Your Guide to Solar Panel Lifespan: How Long Do They Really Last?
When it comes to solar panels, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Some people think they only last a few years, and some believe they are a permanent fixture on your roof. Still, many older panels installed years ago continue to function today. So, what’s the truth? How long do solar panels last?
One question that often comes up about solar panels is how long they last. The answer, it turns out, is a little complicated. In this article, we’ll break it down for you. First, we’ll give you an overview of the solar panel lifespan and what to expect. Then we’ll go into more detail about different factors influencing how long your panels will last. Finally, we’ll provide tips for maintaining your solar panels so they last as long as possible.
Do Solar Panels Depreciate?
You’ve likely heard a lot about solar panels in recent years. They’re a hot topic, and for a good reason: they offer a great way to save money on your energy bill while also helping the environment. However, are they worthwhile investments?
Solar panels do indeed depreciate over time. The rate they do so varies depending on the brand and model, but it’s usually around 20% in the first ten years. So, if you’re considering buying solar panels, keep this in mind — the degradation rate over the depreciation rate is typically .5% yearly. In 20 years, the energy production will be at 90% of the original output.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last in Ideal Conditions?
It’s important to remember that the lifespan of solar panels can vary depending on the conditions in which they’re installed. The lifespan of a solar panel depends on a few factors. These include the brand, the quality of the installation, and the climate.
Generally speaking, they’ll last between 20 and 30 years if kept in ideal New Mexico conditions. So, if you’re thinking of installing solar panels in your home, make sure you factor this into your decision-making process. Make sure to buy from a company that can provide a 25-year warranty for their products.
How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Solar Panels
Now that you know a little bit more about solar panel lifespan, it’s essential to understand how to maximize their performance. Here are a few tips:
- Keep your panels clean and free of debris.
- Make sure they’re facing the right direction and angled correctly, done when designed with a solar professional.
- Have them maintained and repaired by a professional as needed.
Tips for Choosing Solar Panels
Consider the following pro tips to get the best panels that meet your needs.
- Do your research
Before you start shopping for solar panels, make sure you go with a solar company that you trust. There are many “quick n ditcher” companies that will come overnight, sell solar systems, then disappear, along with your warranties. Go with a local, established company that has a good reputation.
2. Consider your budget
Solar panels can be expensive, so it’s essential to consider your budget when choosing solar panels. If you go with a solar loan, you will be trading your fluctuating electric bill to a fixed monthly amount until your loan is paid off—then, no more electric bills (except to stay tied to the grid). The typical payback time is 7-10 years, plus your house will sell faster on the market! And don’t forget to factor in the current state and federal tax incentives for going solar.
3. Consider your energy needs
How much energy do you need to produce? This is an important question when choosing solar panels, as it will help you determine the number and size of the system you’ll need. Your solar professional will look at your home’s electricity usage over the last year to size a system for your home. To save even further on your solar system, consider optimizing your current energy output with your home by going with energy star-rated appliances and converting to LED lights for your home. Once these changes are made, getting a system sized for your energy needs will be reduced, saving you more on your energy bill and solar loan.
Get the Most Out of Your Solar Investment: Work with the Right Solar Company
Working with the right solar company is essential to get the most out of your solar investment. Not only do the owners of Poulin Solar Pro have solar for their own homes, but they have solar on their buildings, saving 1609 trees and 96000 kilowatts since 2019!
What’s also great about Poulin Solar Pro is that they offer financing options, so you can afford to go solar. And if you’re afraid of the cost, don’t be! Poulin Solar Pro will work with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable solar company with a long history of success, look no further than Poulin Solar Pro.
Get Started Today
Now that you understand the lifespan of solar panels and the factors that influence them, you can make an informed decision about whether solar energy is a good option for your home. With rising electricity costs and climate change concerns, more homeowners are turning to solar power to cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
If you’re ready to learn more about solar energy, our team at Poulin Solar Pro is here to help. We are a local solar company rated the #1 installer in New Mexico with the largest solar reviews in the country.
Visit our website today and get a free estimate for your solar installation today.
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