How Long Do Solar Panels Last? A Guide for Homeowners

There are many reasons to invest in solar panels for your home. Solar panels will greatly reduce your electricity bills. They will make your home more sustainable and self-sufficient. Most importantly, solar panels will ensure that you are doing your part to assist the planet and fight climate change.

However, one common question that prospective solar superheroes have in mind is “how long do solar panels last?”. Switching to solar is an important decision, one that requires you to completely change how you get your energy. It is also an expensive process that can cost thousands of dollars.

Therefore, knowing what is the lifespan of a solar panel is important if you wish to make an informed commitment. Read on to find out exactly how long solar panels last.

1. How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

First of all, let’s dive into the lifespan of solar panels. This depends largely on the quality and material of the solar panels themselves. However, as a rule of thumb, solar panels typically last 25-30 years.

As far as electricity infrastructure for the home goes, this is a very long time. You will be hard-pressed to find a run-of-the-mill boiler that lasts this long.

Some solar panels, such as those containing multi-junction solar cells, tend to last longer than others. However, the life expectancy of solar panels is universally agreed to fall between the 25 and 30-year mark.

2. Do Solar Panels Degrade Over Time?

When assessing how long will solar panels last, it is also important to take into account the fact that they may not work as well as you want them to throughout their lifespan. Put simply, solar panels do degrade over time. Research has shown that, on average, solar panels lose about 0.8% of their output power every single year.

This means that the older your solar panels are, the less effective they will be. However, this does not mean you have to lose a lot of money. You can easily find solar companies near me that offer 25-year warranties on your panels. Such a warranty will ensure that you get your money back if your solar panels fail to deliver.

3. Can I Make My Solar Panels Last Longer?

Fortunately, there are many simple things you can do to make your solar panels last longer. Most of the things you can do to extend the lifespan of solar panels are simply routine maintenance.

Luckily, solar panels do not have any moving parts, making maintenance easier. As a rule, you should periodically check your solar panels for dust and debris, clearing them whenever it appears.

Arrange for your solar company to perform a panel check at least once every couple of years. They will be able to identify any problems and fix them before they can cause any damage to your panels. These simple steps will ensure that your panels last as long as possible.

Keep Your Home in Perfect Working Order

Now that you know the answer to the question “how long do solar panels last?”, it is time to get to work on making your entire home more durable. In our Home Improvement section, you will find expertly-curated guides on future-proofing your home and turning it into a true castle for you and your family.