Are you planning to have a residential solar panel installation?
More Americans are experiencing the benefits of solar panels for the home. Aside from reducing your monthly energy expenses, the best solar panels yield significant rebates and tax credits.
To maximize the solar panel costs, understanding the factors affecting their performance is crucial. How long do solar panels last? Continue reading to find the answer below.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
On average, a solar panel installation lasts between 25 and 30 years. Does it mean the panels stop working after the third decade? No, the panels will continue to gather and generate electricity.
The difference is these solar panels may not produce the same amount of energy anymore. Manufacturers consider this as the end of their useful lifespan.
As the system goes beyond the third decade, the degradation rate kicks in. The panels may not be as efficient as they age, but they can work for up to 60 years.
The Degradation Rate of a Solar Panel Installation
Degradation rate refers to the decrease in the solar panel’s ability to absorb and convert solar power into electricity. Panels with lower degradation rates mean they can produce more energy for longer. Solar panels from a trusted solar installation company have degradation rates around 0.5% and below.
Several factors affect the performance and degradation rate of the panels. The most common culprit is exposure to extreme climate changes. Another is the reduction of the chemical potency due to age.
The location of your property also affects the performance of your solar panels. The latitude, orientation, and inclination can affect the absorption and energy conversion rates.
Maintenance Tips
The degradation rate is inevitable, but you can slow it down. Make sure there are no debris and other materials over your solar panels. Dirt, twigs, pollen, and animal droppings can reduce panels output by 35%.
If you picked a solar power system with batteries, replace them whenever necessary. Check the warranty to determine how long they last. Perform periodic battery inspections to ensure their peak condition.
Always check the inverters daily. If they stop flashing green lights, it means the panels are losing their efficiency in converting solar energy to electricity.
Are you too busy to clean your panels? If so, invest in automated cleaners. Sprinkler systems can wash the debris from your panels.
Connect with your solar energy system provider for regular maintenance. If you notice something unusual, contact solar panel installers immediately. Ask for a comprehensive check-up to make the most out of your solar panel system.
Learn More About Solar Energy Now
Now you know how long solar panels last, you can keep their performance through proper maintenance. You can maximize the benefits of the solar panel installation and boost your home’s efficiency.
However, you have lots of other topics to learn about solar panels. Enrich your knowledge by looking for other solar maintenance methods.
Is this guide helpful? If so, consider reading our other posts today.