When it comes to solar panels, their lifespan is an essential factor to consider. The more time the panel has to generate electricity, the more it will pay for itself in energy. This is known as energy payback time, or EPBT. In 2010, scientists found that the first solar panel in Britain still worked after 60 years. The device was built by a science teacher who wanted to show that sunlight can generate electricity.
Weather Conditions That Affect Solar Panel Life Spans
Several different weather conditions can affect the lifespan of solar panels. In addition to sunlight, humidity is another factor affecting solar panel lifespan. High humidity causes tiny water droplets to accumulate on the panel, which can refract or reflect light away from the solar cells. Humidity can be a significant problem in tropical climates and damage solar panels over time. On hot days, wind can help dry the panel’s moisture and keep the surface temperature cool.
A solar panel will degrade faster in hot and humid conditions than in more excellent conditions. High heat can also cause discoloration, decreasing solar energy efficiency. Snow, on the other hand, can cause the frames of solar panels to warp, crack, or distort. This can reduce the amount of electricity the panels can produce.
Clouds can also impact the efficiency of solar panels. Cloudy days can block sunlight and reduce PV panel output by as much as 30%. However, partial clouds don’t have a significant impact on panel efficiency. However, clouds reduce the temperature, which helps solar panels become more efficient.
Materials
The life span of a solar panel depends on the material it is made from. The process of making a solar panel involves different steps. The first step is to separate the cell components. Silicon-based panels are separated from the glass and aluminum used to frame the cells.
Deterioration of solar panels occurs due to many factors. One of the most common is the weather. Warm and cold temperatures cause the material to expand or contract, resulting in microcracks formation. Solar panels are not immune to thermal cycling, and the constant thermal cycling puts undue strain on them.
Warranty
If you purchase a solar panel from a manufacturer, you must check the manufacturer’s warranty. Some warranties cover the cost of labor to replace a failed panel, but others do not. A solar panel replacement could cost several hundred dollars, so make sure you choose a solar panel manufacturer that stands behind its products.
Many solar panel warranties also cover installation issues. Be sure to read the fine print carefully to make sure you’re fully protected. While it may seem complicated, a warranty claim can be easy to file. First, you need to identify the problem covered by the warranty and whether it is related to the solar panel’s performance.
A performance warranty guarantees that a solar panel will consistently generate power, despite wear and tear. It also ensures that the panels’ output stays the same over time. This warranty will replace panels that are losing output after a specific time.
Cost of Maintenance
Solar panels require regular maintenance and inspections, and the typical cost of replacing a solar panel can run up to $21,000. In addition to repair costs, owners may also need to purchase insurance, which may be an additional expense, but it will help them save money in the long run. Damaged solar panels can decrease performance and cause electricity shorts and house fires. Therefore, getting them repaired or replaced as soon as possible is essential.
The cost of professional maintenance depends on the type of solar panel installation and how often it will need to be cleaned. Although some homeowners can clean and maintain their panels independently, hiring a professional for significant repairs or inspections is best. Professionals also invest in the proper safety gear and tools for solar panel cleaning. They will also be able to diagnose any potential problems and recommend replacements or repairs. Hiring a professional can save you time, money, and stress.
The cost of maintaining a solar panel is often less than a few hundred dollars. However, if there is damage to the solar cells or the solar panels are in an area that requires constant cleaning, this can increase the cost.
