What’s the Lifespan of Solar Panels?

Solar panels allow homeowners to produce energy for many years and easily pay for themselves in six to seven years for the average home in Arizona. And most solar panel manufacturers offer warranties from 25 to 30 years with a minimum of 80% to 85% efficiency rating.

A study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory concluded that the average degradation rate (efficiency rating or solar output) is 89% after 25 years. Even though solar panels produce less energy after year 25, the panels will continue converting the sun’s energy into usable solar power. You’ll know when it’s time to replace your solar panels when they no longer produce enough power to cover your monthly electricity bill.

The vast majority of solar panels have a 10-year workmanship warranty which covers components like the frame and junction box for repair or replacement. The hardware that makes up a solar panel system, such as the inverter, racking system, and solar batteries, have a greater chance of breaking down than the solar panels. Inverters converting DC electricity into AC electricity generally last 10 to 15. The racking system holding panels on your roof may need to be replaced before 25 years. The optional solar battery used to store excess solar power, typically has a 10-year warranty.

Let’s look at some additional factors that can increase or decrease the lifespan of solar panels.

Panel Type

Crystalline solar panels have a longer lifespan than thin film solar panels. Out of the two types of crystalline solar panels, monocrystalline and polycrystalline, monocrystalline panels have a longer lifespan as these panels better withstand extreme heat and cold.

Weather

Panels can be damaged by severe hailstorms, extreme contrasts in temperature, water damage due to degradation of panel seals, or physical damage from falling debris. Most standard solar warranties cover all types of weather damage to your solar panels.

Maintenance

Properly installed and wired solar panels are low solar maintenance. By regularly cleaning your panels, installing solar panel critter guards, and removing debris from tree limbs, leaves, and palm fronds, you can further extend your solar panels productive lifespan.

Call Cool Blew Solar

June is a great time to add solar panels to your home and they will continue to work efficiently for decades. Call your Cool Blew Solar for solar panel installation and servicing experts today at 623-234-2836 for a free quote.

FAQ's

Is Solar Energy Expensive?

The size of your panel installation and the needs of your home will affect your costs. The average net cost of a 5.69kW system is $13,838 cash after 30% rebate (according to solar-estimate.org). An average-sized system can cost up to $35,000. Larger installations will require more hardware, planning and construction time. This can further increase costs. While solar panels are expensive, they have many distinct benefits. Cool Blew Electric & Solar’s experts can assess your situation and goals and recommend a cost-effective system to meet your needs.

How Much Can I Save By Installing Solar Panels?

An average-sized system (5 kilowatts) can reduce up to 50% of your monthly electricity bill. A 5.69kW system would offset 100% of your energy usage if your typical monthly bill is $138. Over a period of 20 years, these savings can add up to $30,000, based on your location and energy usage.

How Long Would It Take to Recoup My Solar Investment by Solar Energy Savings?

With a 5.69kW Solar system you would recoup your savings in 7 years and 2 months but with continuous Utility increases every year your Return and Investment will be much sooner.

What is a Solar Lease Program?

The Solar Lease Program has been one the most popular option that homeowners have chosen over the years. Solar Lease programs gives homeowners the opportunity to take advantage and put Solar on their homes and a guaranteed savings from their Utility for little to no money out of pocket. Most Leases are 20 year power guarantee from the solar provider and includes fixed monthly payments, no repair cost, fully insured and warrantied for the life of the system.

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