How Long Do Solar Panels Last? And What Affects Their Lifespan?
Installing solar panels is a great way to cut your energy costs and add value to your home. But like any major home improvement, solar panels do require an upfront investment. Ideally, a solar panel should last long enough for you to make back your initial costs.
The big question is: What is the average solar panel lifespan?
Switch Together is on a mission to help homeowners make the switch to affordable and sustainable energy solutions. If you’re wondering what the typical lifespan of a solar panel is, then keep reading. This quick guide will explain how long you can expect solar panels to last, what you can do to extend their lifespan, and when to replace them.
Time to shed some light on solar panels!
What is the Average Lifespan of a Solar Panel?
Solar panels are made to last a long time. A lot longer, in fact, than most other common residential systems like HVAC systems, water heaters, refrigerators, and even your roof!
The average lifespan of solar panels is usually about 25 to 30 years. Some models can even go beyond this. But, in general, you can expect your solar panels to reliably generate electricity for about three decades.
The lifespan of solar panels isn’t determined by when they stop producing electricity. It’s calculated by how much electricity a panel can reliably produce and for how many years. Many solar panels can generate power well after the 25-year mark. After that, they’ll still be able to produce energy, but not quite as much. Most solar panels will maintain about 80% of their output level for around 25 years before they start to degrade.
What Impacts the Lifespan of a Solar Panel?
A few factors affect how long a solar panel will last. Like any product, how well the panel is made and how professionally it’s installed impacts its lifespan. Poor build quality and a bad installation job will shorten the life of a solar panel.
The weather also plays a role. Solar panels are made to be highly durable, but even the most robust panel can suffer damage under extreme weather conditions. Panels can also be damaged by nesting animals or birds. The amount of energy that a solar panel produces gradually decreases over time. The good news is that this process is very slow. The US Department of Energy estimates that the average solar panel loses about 0.75% performance per year. So, your solar panels will easily be able to provide you with reliable energy for many years.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Solar Panel
Look after your solar panels and they will continue to provide you with cheap, clean energy for decades. All it takes is some common sense and a bit of maintenance.
The first step is to choose a professional installer and quality panels. Once installed, it’s a good idea to regularly clean and maintain your panels. Lots of companies provide solar panel maintenance services. Ideally, you’ll want to have maintenance done at least twice a year.
Follow these tips on solar panel maintenance and you’ll help your panels perform better for longer:
Always keep the panels clear of shade from vegetation or tree branches.
- Regularly inspect your panels for any signs of damage.
- Look for any bubbling, peeling, or discoloration.
- Check that all connections and wiring are secure.
- Clean your panels every three to six months. Use a soft cloth or brush with just water or a very mild soap.
- Clean your solar panels on a cool day in the morning or late afternoon to avoid thermal shock damage.
- Remove all dust from the surface of the panels and debris from around the panels.
- Always keep the panels clear of shade from vegetation or tree branches.
Are Solar Panels Worth it?
While there are upfront and maintenance costs, in the long term, solar panels are a smart investment. Most people get back their investment within five to ten years. After that, any power generated by your solar panels is basically free!
Make the switch to solar and cut your energy costs. Get in touch with Switch Together today.