Making the investment on Solar Panel can be an important choice for anyone who owns a home. While the prospect of green energy and less utility costs is attractive, it’s essential to be aware of the warranties included with your solar panel. The Solar Panel Warranties provides a safety protection from unexpected expenses and making sure that your investment is worth it for many years to come.
In this thorough guide, we’ll go over the various types of warranties for solar panels. We’ll also discuss the types of coverage they cover, what they’ll cost you, and also how to file a claim in the event that something isn’t working. If you’re in the market for new equipment or to know more about your current coverage This article will help you make educated choices and avoid costly errors.
What Are Solar Panel Warranties?
Solar panel guarantees are promise by the installer or manufacturer that your solar panel will function as it was promised for a specified time. Warranties cover you from any defective materials, poor workmanship and unexpected drop in performance. They are an essential component to your solar investments and provide peace of mind as well as financial protection.
Key Points:
- Warranty terms vary depending on the manufacturer installation, type of installer, and type.
- The majority of solar panels have several warranty options (product, performance installation).
- Knowing the terms of your warranty can save you thousands on the repair and replacement costs.
Types of Solar Panel Warranties
1. Product Warranty
The warranty for the product (sometimes called the warranty for equipment or materials) will cover any defects within the solar panel’s structure such as damaged frames, glass and junction boxes.
Typical Length:
10-25 years (most Tier 1 brands now provide 12-25 years)
What’s Covered:
- Manufacturing defects
- Wear and tear that is premature
- Incorrect materials can cause failures.
What’s Not Covered:
- Injuries resulting from errors in installation (unless it is installed by the manufacture)
- Weather-related weather events (unless specifically stated)
- Accidents, vandalism, or even accidents
Example:
If the glass on your panel cracks because of a manufacturing defect within the warranty time and the panel manufacturer is unable to repair or replace it.
2. Performance Warranty
The performance warranty ensures that the solar panels produced by them will be the same percentage of original power output for an agreed-upon time (usually between 25 and 30 years).
Typical Guarantee:
- 90% of the output is after 10 years
- 80-85% of the output is achieved after 25 years
What’s Covered:
- Gradual loss in efficiency (degradation)
- Panels are not producing the minimum required
What’s Not Covered:
- Drops that occur suddenly due to physical injury
- Problems caused by poor installation
Example:
If the panel’s output falls below 80percent of its nominal output after an interval of 20 years, your company could fix or replace the panel.
3. Installation Warranty
This warranty is offered by your contractor and covers installation errors like bad wiring, improper installation or leaks that result from roof penetrations.
Typical Length:
1-10 years (varies depending on the installer)
What’s Covered:
- Errors in installation and labor
- Leaks in the roof caused by construction
- Connections or wiring that aren’t working properly
What’s Not Covered:
- Defects in the product (covered by the manufacturer)
- Damage resulting from home modifications
Example:
In the event that your roofing leaks as a result of an improper installation of the panel during the warranty time the contractor will fix the damages.
4. Inverter and Battery Warranties
Inverter Warranty:
- Protects the gadget that transforms DC into AC power.
- The typical length is 5- 12 years (can be extended to 20-25 years with certain brands).
Battery Warranty:
- The solar storage batteries cover the entire area (like Tesla Powerwall).
- A typical time span is 5-15 years or a certain time frame.
What’s Covered:
- Inverter malfunctions or the battery
- Performance that is below levels of guarantee
Cost of Solar Panel Warranties by Types
| Warranty Type | Included in Price? | Typical Length | Extended Warranty Cost |
| Product/Equipment | Yes | 10-25 years old | $0-$500 (for extension) |
| Performance | Yes | 25-30 years old | Usually, it is not possible to extend. |
| Installation | Yes (from the installer) | 1-10 years | $0-$1,000 (for extension) |
| Inverter | Yes | 5-12 years old | $300-$1,000 (for extension) |
| Battery | Yes | 5-15 years old | $500-$2,000 (for extension) |
Note: The majority of guarantees are covered in price of the system however some companies also offer free extensions.
Cost of Solar Panel Warranties by System Size
| System Size (kW) | Typical Warranty Coverage | Average System Cost | Extended Warranty Cost |
| 3-5 kW | Standard (all kinds) | $8,000-$14,000 | $0-$1,000 |
| 6-8 kW | Standard (all kinds) | $14,000-$22,000 | $0-$1,500 |
| 9-12 kW | Standard (all kinds) | $20,000-$30,000 | $0-$2,000 |
Larger systems could have more expensive warranty extensions. Always verify with your installer.
Factors Influencing Solar Panel Warranty Coverage
- The Brand’s Reputation Manufacturers in Tier One provide longer, more reliable warranty.
- Installer Certificate: Installations that are accredited may provide longer warranties for their workmanship.
- Climate and location: Harsh climates may alter warranty conditions.
- System Size and complexity: Complex systems or those with greater complexity could be covered in different ways.
- Maintaining Requirements Certain warranties need regular inspections or maintenance.
- Transferability Certain warranties are transferable to homeowners who purchase new homes, whereas others don’t.
How to Make a Warranty Claim
- Identify the Issue:
- Do you think it’s a defect in the product or performance drop? Or is it an installation issue?
- Gather Documentation:
- Purchase receipts and warranty certificates, photographs of the problem, and maintenance records.
- Contact the Right Party:
- Manufacturers for performance issues related to product or service
- Installer to resolve issues related to workmanship
- Submit a Claim:
- Follow the procedure as outlined in your warranty documentation.
- Inspection:
- The company could send a technician to check the system.
- Resolution:
- If the company is approved, it can repair, exchange or pay you compensation in accordance with the warranty conditions.
Pro Tip:
Documents should be kept in a secure place and make sure you register any warranty you have with your manufacturer when needed.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Do not register your warranty: Some manufacturers require registration to ensure full coverage.
- Lost Documentation: Save all contracts, receipts and warranty forms.
- Failure to meet maintenance requirements: Failing to maintain your system may void the warranty.
- DIY Repairs Repairs that are not authorized can invalidate your warranty.
- Do not read the fine Text: Understand exclusions, limitations and claim procedure.
- Assuming all warranties are the same: Compare terms, coverage and transferability.
How to Compare Solar Panel Warranties
- The Length Of Coverage More coverage is generally better, but be sure to check the actual content of the HTML0.
- Degradation Rate: Lower annual degradation means better long-term performance.
- Claim Procedure: Is it easy to submit claims? Is customer service responsive?
- Transferability Will the warranty transfer in the event of selling your home?
- Excclusions Are there any exclusions? (e.g. weather or acts of God vandalism, etc.)
- Installer Reputation Select reputable, certified installers to ensure greater coverage of the work.
Conclusion
Warranty on solar panels is important to your investment, providing assurance and security for many years. If you know the various types of solar panel warranties, the types of coverage and the best way to file claims, you’ll be able to save yourself from costly surprises and make sure that your solar panel will be worth it over time.
Before signing any contract, be sure to compare warranties make sure you ask questions and select reputable companies and installers. If you’re educated you’ll be able to reap the advantages of solar energy without a doubt.
FAQs
What is the difference between a product and a performance warranty?
A product warranty covers imperfections in workmanship or materials, while a performance warranty guarantees a minimum power output over time.
Are warranties transferable when I decide to sell my house?
Some are transferable, while others are not. Be sure to read the warranty terms before purchasing or selling your home.
What invalidates the solar panel warranties?
Unauthorized repairs, lack of required maintenance, or ignoring installation instructions could void your warranty.
Are warranties covered by weather damage?
Not usually, except if specifically mentioned. Make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers weather-related damages.
How do I file a warranty claim?
Contact your manufacturer or installer, provide proof of purchase, and follow their claim procedure.
What is an extended warranty?
Some manufacturers and installers provide extended warranties for an additional fee.
What about battery and inverter warranties?
These are generally separate from panel warranties and come with their own terms, conditions, and durations.