When investing in a solar power system, it's important to consider the warranties that come with the components. A typical solar system includes solar panels, inverters, and batteries, each of which carries its own warranty terms. These warranties offer protection for your investment and ensure the system performs as expected over its lifespan.

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Solar Panel Warranty

Solar panels generally come with two types of warranties: product warranty and performance warranty.

• Product Warranty: This covers defects in materials or workmanship. If a panel is faulty due to manufacturing issues, the manufacturer will replace or repair it. Product warranties typically last between 10 to 25 years, depending on the manufacturer and model.

• Performance Warranty: This ensures that your panels will maintain a certain level of efficiency over time. While panels degrade naturally, the performance warranty guarantees that they will produce a specified percentage of their original output (usually around 80%) after 20 to 25 years. This warranty generally lasts 20 to 25 years.

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Inverter Warranty

The inverter is a crucial component in a solar system, converting the DC power generated by the panels into AC power for your home. Inverters usually have a 5 to 10-year warranty, though some premium models may offer longer coverage. This warranty typically covers defects in materials or failure to perform under normal conditions. After the warranty period ends, you may need to replace the inverter, as it is one of the more short-lived components of a solar system (typically lasting 10-15 years).

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Battery Warranty

Solar energy storage systems (batteries) are becoming more common for homeowners who want to store excess energy for use at night or during power outages. Battery warranties are generally 5 to 10 years. These warranties cover the battery’s ability to retain charge capacity and function efficiently over time. Most battery warranties will guarantee a minimum percentage of storage capacity (often around 60-70%) after a certain number of charge cycles or years. As with inverters, the battery's performance may decline after the warranty period.

 

Key Takeaways

• Solar Panels: Expect 10-25 years of coverage for defects (product warranty) and performance loss (performance warranty).

• Inverters: Typically come with 5-10 years of coverage, with some models offering longer protection.

• Batteries: Generally have 5-10 year warranties, focused on capacity retention and performance.

Understanding these warranties helps ensure that you're covered for potential issues and that your solar system will continue to generate clean, cost-effective energy for years to come. When choosing a system, consider the length and coverage details of the warranties to protect your investment.

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