Solar power is undoubtedly a great investment, helping you drastically slash your energy bill while reducing your carbon footprint. Like with most home improvements of this nature, your panels are typically covered by a warranty after they’re first installed, giving you the chance for repairs and inspections without the cost. Once that warranty expires, however, some choose to neglect their maintenance obligations to save money. This is not a good idea and could jeopardize your investment, so learn why inspections are still worth it beyond your warranty period.
Solar panels are primarily made from silicon, with metal and glass making up the remainder. The silicon must be refined in order to be usable, with the various components crafted together precisely in order to convert solar energy into electricity. One of the more unique features of the solar panel is how recyclable it is, with upwards of 95% of its materials being possible to reclaim once the panels reach the end of their lifespan.
As for the solar battery, the industry leader is made from lithium. Much like a laptop battery, these are constructed using lithium salts, graphite, and metals to store and disperse electricity. At the end of their lifespan, certain metals can be reclaimed from them by destroying other materials around them.
As they say, the best cure is prevention. With this in mind, it’s hard to argue that keeping your solar system working right is much better (and more affordable) than trying to fix or replace it. Having someone inspect your system and repair minor issues that pop up may cost more than simply ignoring the problems, but it certainly costs less compared to expensive major repairs or a breakdown.
Your solar panel’s lifespan plays out over an average of 25 years, with solar battery lifespan typically only making it to a decade at most. After that point, your panels start to degrade and lose their efficiency. It’s estimated that panels lose 0.5% efficiency per year when properly cared for, meaning that rate is likely to increase if your panels are not maintained. That means less energy generated and less savings as a result.
Solar panel lifespan depends on a number of factors, but one easy way to make the most out of your panels is with regular inspections. Having a professional come to look at your panels and battery can identify issues that need fixing, bringing them back up to peak performance and keeping them working great for longer. This saves money you’d otherwise have to spend on replacements.
Without inspections, you’re likely to miss any number of common solar panel problems. Micro-cracks along the surface of the panel can inhibit its energy absorption and allow debris and moisture to cause damage to the delicate internals. Loose connections within the panel or to the battery can compromise your energy generation. Pests could damage your panels by chewing through wires, breaking bits off them, and more. Wires could even start to degrade on their own due to any number of reasons, causing all manner of issues.
Don’t wait for your panels to break down to do something. Inspections could mean the difference between a few minor patch-ups and replacing entire panels.
Solar panels are a long-term investment, so shouldn’t you want a partner who’s in it for the long haul? Harmon Solar is the best around in solar system installation, maintenance, repairs, and everything in between, with a wealth of experience and warranties to back up our work. Get in touch today for an instant quote on our solar services.
Image credit: nyker / Shutterstock
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