Knowing the lifespan of solar panels helps you spot signs of aging and maintain efficiency. This way, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of clean energy without costly repairs and unexpected drops in efficiency.
That said, it’s noteworthy that solar panel lifespan expectancy isn’t a definitive category. With the right solar panel maintenance tips, your solar array can last longer than initially projected.
In this article, we’ll answer the “How long do solar panels last?” question in detail, listing the factors that influence their durability. Additionally, we’ll offer a few tips on extending solar panel lifespan to help you get the most out of your eco-friendly power solution. Let’s begin!
What Is the Lifespan of Solar Panels?
The lifespan of solar panels ranges from 25 to 30 years in general (most manufacturers offer a 25-year solar panel warranty), but the exact number depends on several factors. Some of them, like protection, maintenance, and cleaning, are in your power, meaning that you can extend your solar panels’ longevity if you take proper care of them.
Others, like panel material, brand, and type, are out of your hands. However, even though you can’t control these factors, you can choose a high-quality product from the start to ensure your solar array lasts as long as possible.
With all this in mind, it’s important to highlight that panels are the most durable components of a solar system. Failures typically happen in the electrical components, such as the solar inverter or solar generator. Luckily, these can usually be replaced without climbing up to the array (if you have rooftop solar panels, that is).
Even when solar panels near the end of their projected lifespan, they usually don’t stop working. Instead, their efficiency drops by a small amount each year until they reach a point where their output is low enough that it no longer meets your home’s energy needs.
6 Factors That Influence the Lifespan of Solar Panels
Some of the factors that influence the lifespan of solar panels are their type and brand, as well as your area’s weather conditions and your maintenance habits.
Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
#1. Panel Type
Panel type plays a key role in its durability. There are two main types of solar panels—black-colored monocrystalline and blue-colored polycrystalline panels.
The former has a single-crystal structure, which means fewer failure points. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels, as the name suggests, are made of multiple silicon crystals, so they have more failure points.
As a result, monocrystalline panels can last up to 40 years or even longer, while polycrystalline panels rarely last more than 35 years.
#2. Brand
The brand of solar panels you choose can have a big impact on how long your array lasts. Established manufacturers typically use advanced technology and higher-quality materials for their products. For this reason, their panels are more likely to withstand unfavorable weather conditions, such as extreme cold, heat, or storms.
They’re also usually more efficient in the sense that they have better light absorption and smaller energy loss during the DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current) conversion process.
This adds up to a longer-lasting, better-performing system with fewer needs for repair and less maintenance.
#3. Weather Conditions
Weather conditions undoubtedly influence the lifespan of solar panels—the milder the climate, the lower the chance of damage. In contrast, if you live in an area with a harsh climate, your panels may be exposed to extreme temperatures, strong winds, hail, or heavy snowfall, all of which can speed up wear and tear.
For example, sudden shifts from cold to hot temperatures and vice versa can cause thermal expansion and contraction. This can lead to cracks in the panels over time, causing them to malfunction.
Hailstorms, on the other hand, can cause physical damage, breaking the surface of the panels. Meanwhile, strong winds can dislodge certain parts of the array or even loosen the racking system.
#4. Maintenance and Cleaning
The lifespan of solar panels largely depends on proper maintenance and regular cleaning. Debris, dust, and dirt can pile up, preventing the panels from soaking up sunlight and dragging down their ability to produce electricity.
In the worst-case scenario, the accumulated debris can damage the surface of the panels and cause them to overheat, which can shorten their lifespan.
Moisture can also contribute to wear and tear, especially if water seeps into the electrical components. Even if it doesn’t, it can still corrode the metal parts of your solar array, such as the frames and mounts.
#5. The Quality of Installation
With improper installation, the lifespan of solar panels can be significantly compromised. Loose wiring, insecure mounting, inadequate ventilation, and incorrect angling can all impact your system’s efficiency and durability.
For example, loose wiring can not only cause overheating and short circuits, but it also poses a risk of fire hazard. Meanwhile, insecure mounting can put excessive pressure on the panels, exposing them to physical damage.
Inadequate ventilation can speed up panel degradation in its own way—the panels can overheat without proper airflow, which can reduce their efficiency and even affect other components in the system.
Lastly, incorrect angling can put a strain on the whole setup, preventing the panels from operating efficiently and capturing enough solar energy.
#6. The Quality of Material
Material quality largely determines the longevity of solar panels. High-quality materials, such as first-class silicone and premium glass, are designed to handle daily wear and tear, humidity, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions. Thanks to their durability, they degrade more slowly and are less prone to damage, both mechanical and chemical.
On the other hand, lower-quality materials, though usually less expensive upfront, don’t offer nearly as much protection. They deteriorate faster, which means you’d need to replace them sooner. With this in mind, their lower price doesn’t pay off in the long run, especially when you factor in the lost savings on electricity bills—one of the main reasons for going solar—due to reduced efficiency.
Do Solar Panels Degrade Over Time?
Solar panels degrade over time, little by little each year, until it’s time to replace them. To be specific, their output drops by 0.5% to 0.8% annually, according to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). This gradual decline is known as the solar panel degradation rate.
Your panels’ degradation rate indicates how much energy you can expect them to generate every year of their lifetime. You can easily calculate their output by multiplying the number of years since the installation by the degradation rate and subtracting that number from 100.
Let’s say you’ve had your panels for three years, and their degradation rate is 0.5%. In the fourth year, they’ll operate at 98% of their original output (100% - 3 x 0.5%). In the 25th year, which is usually considered the end of their useful life, they’ll work at 88%.
As you can see, despite the inevitable decrease in solar panel efficiency over time, your array will still be functional by the time the warranty expires. That is if you make sure to install and maintain it properly on top of choosing a high-quality brand for your purchase.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Solar Panels: 3 Pro Tips
To extend the lifespan of solar panels, it’s important that they’re handled properly from installation to maintenance.
Here’s a breakdown of the key steps you should take to ensure your solar setup lasts as long as possible:
#1. Proper Installation
Proper solar system installation goes beyond setting up solar panels and other equipment. It involves assessing your energy needs, inspecting the installation site, and collecting the necessary permits. Needless to say, if you have no electrical knowledge or DIY experience, the process is much better left to professionals who can ensure everything is up to code.
Luckily, such professionals can be only a few clicks away, and many of them offer high-quality equipment as well as installation services. In fact, Portable Sun provides an extensive selection of panels, inverters, batteries, and other components, along with an installer program. This way, you can get both reliable products and expert installation all in one place.
#2. Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of solar panels, just as a lack thereof can shorten it. For this reason, you should make sure to inspect your panels every once in a while to see if there’s any damage. Look for cracks in the glass, rust on the frames, or any other sign of wear and tear.
In addition, it’s important that you regularly clean the panels’ surface to prevent piled-up debris from affecting your system’s performance. Mix a few drops of dish soap with lukewarm water and use gentle cloths, sponges, and brushes to avoid scratching the glass. As for the water pressure, it shouldn’t be too high—otherwise, you might dislodge some of the panels’ parts, crack their surface, or force water into the wiring.
Finally, you should consider weatherproofing your solar panels. In addition to taking lightning protection measures, you can install protective covers or shields to prevent physical damage from hailstorms.
#3. Choosing a High-Quality Brand
As previously mentioned, the brand of your solar panels is one of the key factors in determining their lifespan. This is why you should take your time and do the research before making a purchase to make sure you’re investing in a long-lasting product. In fact, the first step in switching to solar power is choosing the right manufacturer.
The warranty they offer for panels (and other solar system components) should give you insight into their reputation. Namely, a provider confident in their products’ quality typically offers a longer warranty. They also conduct extensive research and testing to ensure their panels can withstand the test of time.
What to Do When Solar Panels Expire
When solar panels expire, it means they’ve reached the end of their official lifespan. However, that doesn’t mean they’ve stopped working altogether. After all, this doesn’t happen overnight; instead, their output gradually decreases, meaning that they still generate power, albeit at lower efficiency.
At this point, they may not be able to power your entire home, but you don’t have to get rid of them just yet. Namely, you can use end-of-life solar panels for smaller energy needs, like powering outdoor lights.
When the time comes to replace them, don’t throw them away—solar panels contain recyclable materials, such as silicone, glass, and metal. Some manufacturers offer take-back services, making the recycling of solar panels easier and more eco-friendly.
Once you’ve disposed of your old panels, you might want to consider upgrading to newer technology. This way, you can continue enjoying the benefits of renewable energy and maximize your savings with more efficient panels.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what the lifespan of solar panels is can help you understand when it’s time to repurpose or recycle your photovoltaic modules and upgrade your system.
That said, although solar panels officially last around 25 years, you can extend their lifespan with proper maintenance, cleaning, and protection. This way, you can also maximize their performance, avoid costly repairs, and make the most out of your renewable energy system before it’s time to upgrade to newer technology.
What Is the Lifespan of Solar Panels? FAQ
#1. What happens to solar panels after 25 years?
After 25 years, solar panels still generate power, though less efficiently. They don’t suddenly stop working at the end of their lifespan. Instead, their output drops by 0.5% to 0.8% annually, which is known as the solar panel degradation rate.
#2. How often do solar panels need to be replaced?
How often solar panels need to be replaced depends on several factors, including their quality, material, and maintenance. As a rule of thumb, when you notice your panels’ output has decreased to the point that they can no longer meet your energy needs, it may be time to replace them.
#3. How long do solar panels take to pay for themselves?
Solar panels usually take six to twelve years to pay for themselves, depending on system cost, local electricity rates, and available incentives. This essentially means you can enjoy a decade or more of free energy before it’s time to upgrade your system.
#4. What causes solar panels to degrade over time?
Several factors cause solar panels to degrade over time, including weather conditions and a lack of maintenance. Additionally, improper installation and low-quality materials can shorten the lifespan of solar panels.
Disclaimer: The content on Portable Sun is for informational purposes only. Electrical work can be dangerous—always consult a qualified professional. We are not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses from installation or use. Always follow local regulations and safety guidelines when handling electrical components.