The longer your panels remain active, the more electricity they produce, which in turn will help you save money. Most solar panels should remain in operation for about 25 years before they start to degrade.
Even though your panels have started to degrade, they can still convert sunlight into energy. This is not a major issue, and it’s likely that you should replace them in the near future.
In addition to the manufacturer’s warranty on solar panels, some companies also offer shorter service contracts for the equipment that comes with them. This helps cover the damage that can occur due to weather conditions. On the other hand, a solar panel’s racking system is separate from the warranties on solar panels.
The lifespan of solar panels’ inverters generally ranges from 10 to 15 years. This is due to how hard these devices work to convert the energy that they produce into usable electricity. Usually, a replacement cost of around $1,000 to $2,000 is charged for these components.
Which Solar Panels Last Longest?
The quality of the product is another important factor that affects how long a solar panel will last. There are three main types of solar panels that are available on the market: Tier One, Tier Two, and Tier Three. According to the industry, Tier One solar panel manufacturers have been manufacturing these types of devices for several years and are known for their high quality and service.
Compared to other types of solar panels, the output of Tier One devices tends to be higher after 25 years. Also, unlike their counterparts from Tier Two and Three, they don’t experience degradation every year. Nonetheless, the upfront cost of Tier One panels typically ranges from 10% to 30%, and they can be recouped in the long run.
A study conducted by NREL revealed that the average rate of degradation of all types of solar panels is about 0.50%. This means that, after 25 years, your panels should still produce around 89% of their original output.
Factors That Affect Solar Panel Lifespans
Although certain factors, like weather conditions and the climate, can affect the longevity of a solar panel, there are still various ways that you can increase its lifespan.
Quality
The quality of your panels is also a significant factor that affects how long your panels will last. Before you make a decision, it’s important to look into the manufacturer’s warranty. This is because if the company provides a long-term service contract, it’s a good sign that they’re committed to providing high-quality products.
Installation
Getting your panels installed by an experienced installer can help you feel that they’ll last for a long time. This is because improper wiring and installation could cause your panels to degrade faster. One of the most reputable solar companies will also provide regular maintenance checks to make certain that the system is working properly.
Climate
Your panels’ performance and lifespan are affected by the climate conditions that you install them in. This is why it’s important to keep in mind that weather conditions can affect their longevity.
The hotter you live in, the more likely your panels will degrade. The materials of solar panels will break down faster in hotter temperatures compared to when they’re exposed to cold air. In addition to this, other weather factors such as hail and humidity can also affect the performance of your panels.
Maintenance
One of the main reasons why people choose solar panels is their low-maintenance nature. However, if you want to extend their lifespan, it’s important that you regularly clean and maintain them. For instance, if you have a lot of debris that collects on your panels, it can prevent them from accessing the sun and prevent them from working properly.
How to Make Your Solar Panels Last Longer
In order to maximize the return on your investment, you should ensure that solar panels can last for as long as possible, with some simple steps to follow.
Cleaning and Upkeep Of Your Solar Panels
The type of cleaner that you use will help your panels absorb more sunlight and perform better. Depending on where you live, you should only clean them once a month or weekly.
Regular Solar Panel Maintenance and Servicing
Things that are well-maintained can last longer than those that are not. In the case of solar panels, they are more susceptible to degradation if they are not regularly cleaned.
Reputable Solar Installers and High-Quality Equipment
An experienced solar installer can also help you determine the ideal location for your panels. He or she will take into account various factors such as your roof pitch and direction, as well as the potential threats that could affect their performance.
When it comes to the installation of your panels, it’s also important that you consider the impact of their racking system. This component can help prevent damage caused by elements such as strong winds and snow loads. The installer can then provide you with the best possible recommendations regarding your panels’ placement.
Standard Warranties & Guarantees on Solar Panels
Before you commit to investing in a solar energy system, it’s important that you consider the various guarantees and warranties that are available. These warranties can help you know that the panels you’re considering will perform well and produce the amount of electricity that you expect.
Most people who own solar panels are entitled to a standard warranty, which provides coverage for any issues that they may encounter during the lifetime of their system. However, some manufacturers offer extended warranties, which can last for up to 25 years.
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