decision for your Orlando home.

What is the Solar Payback Period?

First, let’s discuss what the solar payback period actually is. Essentially, it is the amount of time that it takes for your solar installation to pay for itself through savings on your monthly energy bills and possible net metering.

Factors That Impact the Solar Payback Period

Our abundant sunshine in Florida allows solar installs to have a much faster return on investment (ROI) than many other states. That said, the solar payback period is largely impacted by the following:

• The amount of electricity your home uses
• How many solar panels in your array
• The total cost of the system
• If you qualify for any solar incentives
• If you use solar batteries or net metering

Most of our customers qualify for some kind of solar incentive, which can have a big impact on the cost of the solar array. By far the biggest factor to consider when trying to calculate the solar payback period is how much you pay for the solar system overall and how much your costs are offset by the installation.

Typical Solar Payback Period in Orlando

On average, the typical solar payback period in Orlando is around 7-8 years, depending on the system size and incentives taken advantage of.

For example, if you install a 5-kilowatt solar system, you could be looking at a cost between $11,000 and $14,000. With the government’s solar tax credit, you could save 30% on the installation cost alone. And that doesn’t include any other solar incentives that you may be entitled to!

Net Metering

Net metering allows customers to connect solar panel systems to the electrical grid and receive credit or payment for the excess energy that they produce. This is often applied to their next month’s bill, which can offset costs tremendously.

Solar Batteries

Solar batteries can help shorten the overall solar payback period by storing excess energy that is generated to use during peak electricity periods like the evenings. This allows homeowners to avoid paying extra costs for grid-tied power, which can lead to a much faster return on investment. 

Related Reading > Florida’s Average kWh Per Day: How Your Home Compares

Ready to Go Solar?

As you can see, the solar payback period in Orlando is influenced by many factors including the size of your solar array, the amount of electricity your home uses, qualification for solar incentives, and if you take part in net metering or use solar batteries.

If you’re ready to install solar and are unsure of what your solar payback period may be, reach out to our team at Solar Bear Orlando and we will generate a comprehensive quote that will help you make the best decision for your Orlando home. Get started today by calling (727) 471-7442!

Solar Myths & Scams to Avoid in 2025

Solar power: a revolution in energy or just another trend? For some, it’s a no-brainer. For others, it’s a confusing tangle of misinformation and sneaky scams. So, let’s clear the air. If you’re thinking about going solar in 2025, here’s your guide to avoiding myths that mislead and scams that steal.

Myth: Solar Panels Don’t Work on Cloudy Days

Here’s the big one. Yes, solar panels work when the sky isn’t crystal blue. Think of it like your smartphone screen on low brightness—it’s not as intense, but it’s still on. Germany, one of the cloudiest countries in Europe, leads the world in solar power production. So, unless you live in perpetual darkness, you’re good.

Scam: The “Free Solar Panels” Pitch

Spoiler alert: nothing is free. If someone offers you “free” solar panels, they’re probably trying to lock you into a shady lease with ballooning payments. Here’s the deal: reputable solar companies explain financing options—like loans or leasing—upfront, without vague promises or fine print tricks. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Myth: Solar Panels Will Ruin My Roof

Not unless you let amateurs handle it. Properly installed solar panels don’t just spare your roof—they can protect it. They act as a shield, absorbing heat and reducing wear and tear. However, sketchy installers can cause issues. Always go with a licensed, experienced professional (hello, Solar Bear of Tampa). Your roof will thank you.

Scam: “Limited-Time” Tax Credit Deals

Here’s the truth: tax credits exist, but they’re not a flash sale.

The federal solar tax credit is a real thing. In 2025, you can still claim 30% of your system’s cost on your taxes. But if a salesperson pressures you with lines like, “You have to act now or lose your credit forever,” walk away. They’re using scare tactics to close a deal fast.

Myth: Solar Panels Require Constant Maintenance

This one’s pure fiction—solar panels are built to last, with minimal maintenance. Most systems only need an occasional rinse to clear dirt or leaves. They don’t have moving parts, which means fewer chances for something to break. If your system needs constant care, the problem might be with the installer, not the panels.

Scam: Inflated Savings Promises

Beware the “save 80% on your bill overnight” spiel. Solar does reduce energy costs, but the exact savings depend on your energy usage, location, and system size. Any company throwing out wild claims is probably bending the numbers. A trustworthy installer will give you a customized savings estimate—based on facts, not fantasy.

Avoid the Scams—Choose Tampa’s Trusted Solar Provider

Solar power is one of the smartest investments you can make. But like any industry, it has its share of myths and traps. So, do your homework. Partner with a trusted company. And stay skeptical of anything that sounds too good to be true.

At Solar Bear of Tampa, we make solar simple and scam-free. Ready to see what solar can do for you? Call us today at (727) 471-7442—we’ve got your back!

Can Solar Make My Roof Leak?

So, you’ve decided to go solar? That’s awesome! We are happy to have you in the club! While you may be excited to get started, you likely have some questions, such as one of our most frequently asked questions, “Can solar make my roof leak?”

This is a great question, and we will answer it in our guide below. Follow our team at Solar Bear Orlando as we share the ins and outs of roof leaks and solar. Let’s go!

Solar Panels & Leaking Roofs

While a solar installation won’t cause a roof leak just because it was installed, if the installation was poorly executed, leaks could occur due to penetration into the roof where the panel is mounted. This is why it is so important to choose a skilled installation company to ensure that your system is up to standard.

Note: Most leaks occur within the first year of installation if there was an issue with the installation process.

Common Types of Roof Damage

Damage caused by roof panels can include:

• Broken tiles
• Damaged shingles
• Structural problems
• Fire hazards from improper wiring

That said, generally, the installation of solar panels can extend the life of your roof by protecting it from inclement weather and elements like sun, rain, wind, and hail. Panels act like a barrier, ultimately reducing the wear and tear on your roof, and keeping it in better condition over time.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

Proper Installation Is Important

As we stated above, the best way to prevent leaks is to hire a qualified solar installation company like Solar Bear Orlando which knows how to properly install solar panels to your roof without causing any leaks in the process.

Roof Condition Matters

Remember, if your roof is already old or damaged, installing solar panels could make any existing issues worse. This is why we always assess the condition of your roof before installing anything. Plus, we recommend having routine inspections and maintenance completed to help protect your roof.

Other Causes of Roof Damage

While improperly installed solar could be the cause of roof damage, there are often other culprits of leaks and damage including:

Small Animals & Birds

Small animals like squirrels and birds can make nests under your solar panel systems, which can cause extensive damage, wear and tear, and leakage. To avoid this, we often install wiring mesh that guards the underside of your panels against any of these cute, yet pesky critters.

Water Flow & Debris

Solar panels can leak due to standing water on the roof or debris from trees causing damage to your roof. Most solar racking systems are designed to allow the proper flow of water around the panels, if they were improperly installed, or the wrong size or shape, this could cause standing water damage to your roof. 

But don’t worry, our professionals at Solar Bear Orlando ensure that our installations are completed with water flow in mind, which is important during the rainy season here in Orlando!

Read More > Roof Repairs & Solar Panels: 5 Considerations

Choose Solar Bear Orlando

Ready to install solar? You’re in the right place! Our professional and skilled team at Solar Bear Orlando is just a call away. We will ensure that your system is installed as seamlessly as possible, without any nuisances like leaks cropping up down the line.

Get your hassle-free quote from our team today by calling (727) 471-7442 or filling out our online form and one of our sales team members will reach out shortly.

What Are the Different Payment Options for Solar?

Investing in solar energy is a power move. It’s also a long-term strategy for saving money and reducing your carbon footprint. But before you start picturing those sleek panels on your roof, there’s one big question to answer: How do you pay for solar? Luckily, it doesn’t have to mean draining your savings account. With a range of payment options available, there’s a solution to fit almost any budget.

Paying Outright

Ready to own your system outright from day one? Paying upfront is the simplest path to solar. It might feel like a big bite at first, but here’s the payoff: No monthly payments. No interest rates. Just you and your panels, working hard to lower your energy bill.

Plus, owning your system outright means you qualify for federal tax credits—currently up to 30% of the system cost. It’s like Uncle Sam saying, “Great move.” This option is best for those who have the cash on hand or want to make the most of their savings. No financing hoops. No waiting. Just pure solar power.

Financing

Not ready to drop a chunk of change all at once? Financing lets you spread the cost over time. Think of it like buying a car: You pay monthly, often at a fixed rate, until the system is yours.

Many lenders offer solar-specific loans with competitive rates, making it easier than ever to bring solar into your life without breaking the bank. Bonus? You still get to claim those juicy tax credits, just like if you paid upfront.

Some financing plans even offer $0 down options, meaning you could start saving on your energy bill before your first payment is due. Talk about instant gratification.

Leasing or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

Leasing is the no-strings-attached approach to solar. Instead of owning the system, you essentially “rent” it. The solar company installs the panels, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use the energy they produce.

With a PPA, it’s similar—but instead of a flat rate, you pay for the energy you use at a discounted price compared to your utility rates. While you won’t get the tax credits or long-term savings of ownership, leasing and PPAs make solar accessible for those who want the benefits without the upfront costs or long-term responsibility. It’s solar, on your terms.

Don’t Forget! There’s Also Incentives

No matter how you pay for solar, don’t overlook the perks. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is the big one, letting you deduct 30% of the system’s cost from your federal taxes.

In Florida, you can also enjoy property tax exemptions on your solar installation, meaning your home’s increased value won’t increase your tax bill. And let’s not forget the potential savings from net metering, where you can earn credits for sending excess energy back to the grid.

What’s the Right Option for You?

That depends. Are you a long-term thinker ready to own your energy future? Or are you looking for a lower upfront cost with manageable monthly payments? Whatever your style, the good news is that solar is more accessible than ever. And the even better news? Solar Bear of Tampa helps you understand the options and finds the perfect fit for your home and budget.

It’s time to start saving while making the world a little greener! Call us today at (727) 471-7442 and let’s talk about making the switch to solar.