According to the reports, Solar panels last about 20-25 years. Many solar panels are still working properly, which were fitted in the 19th century. Solar panel durability has improved vividly over the last 20-30 years. Remember that durability depends on various aspects, such as the nature of the panel, the process of installing the system, the weather of your living area, and maintenance. However, If you properly maintain your solar panel, the panel may last for 40-50 years.
This article will provide you with all the information about the durability of your panel. This article is also the ultimate guide to increasing your panel’s durability. Read this article attentively.
Table of Contents
Degradation Rate of Solar Panels
The degradation rate of a solar panel is 0.5% per year. It means that a solar panel’s energy will reduce at a rate of 0.5% per year. However, you do not need to worry about that, as after 20 or 30 years, your panels should provide you 20% less performance than their original output. Still, it is enough. This degradation rate displays the quality of your solar panel. It means that the smaller the rate is, the lengthier your panel’s durability will be.
Types of Solar Panels that Last Longer
There are many types of solar panels available in the market. Polycrystalline silicon and Monocrystalline silicon are the most popular (solar) panels nowadays. Both of them last for a very long time, with lifetimes that go beyond the 10-25 warranties of the panels. Though, there are some advantages and disadvantages of both panels.
Solar Panels: Polycrystalline Silicon Vs. Monocrystalline Silicon
Polycrystalline silicon panels are blue. They seem to be very shiny because of the silicon crystals.
There are some holes between these crystals, which catch some of the electrons. Because of this reason, these panels become less effective than the monocrystalline panels.
Monocrystalline silicon panels, on the other hand, are the most effective panel for collecting solar energy. They are not shiny and are dark, with square-shaped solar cells.
However, because of their high efficiency, they are more expensive to afford than polycrystalline panels.
How to Increase the Durability of a Solar Panel?
Solar panels have been made in such a process that they can easily tolerate bad and changeable weather for so many years. Usually, they do not need much maintenance during the time of their life. Indeed, if you maintain your panels, they perform more efficiently and last longer than usual. Here are some basic suggestions you should follow if you want to increase the durability of your solar panels:
Clear All the Dust, Debris, and Other Materials from Your Solar Panel
Although these panels are manufactured to tolerate heavy wind and heavy snow, you still have to clean them frequently. You should clean them in the morning before they are heated up by the direct sunlight. If you frequently clear all the dust, debris, pollen, and other dirt, it can increase the durability of your solar panels, and your panels will give you a better performance.
Maintain and Check Your the Item
You have to check and maintain your the panels daily. You have to check if there are any broken glass or loose connections found in your solar panels. These are the main problems that you may face while using your panels over the years.
There can also be found any electrical faults in your panels. However, it may be difficult for you to detect an electrical fault. So, if you think that something is incorrect with your panels, then you should contact the company as soon as possible to check your panels thoroughly.
Check the Installation Process
If you want to get efficient service from your panels, then you also have to check whether your solar panels are installed correctly or not. If they are not installed properly, they will not perform smoothly.
Maintain and Change Batteries
If you have numerous batteries, replace them with others. This will help all of them to get the same quantity of charge, and it will increase their life. If you use big cables, then it can also expand their charging. Remember that you should not keep your batteries uncharged for a longer time, as this may decrease their performance.
Change Inverters after 10-15 Years
Usually, a solar inverter has a durability of 10-15 years. So, you should change the inverter after 10-15 years to get a better result from your panels.
Lastly, be alert to extreme heat, wind, and snow as they can destroy your solar system. However, the great option to increase the durability is to select the best quality solar panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I expect my solar panels to last on my house?
The average lifespan of solar panels installed on a house is around 25 to 30 years. However, it is important to note that many panels can continue to produce electricity beyond their expected lifespan.
What are the factors that can affect the lifespan of solar panels installed on residential properties?
Several factors influence the longevity of solar panels. These include the quality of the panels, the installation method, the geographic location, the amount of sunlight the panels receive, the climate and weather conditions, and the regular maintenance. Please consult a local certified technician for personalized suggestions for your home.
What kind of maintenance is required to maximize the longevity of solar panels?
To ensure the longevity of solar panels, experts recommended regular maintenance such as periodic cleaning of the panels to remove dirt, dust that may accumulate over time. Moreover, is it also important to inspect the panels for any signs of damage and address them promptly. Most manufacturers provide specific guidelines for maintenance, you should follow them.
Is there any warranty for solar panels?
Solar panels usually come with two types of warranties: a performance warranty and a product warranty.
Performance warranties guarantee a certain level of energy production over a specified period, often 25 years.
Product warranties cover any manufacturing defects and typically range from 10 to 25 years. While warranties provide coverage, it is important to review the terms and conditions to understand what is included and any limitations.
If a solar panel becomes damaged or stops working, can I repair it?
In most cases, if a solar panel becomes damaged or stops functioning properly, you can repair them easily. However, if the panel is still within its warranty period and the issue is covered, the manufacturer may repair or replace it free of charge. Outside of the warranty period, you can contact a professional solar panel installer or a qualified technician to assess the problem and provide repair or replacement options.
Hopefully, this post can help you to collect all the necessary information which you need to improve the durability of panels.
