This is one of the most commonly asked questions we receive from homeowners. On average, solar panels last for 25-30 years, but this doesn’t mean they stop working once they hit that mark. This just means the energy production will decrease by what manufacturers consider to be a sufficient amount.
Solar Panel Degradation Rate
According to The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, degradation rates can be as low as 0.3% per year, while some may be at 0.8%. This leaves us with an average degradation rate of .5%. What does this mean for homeowners? If you purchase a solar panel with an average lifespan of 25 years and a warranty period of 0.5% degradation, the solar panel will still be working at 88% capacity!
Causes of Solar Panel Degradation
When solar panels are exposed to constant heat, they begin to discolor, affecting the sunlight’s ability to reach the solar cells. Delamination is another cause of solar panel degradation. This is when moisture in the air enters the solar panel and starts to corrode it.
Extending the Life of the Solar Panels
While breakdown is possible, there are a few things you can do to help extend the life of your panels. When installing, our team makes sure there isn’t anything in the way that could cause shade on the panels. Additionally, measures should be taken to keep the panels free from debris. Homeowners can purchase specialty products to help prevent any potential damage such as critter guards. These keep animals from doing things such as building nests under the panel.
Solar panels not only offer a wide range of benefits, but they’re extremely minimal when it comes to maintenance. They’re also strategically designed to be resilient to natural forces so homeowners don’t have to worry about any issues. All it takes to keep solar panels running for decades is a bit of regular maintenance!
Contact Boundless for Residential Solar Power Installation
If you’re looking to install solar panels or have further questions, contact the team at Boundless for a quote. We have extensive experience and are committed to helping homeowners save on energy costs.
