Comprehensive Guide to Solar PV Solar Panel Warranties

Introduction

Welcome to SolarTherm UK, your trusted partner in solar PV panel systems. Solar Panel Warranties We take pride in providing high-quality solar solutions and ensuring customer satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of solar PV panel systems, their components, and the associated warranties. Our aim is to equip you with valuable information to make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of your solar investment.

Understanding Solar PV Panel Systems Solar Panel Warranties

A solar PV panel system consists of several essential components working harmoniously to harness solar energy and convert it into usable electricity. Let's explore each component in detail:

1. Solar Panels (Modules): The heart of any solar PV system, solar panels are responsible for capturing sunlight and generating electricity through the photovoltaic effect. These panels are made up of multiple interconnected solar cells, typically composed of silicon.

2. Inverter or Micro Inverters: Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, while our homes and businesses run on alternating current (AC). The inverter (or micro inverters in certain systems) converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity compatible with our electrical systems.

3. Mounting Frame and Small Components: To ensure stability and optimal positioning, solar panels are securely mounted on frames designed for various roof types or ground installations. These mounting frames, along with other small components, form the support structure of the solar PV panel system.

4. Home Energy Storage Systems (Batteries): While not an integral part of the original solar PV panel systems, home energy storage systems or batteries have become increasingly common since 2014. These systems allow you to store excess electricity generated by your solar panels for later use, further enhancing your energy independence and self-sufficiency.

Solar Panel Warranties 

Solar panels are designed to be durable and offer long-term performance. Reputable manufacturers provide warranties to safeguard your investment and ensure peace of mind. Let's explore the typical warranties associated with solar panels:

1. Product Warranty: Solar panels usually come with a product warranty ranging from 10 to 20 years. This warranty protects against any defects or malfunctions in the panels themselves, ensuring that you receive a reliable and high-performing product.

2. Parts and Labor Warranty: In addition to the product warranty, a standard warranty of 2 years covering parts and labor is commonly offered by solar panel installers. This warranty ensures that any necessary repairs or replacements during the initial years of system operation are covered at no extra cost.

3. Insurance Backed Warranty: Reputable installers like SolarTherm UK go the extra mile by offering a 10-year insurance backed warranty at no additional charge. This warranty serves as a safety net in case the installer is unable to provide support due to closure or other unforeseen circumstances.

Longevity and Efficiency of Solar Panel Warranties

When installed correctly, solar panels can last between 25 and 40 years. Although there is a slight degradation rate over time, the efficiency of solar panels diminishes gradually. It is essential to address the question of longevity and efficiency to alleviate any concerns:

Should you worry about the longevity of solar panels? The answer is a resounding no. SolarTherm UK has installed thousands of solar panels since 2010, and incidents of malfunctions or failures are extremely rare. With proper installation and regular maintenance, solar panels exhibit remarkable longevity and continue to generate clean energy for decades to come.

To put it into perspective, out of approximately 25,000 solar panel systems installed across Europe, we have encountered fewer than 600 failures, excluding the occasional instances of early batch defects. Our experience demonstrates the reliability and longevity of solar panels when entrusted to reputable installers and manufacturers.

The Role of Inverters in Solar PV Systems

Inverters play a crucial role in solar PV panel systems as they convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity usable in our homes and businesses. Here, we highlight some popular inverter options and their warranties:

1. SMA Sunny Boy: The SMA Sunny Boy inverter, commonly used in pre-2014 systems, offers a warranty period of 5 to 7 years. These inverters are known for their durability, with many units functioning perfectly even after extended periods of operation.

2. Fronius: Fronius inverters, also with a warranty period of 5 years, are widely utilized in solar PV panel systems. While occasional failures may occur, especially in inverters reaching the 10-year mark, the majority of Fronius inverters exhibit robust performance.

3. Samil: Samil inverters provide a warranty period of 10 years when installed by an accredited installer. However, it is worth noting that these inverters are more sensitive and prone to issues caused by over-voltage. Reputable companies like SolarTherm UK often recommend upgrading to the reliable and efficient SolarEdge inverters.

4. Mastervolt: Mastervolt inverters have mixed reviews, particularly for larger units. However, SolarTherm UK primarily utilizes the Soladin 600 units with a power rating of around 700W max. These units have proven to be reliable, and numerous installations continue to operate at full capacity.

It is interesting to note that one of our best-performing systems incorporates Mastervolt Soladin inverters, thanks to their remarkable energy efficiency and minimal power consumption during the DC to AC conversion process.

5. Tigo Optimizers: Tigo optimizers, often integrated with the aforementioned inverters, enhance system performance and provide portal-enabled optimization capabilities. These optimizers offer long warranties and promptly notify both the system owner and SolarTherm UK in case of any faults, ensuring efficient troubleshooting and maintenance.

6. SolarEdge: SolarEdge has emerged as one of the most successful rollouts in the solar PV industry. As a strategic partner and advanced installer of SolarEdge systems, SolarTherm UK highly recommends these inverters. They offer a 10-year warranty (extendable at an additional cost) for the inverter itself and an impressive 25-year warranty for the optimizers. To benefit from enhanced warranties, it is crucial to engage a SolarEdge-accredited installer and source the equipment from a reputable supplier.

Optimizing Solar PV Solar Panel Warranties for Performance

While older solar PV systems with optimal angles and minimal shade may experience low energy performance improvements when paired with well-matched inverters like SMA, there are notable benefits to upgrading to newer technologies such as SolarEdge. Let's explore these advantages and considerations:

1. Safety Cut-Out and Monitoring: SolarEdge systems provide safety features that cut out individual panels if their voltage drops below 1V. This ensures the overall system's safety and prevents significant power losses due to a single underperforming panel. Furthermore, SolarTherm UK and system owners can monitor the performance of each panel in real-time, allowing prompt detection of any issues.

2. Fault Prompting and Panel Mismatch: SolarEdge's advanced monitoring capabilities enable the system to promptly identify and alert users and installers about any faults within the system. In addition, the technology minimizes panel mismatch issues, optimizing the overall system performance.

3. Considerations for Upgrades: Upgrading to newer SolarEdge equipment is a personal choice, particularly if your current system is functioning well. However, a comprehensive assessment, including electrical testing of the original PV array, is crucial before making a decision. Trustworthy installers like SolarTherm UK prioritize accurate evaluations rather than relying solely on telephonic or sales-driven claims of system underperformance.

Ensuring Transparency and Due Diligence

When investing in solar PV panel systems, it is essential to exercise due diligence and be cautious of misleading offers and warranties. We emphasize the following key points to ensure a transparent and informed decision-making process:

1. Beware of Blanket Cover Claims: No warranty or insurance exists that can comprehensively cover all components of a solar PV system. Claims suggesting otherwise, similar to British Gas or Homecare type breakdown cover, are misleading and potentially fraudulent. Neither module nor inverter manufacturers typically offer home call-outs or blanket cover for your entire system.

2. Reputable Warranty Providers: SolarTherm UK assures you that we do not engage in such misleading practices. We prioritize transparency, honesty, and delivering quality solar solutions. Our warranties align with industry standards, protecting your investment without making unrealistic promises.

3. Evaluating Third-Party Warranties: Some companies may exploit vulnerable customers, especially those who purchased solar PV systems several years ago. To safeguard against scams, conduct thorough research and consider the reputation and credibility of any warranty provider before engaging their services.

4. Importance of Inspection and Verification: We urge you to conduct due diligence checks before finalizing any solar PV panel system installation. Ask installers about their electrical qualifications, accreditation bodies, and do not hesitate to verify their credentials independently.

In conclusion, SolarTherm UK offers a comprehensive guide to solar PV panel systems, their components, and associated warranties. We empower you to make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of your solar investment. Trust our expertise, commitment to quality, and dedication to customer satisfaction as you embark on the journey towards clean and sustainable energy.