How Long Do Solar Panel Systems Last?

solar panel systems

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It’s no secret that solar panel systems can be relatively costly, and many homeowners can justify the expense as long as it provides a reasonable return on the investment. One of the biggest ways that solar systems can accomplish this is to save the homeowner money while the system is operational. Eventually paying for itself, then creates additional savings for the homeowner. The biggest question is do they last long enough to do this?

We’re going to take a look at how long the leading top-tier panels last, as well as what you can do about it if they don’t make it that long. We’ll also cover the lifespan of similar components in the solar panel system, and if you need to talk to someone about having a system installed, we’ll point you to a trusted local resource.

Solar Panel System Are A Long-Term Investment

While all manufacturers may have slightly different lifespans and warranty periods, the most important thing to remember is that a solar panel system represents a long-term investment by the homeowner in their home and its energy independence. That said, just about any brand of solar panels will have a warranty that allows you to capitalize on the savings that the panels can create throughout their life.

The most popular product in the Kansas and Missouri area is solar panels from Enphase. These panels are unique in that they have some of the other necessary solar system components built in, and as a result, create usable AC power. These panels are projected to last for 25 years and to cover that period, the manufacturer provides 25-year warranties that cover both the product and its performance, separately.

25-year Product Guarantee

The first type of guarantee on Enphase solar panels is the 25-year product guarantee, which covers the panels themselves, and their condition. The panels are designed to stand up to all of the weather that we get across the southern midwest, from the searing heat of summer to the wind and ice of winter, and the storms and occasional hail that we see in between. If the panels ever succumb to damage under normal circumstances, the warranty will see them replaced.

25-year Performance Guarantee

The other guarantee on Enphase panels is the performance guarantee, which also lasts for 25 years, and guarantees that the panels will operate within an acceptable margin of output. If any of the panels stop producing power or produce less than acceptable, they can be quickly and easily replaced by your installer or service partner.

Enphase Micro Inverter Guarantee

Solar panels create DC power, but most things run on AC, so most solar power needs to be inverted to become compatible. Traditionally, solar panels have been routed through charge controllers and power inverters to make the power usable, but newer Enphase panels have built-in micro inverters that not only condition the power but carry a 25-year guarantee just like the panels. This means that using Enphase as your home’s solar power brand allows you to keep your home’s power generation abilities factory-fresh for up to 25 years.

Top-Tier Solar Panel Systems Need Installers You Can Trust

If you think it may be time to invest in solar power for your home, but still have some questions about the solar components and how much they may save you, we’re ready to get you the answers you need. Reach out to Barrett Solar today to discuss your home’s solar potential.

Do solar panels require maintenance?

Solar panel systems are made of durable tempered glass and require little to no maintenance for the 25 to 35 years that they will generate power. In most cases, you don’t even need to clean your solar panels. You can let the rain or snow take care of that for you. If something does happen, you will have manufacturer warranties on all equipment installed by Barrett Solar.

What Solar rebates and incentives are available In Kansas?

Solar rebates and incentives vary depending on where you live. In Kansas the largest incentive available is the 26% federal investment tax credit (ITC) which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of your solar energy system from your taxes. Certain municipalities and utilities also offer cash rebates and other incentives. If you are a business in a rural area or a farmer, the USDA offers grants as well.

What Solar rebates and incentives are available In Missouri?

Solar rebates and incentives vary depending on where you live. In Missouri the largest incentive available is the 26% federal investment tax credit (ITC) which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of your solar energy system from your taxes. Certain municipalities and utilities also offer cash rebates and other incentives. Evergy in Missouri, Columbia power and Ameren have notable rebates available. If you are a business owner in a rural area or a farmer, the USDA offers grants as well.

What are my solar financing options?

Barrett Solar offers two options to finance your solar panel system. You can purchase your system in cash or take advantage of our zero down, low APR financing options. We have a lot of different options to choose from. 

What happens if my solar panels are damaged with hail or by a large storm?

Generally it takes very large hail or a major storm to damage your solar panel system. After you go solar you will want to make sure your homeowners insurance policy has enough coverage to replace any of your panels that may be damaged in a heavy storm.

How much do solar panels cost?

The cost of a solar panel system will depend on many factors, including the size of the system, the equipment, and the financing method. A solar panel system should be viewed as a major home upgrade, and because every home is different it is never good to base an idea of what something should cost off a ballpark figure found on the internet. Barrett Solar offers completely free no obligation solar proposals, and in most cases we can give you an accurate quote with just your historical energy usage data.

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Tyler Blanchard

Founder & CEO

Tyler is the CEO of Barrett Solar.

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