Solar Warranties
Solar panels are typically made using silicon, a semiconductor material that absorbs photons from the sun to generate an electric current that produces electricity. A solar energy system is a financial investment that should be conducted properly in order to ensure the productivity of your system. Warranties are established to protect investments and ensure your system’s performance.
Understanding Solar Warranties
A solar panel warranty is a guarantee that either a manufacture or installer gives a customer ensuring the solar panels will function as sold for a period of time. A typical warranty will offer protection for panel reliability, production and more. This helps customers feel more comfortable with the product the installers are using and helps protect their investment.
There are two general types of warranties for solar panels: equipment & performance.
An equipment warranty will cover any panel defects, equipment failure and other environmental issues that may prevent a panel from operating properly.
A performance warranty guarantees that the total system output will not drop below a specified degradation percentage.
What is an Equipment Warranty for Solar Panels?
Equipment warranties cover the integrity of the panels used for a solar energy system. It protects against issues caused by manufacturing defects, environmental issues and other premature wear and tear. Most equipment warranties ensure about 10-12 years without failure. When making a large financial investment for a solar energy system, it is important to understand what is covered in your equipment warranty in order to maximize the benefits of your system.
What is a Performance Warranty for Solar Panels?
A performance warranty is a guarantee that the system’s total output will not drop below a specified percentage. This is often referred to as the lifetime warranty. If the panel’s production drops below a specified level within the warranty period then the problematic panels will be replaced or repaired. Performance warranties are typically 25 years. It is important to understand the degradation rate and compensation mechanisms of solar panels in order to purchase ones that are best suited for your solar energy system.
Reading and Evaluating Solar Warranties
It is essential that you understand the warranty before committing to a manufacturer. Understanding exclusions, limitations and the transferability of your solar panels is vital when choosing a manufacturer for your solar panels. If you are not clear on the conditions of a warranty, seek clarification from solar panel manufacturers or installers.
Warranty Claims and Procedures
In order to ensure that a warranty claim is filed properly, it is important to understand the steps and procedures. Adequate documentation and evidence such as photos or data graphs support warranty claims to guarantee their approval. Reporting any issues that arise immediately while adhering to warranty claim procedures will help ensure that your claim is processed in a timely manner.
Third-Party Warranties and Additional Coverage
Extended warranties as well as third-party warranties are available to assist in assuring the lifespan and production of your solar energy system. In the case that a solar panel manufacturing company goes out of business, a third-party warranty may pose a good safety option. It is important to have an understanding of the terms and conditions of a warranty. Before choosing an extended or third-party warranty it is important to research and compare various options.
Bottom Line
Solar panels warranties are created to alleviate concerns about repairs and replacements of your solar panels. It is essential that you understand the terms and conditions of your manufacturer’s warranty. Warranties aid in the protection of your financial investment which also ensures the production of your solar energy system.