If you're thinking about solar panels for your home, one of the most important considerations is the solar panel lifespan. Solar PV panels degrade over time, so it's important to understand how long they are likely to last before making a decision. In this article, we will discuss solar panel lifespan and what you need to know about it!
How long is the solar PV panel lifespan?
The standard solar panel lifespan is 25-30 years. Nonetheless, the solar panel will not end up dying after 25-30 years, however, their power output is likely to decrease significantly lower than the amount the manufacturer anticipated. It's hard to grasp the initial cost of going solar if you don't know how long it will take your solar panels on the roof to generate plenty of energy. Solar panels can reduce your energy consumption for years, but it's crucial to be aware of how much degradation and projections are for the industry.The solar panel lifespan and electricity they produce are influenced by temperature, type of module, racking system, and other things. The solar panel lifespan is also based on the quality of the solar panel. If you live in an area with a lot of sun, your solar PV panels degrade more quickly than if you live in an area with less sun.
Do Solar PV Panels Degrade over Time?
Do Solar PV panels degrade? Solar PV panels do degrade over time. The power output of solar PV panels declines gradually as they age.A 2012 study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has proven that Solar PV panels degrade by around 0.5% per year which could be higher in warmer climates and rooftop systems. An average degradation of 0.5% means that the production of solar panels is expected to decrease by 0.5% per year. That means that in 20 years, the panel produces around 90% of the power it generated in the first year.In terms of the productive solar panel lifespan, there is no expiration date, but they are generally warranted for 20 to 25 years. After that, they are still able to generate electricity. However, the amount of actual output isn't guaranteed. The solar panel owner might decide to decommission or repower the project after 25 years. However, some people could keep it in place and allow it to continue to produce electricity but at a lower rate.Solar panels are also covered by several different warranties that will give you an idea of the length of time you can anticipate your solar panel lifespan. Manufacturers of solar panels offer an equipment warranty and performance guarantee. The performance warranty for your solar panel is typically 25 years, which will provide you a better understanding of the amount of electricity you can anticipate out of your solar in the future.In general, solar panels are robust. They are tested by the majority of manufacturers to ensure that they can endure strong winds and large snow loads. Furthermore, solar energy systems do not typically have moving parts and require minimal or almost no maintenance.The best method to ensure that your solar panels are in good working order is to partner with an experienced installer who offers good customer service. It's also crucial to choose manufacturers that offer 10-12-year product warranties on their panels which include environmental damage and defects in addition to the warranty on production, which typically lasts about 25 years and guarantees the panels will generate more than an amount of power for your home.
How do you make solar PV panels last longer?
Maintaining an array of solar cells will result in an accelerated rate of degradation each year and could lead to better performance for your panels. Here are some actions you can follow to ensure the solar panel last longer:
A regular check-up by your service provider or installer
The best method to ensure that your solar panels last for a long time is to ensure that your installer or your operations and maintenance (O&M) provider periodically examines your solar system. An annual inspection can uncover possible issues such as loose wires, exposed wires, and other concerns. It is crucial to conduct a professional check-up on your panels rather than doing the task yourself. You may end up voiding your warranty on the panel if you scratch or cause damage to the roof's panels.A solar panel check-up could be accompanied by an inspection of other equipment that is part of the solar installation, such as your solar inverters and the roof racks. The typical central inverter used in a solar PV panel installation can last between 10 to 15 years and will have to be replaced during the lifetime of your solar panel lifespan. But, micro inverters are an emerging and well-known option to central inverters and generally provide the same longevity as their solar panel counterparts which is 25 years. When you're racking your panels, it is essential to ensure that they are securely fixed to the roof so that they won't get loose and fall off or move off completely.
Make sure that your panels are free of any debris or other harmful materials
Upon installation of your solar panels, your service provider will ensure that there aren't any large trees that can create shade or fall branches onto the panels. So long as you prevent physical damage to your solar panels, they'll continue to generate energy for a long time and possibly even longer than the 25-30 years solar panel lifespan. You can buy special products that stop specific types cause physical harm to panels. For instance, solar panel critter guards can stop animals like birds and squirrels from settling on your panels which could cause wire and panel damage over time.
Find a trustworthy solar provider
Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill, but only if they are properly installed and maintained. Otherwise, you may find yourself with expensive repairs or replacements sooner than you'd like. That's why it's important to find a solar provider that you can trust to get PV panels installed correctly. Look for a company with experience in solar panel installation and maintenance. Ask for referrals from friends or family who have solar panels, or research online reviews. Once you've found a few solar providers that you're considering, be sure to get estimates from each one before making a decision. By taking the time to find a reputable solar provider, you can help ensure that your solar panels will last for many years to come.
Still not using solar? Get PV panels installed today!
Have you been thinking about solar but just haven't pulled the trigger yet? Well, what are you waiting for? EcoPlex Energy Solutions offers solar PV panel installation that will help you save money and live a greener lifestyle. And, our solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years, so you can feel confident that your investment will pay off for years to come. EcoPlex will help you get going with solar today. We provide installations of solar panels to aid you in taking advantage of renewable energy sources. We've put up thousands of solar panels, and have a group of knowledgeable experts who will assist you throughout the process. We'll help you to find a suitable location for your solar panels. We'll guide you in finding the ideal size and style that will work best for the needs of your business or home.Contact Ecoplex today to learn more about how solar panels can benefit you in the long run. Don't wait any longer - get PV panels installed today!
