Do you often ask yourself, “How long will solar panels last?” You are not the only one! Solar energy is getting more and more attention in the energy market, but many people still wonder if it is reliable or not.
To figure out whether solar energy is for you, you need to know everything there is about it! We want to help you out with your solar panel knowledge.
Today, we are exploring the average lifespan of solar panels. Keep reading to get all the facts.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
A typical solar panel lifespan is around 25 to 30 years. The exact lifespan of a solar panel depends on a few factors, such as the installation location and quality of its own. Its regular maintenance also plays a part in a solar panel’s lifespan.
Generally, even in extreme climate conditions, the lifespan of solar panels can be extended if maintenance is taken seriously and done regularly. Most solar panel manufacturers offer a warranty of up to 25 years for their products.
Warranties usually don’t cover the entire lifespan of the solar panel, as it’s expected to last even after the warranty period. Therefore, solar panels are a great investment for saving energy and reducing your carbon footprint, as they can stay with you for decades.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of solar panels
There are some factors that are responsible for the life of solar panels. Some are beyond to control such as weather. However, some factors are handy to increase longevity.
Quality
Different brand providers provide different quality in their solar panels. So, the quality of your panels determines the long-term differences. Quality means the material used to make the solar panels and the durability of that material.
To determine the quality for longer lifespan, you must look for the production warrant provided by the manufacturer. More than 25 years offered by companies is a good sign for good quality and the product is reliable.
Installation
Experienced installers only may provide the right finishing in installation. Otherwise, improper wiring and installation will result in degrade faster. In this case, you make sure the company is reputed and has a good back profile. Many reputed companies also offer maintenance check to make sure everything is fine.
Maintenance
Solar panels are already known for their low maintenance feature. It is not like you have to give a lot of time. However, you can make sure there is no debris on it by cleaning them. Some people also install solar panel critter guards to avoid such situations. You may also connect your provider to an instant solution if you are unable to handle it.
Usage and Workload
Depending on the watts supported by installed solar panels, you have to use electrical items. It is suggested to use limited appliances when you need them.
Tips for Maximizing Solar Panel Longevity
The key to maximizing longevity is to keep the solar panels clean and free from debris. Maintain good electrical connections, and pay careful attention to the components of the solar system to ensure they are functioning properly.
It is important to keep the system free from shading. This can be done by trimming tree branches or other objects that could be obstructing the sun’s rays. Also, regular monitoring should be done to ensure all parts of the system are operating correctly.
The better preserved the solar panels, the longer they will last. With proper care and maintenance, solar panels can last beyond their listed lifespan and provide clean, dependable energy for years and years.
Cost vs Life Expectancy of Solar Panels
The cost of solar panels varies depending on their size and quality but generally ranges between $0.90/watt to about $4.00/watt before additional costs. A premium solar panel installation service may even offer a better deal payable over the years to come.
Given that a solar panel usually lasts 25-30 years, the cost breaks down to a payback period of 3 to 5 years and a return on investment of 5 to 25%. This means that after the initial installation fee, a homeowner can expect to enjoy 20 to 25 years of free energy from their panels.
Getting solar panels is a sound investment. Comparing the ever-increasing cost of electricity, it is a great way to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
Conclusion
With proper maintenance, solar panels can maintain their efficiency for well over 25 years. As modern advancements in technology continue, the average lifespan of solar panels is continually increasing.
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