Solar panels are a big investment for many businesses and homes, and it’s important to keep that investment safe. Choosing the right solar panel warranty is one way to make sure that your solar panels are safe. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about solar panel warranties to help you make an informed decision.
What is a solar panel warranty?
A solar panel warranty is a promise that your solar panel system will work well for a certain amount of time at a certain level of performance. There are two types of warranties that come with solar panels: product warranties and performance warranties.
Product Warranties
Most product warranties cover problems with the materials and the way the product was made for a certain amount of time. This warranty usually lasts between 10 and 25 years, depending on the manufacturer. During this time, if your solar panel system breaks down because of a defect, the manufacturer will fix or replace the panels for free.
Performance Warranties
Performance warranties, also known as power warranties, guarantee the output of the solar panels. These warranties usually last between 25 and 30 years and guarantee that the panels will produce a certain amount of electricity during that time. If the panels don’t make the amount of electricity that was promised, the company that made them will fix or replace them.
What Is Covered by a Solar Panel Warranty?
Most warranties for solar panels cover problems with the materials and the way they were made. Some warranties may also cover problems with how well the panels work. Here are some of the most common issues that are covered by solar panel warranties:
Hotspots: Hotspots are areas on the solar panel where the cells are producing less electricity than the rest of the panel. Hotspots can cause damage to the cells and reduce the overall efficiency of the panel.
Delamination: When the layers of a solar panel start to come apart, this is called delamination. This can cause the panel to work less well.
Leaks: If there is a leak in the solar panel, water can get inside and cause damage to the cells, reducing the overall efficiency of the panel.
Cracks: If the solar panel is cracked, it can cause a loss of efficiency and reduce the overall output of the panel.
Burnout: Burnout occurs when the solar cells become too hot and start to break down, which can cause a loss of efficiency and reduce the overall output of the panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do solar panel warranties typically last?
A: Solar panel warranties typically last between 10-25 years for product warranties and 25-30 years for performance warranties.
Q: What is covered under a solar panel warranty?
A: Solar panel warranties typically cover defects in materials and workmanship, as well as issues related to the performance of the panels.
Q: What happens if my solar panels fail during the warranty period?
A: If your solar panels break because of a defect while they are still under warranty, the manufacturer will fix or replace them for free.
Q: What should I look for in a solar panel warranty?
A: When choosing a solar panel warranty, you should look for one that covers both product defects and performance issues, and has a reasonable length of time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right solar panel warranty is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring your solar panel system operates at peak performance. When choosing a warranty, make sure to look for a warranty that covers both product defects and performance issues, and has a reasonable length of time. With this guide, you should know more about solar panel warranties and be able to make a good choice. With this guide, you should have a better understanding of solar panel warranties and be able to make an informed decision.
