Installing a solar energy system to your home or business is a big investment, and with the right care, you’ll be reaping the benefits for 25+ years. Many manufacturers provide warranties and guarantees for their panels and inverters, but there are some other things to consider, to ensure your system continues to generate the most electricity for you. 

In this short blog, we’ll cover what to expect post-installation, the warranties that protect the equipment, and the importance of regular maintenance.

Manufacturer warranties and guarantees

The solar panel manufacturers that we work with offer warranties to protect your investment against defects and performance issues. The below is an example of what to expect – we recommend asking one of the team or reviewing the individual product warranties for more specific information. 

• Product Warranty: Typically lasting 10-25 years, a product warranty covers any defects in the materials or workmanship of the panels. If a panel malfunctions, the manufacturer will replace or repair it within this period.
• Performance Warranty: Solar panels degrade over time, but performance warranties guarantee that panels will maintain a certain percentage of their rated output over 25-30 years, usually around 80-85%. This ensures long-term efficiency and provides peace of mind that your system will deliver substantial energy for decades.
• Inverter Warranty: Inverters often have shorter warranties (5-12 years) than panels due to their critical and high-demand role in converting DC to AC power. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties, which can be worth considering.

Having a clear understanding of what your warranties cover and their duration allows you to address any issues confidently if they arise.

The Importance of regular maintenance

Keeping your panels clean and free of debris helps maintain their efficiency. While solar panels are generally low-maintenance, regular checks can make a significant difference in performance.

• Cleaning Panels: Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and pollen can accumulate on the panels, blocking sunlight and reducing efficiency. Regular cleaning helps ensure optimal energy production. Professional cleaning is recommended, as they use water and methods that won’t scratch the panels or affect the protective coating. We work with a local cleaning company to offer this service to our clients – reach out to the team to find out more information. 
• Seasonal Considerations: Spring and autumn are ideal times to check for any build-up or seasonal residue on the panels. Regular maintenance also prepares your system for the more intense energy generation in summer.

   

Proactive system inspections

Regular inspections by a professional can identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.

• Electrical Checks: An electrician can verify that all connections and components are in good working condition, ensuring no loose wires or faulty parts compromise your system’s performance or safety.
• Bird and Pest Prevention: Birds, squirrels, and other small animals sometimes seek shelter under or around solar panels. They can cause damage to the roof or the wiring beneath the panels. Adding deterrents, like mesh, around the panels can help keep birds and pests from nesting beneath the array.
• Roof Inspections: Since solar panels are installed directly onto the roof, regular inspections are an opportunity to check for any minor roof damage and address it before it becomes an issue. Ensuring the roof is stable and damage-free helps prolong the lifespan of both the roof and the solar system.

   

Tracking system performance

Most modern solar installations come with monitoring systems or apps that allow you to track your energy production in real-time. This provides several advantages:

• Identify Performance Drops: A sudden decrease in energy production may indicate an issue with a panel or the inverter. Monitoring helps you catch these signs early, so you can arrange for a professional check.
• Optimise Usage: By knowing when your system produces the most energy, you can adjust your energy consumption habits to maximise savings. For example, running high-energy appliances like dishwashers or washing machines during peak solar hours can make the most of your system’s output.

   

Scheduling annual professional maintenance

Annual or bi-annual professional maintenance is recommended to ensure everything is working as expected. Professional service usually includes:

• System cleaning and calibration: Professionals can safely clean panels, check calibrations, and ensure no dirt or residue is blocking sunlight.
• Inspecting roof and panels: They’ll examine the structure of your roof and the mounting system, checking for any wear and tear.
• Inverter and electrical check-up: A detailed inspection of the inverter and all electrical components to ensure maximum safety and performance.

Having a regular check keeps your system running smoothly and allows you to address small issues before they affect energy production.

Get started

If you have any questions about the type of ongoing maintenance your renewable system might need, or would like to learn more about the warranties for specific products, please make contact with the team.