The lifespan of your solar panels can vary depending on various factors. It includes how they were installed, your environment, and the quality of the panels you purchased.
Good quality panels will last 25 years or more before they begin to degrade. It is a natural process that occurs with most technologies.
How Long Will My Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels are an excellent way to generate clean energy and save money on your power bill, but like any other investment, they have a lifespan. Unfortunately, it means you may not be able to rely on them for as long as you like, and if your system is producing less than it should be, you’ll want to look into replacement sooner rather than later.
Luckily, there are several things you can do to extend your solar panel lifespan. These include working with a professional installer and caring for them like any other important home system. A solar panel has a 25-year lifetime on average. That aligns with the industry standard for manufacturing warranties and should ensure you get a long time from your investment.
How Long Will My Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels are a cost-effective and long-term solution for energy production since they may last for decades. The only thing that may shorten their lifespan is harsh weather conditions. Extreme heat and prolonged exposure to high winds can reduce the power production of a panel, compromising its efficiency. Likewise, hail and snow can cause microcracks in a panel’s surface, eventually breaking it.
Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by working with a reliable solar company. They can monitor the performance of your system regularly and take action if needed. Typically, solar panel manufacturers guarantee 90% of a panel’s power output for the first ten years and 80% of its production for the remaining 20 years. However, over time, solar panels’ power production degrades slowly — this is called degradation.
How Long Will My Solar Panels Degrade?
The lifespan of your solar panels is a factor that many homeowners consider when choosing their energy source. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the rate at which your solar panels degrade so that you can plan accordingly. Your environment can also affect your solar panel’s lifespan. For example, extreme temperatures and hail damage can weaken a panel’s ability to convert sunlight into energy.
These conditions can lead to microcracks that eventually break the panels from within. Keeping your panels clear of debris and snow can also help reduce the likelihood of microcracks and increase the life expectancy of your solar panel system. If your solar panels are losing efficiency and power production, it may be time to replace them. Fortunately, most solar panel manufacturers offer warranties that cover any weather-related damage.
How Long Will My Solar Panels Need Maintenance?
You may follow various maintenance procedures to increase the solar panels’ lifespan. These include cleaning and conducting an annual inspection. The most common form of solar panel maintenance involves a thorough wash. Depending on your panel type, this can be done weekly or monthly.
Cleanliness is important because it helps the solar cells absorb more sunlight. Unfortunately, dirt, pollen, leaves, and bird droppings all build up over time and can reduce the performance of your solar panels. Most homeowners hire an experienced professional to conduct these cleanings and inspections. Having a qualified person to do the work can reduce maintenance costs and increase your home’s energy production.
