Thinking about going solar? You’re not alone. Thousands of Southern California homeowners are switching to clean energy and reaping the benefits of lower utility bills, increased home value, and energy independence. But here’s the truth most solar companies won’t tell you: even a great solar system can turn into a costly mistake if it’s not done right.
At OC Solar, we’ve seen it all, from mismatched system sizes to shady installers cutting corners. That’s why we’re breaking down the top 5 mistakes homeowners make when going solar and how to avoid them so your investment actually pays off.
1. Choosing the Cheapest Solar Quote Without Comparing Value
Solar can be a big investment, so it’s tempting to go with the lowest quote you find. But many homeowners don’t realize that not all solar systems are created equal.
That bargain-basement price often comes at a cost: cheap solar panels with lower efficiency, minimal warranties, poor installation practices, or outdated technology. Over time, these compromises can result in lower energy production, more maintenance issues, and reduced savings.
What to do instead: Don’t base your decision solely on price. Look closely at what each quote includesespecially panel brand, inverter quality, labor warranties, and monitoring systems. A slightly higher upfront cost can lead to greater long-term value when installed by a reputable company like OC Solar.
2. Not Understanding Your Home’s Energy Usage
A common mistake homeowners make is assuming their system size without evaluating their actual energy habits. An improperly sized system can either underperform or cost more than necessary.
Undersized systems won’t eliminate your electric bill. Oversized systems will have a higher upfront cost, leading to a lower return on investment.
What to do instead: Pull your electric bills from the past 12 months and review your kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage. A reliable solar installer will analyze your energy patterns, ask about any upcoming lifestyle changes (like buying an EV or adding a pool), and recommend a right-sized system that meets your needs now and in the future.
3. Ignoring Roof Condition and Layout
Your roof is more than just a place to mount panels, it directly affects how much sunlight your system can capture. A roof that’s old, shaded, or improperly pitched can significantly reduce solar performance.
Worse, installing solar on a damaged or aging roof can lead to leaks, structural issues, or costly repairs down the line. Taking care of roof repairs or replacements beforehand not only protects your home, but can also save you money in the long run by preventing the need to remove and reinstall your solar panels later.
What to do instead: Before installation, have your roof evaluated for both structural integrity and solar compatibility. If your roof will need repairs or replacement within the next 5–10 years, it’s smart to address that before going solar. Also, ask your installer to consider sun exposure, roof tilt, and orientation to ensure optimal panel placement. South-facing roofs are typically best in Orange County, but modern design tools can maximize production on east- and west-facing slopes too.
4. Overlooking Local Incentives, Tax Credits, and Net Metering
Many homeowners know about the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), which covers 30% of system costs, but completely miss out on local and utility-based incentives that can save thousands more. Cities like Anaheim and Rancho Cucamonga help homeowners out by waiving fees or giving fiscal incentives.
Additionally, failing to understand your local net metering policies could affect how much you’re credited for sending excess energy back to the grid.
What to do instead: Work with a company familiar with your area. OC Solar is very familiar with local utilities all over SoCal. From San Diego to Palm Springs to Los Angeles to Fresno, we’ve got you covered! We help you uncover every possible rebate, credit, and incentive available to you in Southern California and guide you through utility paperwork so you can maximize savings and minimize stress.
WARNING: The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit ends December 31, 2025. Your system needs to be installed by then to claim the credit. ACT NOW
5. Skipping Warranties, Monitoring, and Long-Term Support
Some homeowners make the mistake of treating solar like a “set-it-and-forget-it” system. But like any long-term investment, solar systems need support, especially if something goes wrong.
If your installer disappears, your panels underperform, or your inverter fails, you could be left in the dark (literally and financially). Fortunately, OC Solar doesn’t just install new systems, we also offer maintenance, service, and monitoring for existing solar installations, even if another company installed them. Whether your system needs troubleshooting, inverter replacement, or a full performance checkup, we’re here to help you get it back on track.
What to do instead: Choose a solar provider who backs their work. Look for 25-year warranties on panels and inverters, a solid workmanship warranty, and a clear plan for system monitoring and maintenance. OC Solar offers real-time monitoring tools and ongoing support so you’re never left guessing how your system is performing.
Ready to Go Solar the Right Way?
Solar doesn’t have to be complicated. Avoiding these five mistakes can save you thousands in the long run and make your switch to solar smooth, smart, and stress-free.
At OC Solar, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter installs. We take the time to understand your goals, your energy needs, and your property so you get a system that performs beautifully for decades to come. Contact us today for your free solar estimate!