How Long Do Solar Panels Really Last? The Truth About Solar Panel Lifespan

Last updated on October 5, 2023

So, you’re thinking of going solar and wondering how long those panels on your roof might last. It’s a fair question. After all, solar panels aren’t cheap, even with tax credits and incentives.

You want to make sure any investment you make in renewable energy is going to pay off over the long run.

>> Related reading; Can I Install Solar Panels For Free?

The truth is solar panels are built to last. Manufacturers typically guarantee them for 25 years, and panels often continue producing energy for decades after that. But a lot depends on the specific panels you choose, how well you maintain them, and where you live.

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In this article, we’ll give you the lowdown on solar panel lifespans, so you can make an informed choice when you decide to take your home off the grid. Spoiler alert: for most homeowners, going solar is a smart long-term investment resulting in lower energy bills and a greener future.

The Typical Lifespan of Solar Panels

The typical lifespan of solar panels these days is 25-30 years, but many panels come with warranties that guarantee at least 80% of their rated power output for 20-25 years.

The good news is, with minimal maintenance, most solar panels will last well beyond their warranty period.

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How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Solar Panels

To get the most out of your investment in solar, you’ll want to maximize the lifespan of your panels. Here are some tips to keep your panels running efficiently for decades:

Choose high-quality panels

Go with panels from reputable brands that offer long warranties, typically 25 years.

Higher-efficiency panels tend to last longer. While more affordable panels may save money upfront, they degrade faster, which results in lower energy production and savings over the lifetime of the system.

Protect panels from environmental damage

Position panels so they are not in direct contact with rain, snow or extreme heat which can cause micro-fractures and corrosion.

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Install panels at an angle, use mounting structures to elevate them above the roofline, and consider panel shades or covers. These steps shield panels from weather exposure that reduces their efficiency and shortens their lifespan.

Perform regular inspections and maintenance

Schedule annual inspections with your solar installer or an electrician to check the connections, cabling, and inverter for signs of wear or damage.

They can also test system performance to ensure maximum energy production. Arrange repairs or part replacements immediately to avoid bigger problems down the road.

Keep panels clean

Built-up dirt and debris on panels can block sunlight and lower energy output by up to 25% per year. Have panels professionally cleaned once every 1-2 years, or more often if you live in a dusty area.

You should only use water and a soft sponge or cloth as harsh chemicals can damage the panels.

By choosing high-quality, long-lasting panels, properly installing and maintaining them, and guarding them against environmental factors that degrade performance, you can ensure that your solar panels provide renewable energy for your home for 25-30 years or more.

With some TLC, you’ll get the maximum return on your investment in clean energy.

When It’s Time to Replace Your Solar Panels

After 10 to 15 years, you might need to consider replacing your solar panels. While solar panels are very durable, their efficiency slowly degrades over time.

After a decade or so, they may need an upgrade to the latest technology. Here are some signs it’s time for panels’ replacement:

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Lower Energy Production

If you’ve noticed your energy bills increasing even with the same usage, your panels are probably producing less power. Check your solar monitoring app or meter to confirm whether the panels are generating lower wattage. Newer upgraded panels can generate more energy.

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Physical Damage or Defects

Inspect your panels for any visible cracks, dents, or defects which can reduce performance and cause a safety risk. If under warranty, contact the manufacturer about a replacement. Otherwise, it might make sense to replace the damaged panels.

Newer Solar Panel Technology

The technology behind solar panels is always advancing. Newer panels today can generate more energy at a lower cost.

Upgrading to the latest, most efficient panels is an easy way to maximize your solar investment. Many homeowners find upgrading their panels leads to savings on energy bills which can help pay for the new panels over time.

Additional Energy Needs

If your energy needs have increased over time, your current solar panel system may no longer be sufficient to meet them. Adding new panels is a simple solution to increase your energy production and offset more of your power usage.

While solar panels are built to last for decades, it’s a good idea to evaluate if it’s time for an upgrade after 10-15 years. Newer, high-efficiency panels and improved technology can help ensure you get the most out of your solar investment for years to come.

If replacement isn’t needed yet, be sure to keep your panels well-maintained by cleaning, inspecting, and optimizing them as needed.

FAQs About Solar Panel Lifespan

How long do solar panels really last?

The lifespan of solar panels is often cited as 25-30 years, but the truth is a bit more nuanced.

Most solar panels are rated to produce power at 80% of their initial efficiency after 25 years, but they will continue functioning beyond that. The actual usable life of panels depends on several factors.

Panel quality

Higher quality panels built with premium materials and components will typically last longer. Many top brands offer performance warranties of 25 years or more. Cheaper panels may only last 10-15 years before needing replacement.

Installation

The installation process also plays a role in determining solar panel lifespan. If panels are not properly mounted, sealed and grounded, exposure to the elements can accelerate degradation.

Professional installation by licensed solar contractors help ensure panels are set up for maximum longevity.

Environment

The environment where panels are installed impacts their usable life. Areas with intense sunlight and heat year-round cause more stress than moderate climates.

Coastal areas with salt air require more resistant panel materials and mounting frames. Snow, ice and hail also reduce lifespan.

Maintenance

Basic maintenance by regular inspections, cleaning panels, and clearing debris helps keep panels in good working order for longer. Minor repairs or part replacements can be done to extend the life of panels.

With proper care and upkeep, quality solar panels can function well for 30-40 years in many areas.

While solar panels do degrade over time, their useful lifespan is often longer than the initial estimates.

With high-quality components, professional installation, the right environment, and ongoing maintenance, solar panels can provide decades of renewable energy and savings.

The key is starting with panels built to last, then keeping them in prime working condition.

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Conclusion

So there you have it, the truth about how long solar panels really last. As you’ve learned, with proper installation and maintenance, a high-quality solar panel system can provide energy for your home for 20-30 years or more.

While the panels themselves may continue functioning beyond that timeframe, their energy production does start to decrease over time.

But the good news is, by the time you need to replace your panels, solar technology will likely have improved even further, costs will have declined, and you’ll be able to upgrade to a more efficient system.

For now, you can rest easy knowing that solar is a smart long-term investment for your home and the environment. The future is bright!