Solar Services

Renewable energy sources are long-term and considerable investments. This includes solar panels and solar batteries. Because of this, it is crucial to know you are buying high-quality products that will last for a long period.

Luckily, there is a lot of good solar panel and battery options available out there. That’s why a lot of homeowners around the world have made the move to go solar.

However, unexpected errors often happen, just like any electrical system. This is where having a warranty comes in. Today, we’re going to share with you some things you need to know about solar panels and battery warranties.

Keep in Mind Existing Solar Warranties when Adding a Battery

You’ve got two main installation options if you want to add a battery to your existing solar panels. First, a DC-coupled installation where the solar panels directly feed into the new battery. Second, an AC-coupled installation where the hybrid inverter and the battery are installed together with your existing system.

For each case, there are benefits and drawbacks. However, a huge factor to consider is that DC-coupled installation will affect your current solar panel warranty since it affects your existing set-up. You’ll have to update in line your existing solar system with the latest electrical codes. This will allow the battery installer to take over the obligations of the existing warranty. The installer will have to include this into their cost structure since they’re taking an extra risk. Thus, you’ll end up with a higher bill.

Proper Installation is the Key

Solar systems and batteries are based on proven, established, and constantly improving technologies. The truth is that the possibilities of there being a product malfunction within the warranty period are extremely small if you pick a high-quality product. This is particularly true if it is properly installed.

Almost every product manufacturer has a list of installation needs that you have to meet to protect the performance and product warranties. Usually, this includes having the solar panel and battery installed by an accredited installer with extremely particular training and knowledge. In addition to that, a quality installer will offer you their own warranty of 1 to 5 years.

Know Your Performance and Product Warranties

Oftentimes, solar panels are covered by separate performance and product warranties. However, a couple of manufacturers combine them together.

• Performance Warranty

This outlines the expected system performance over a period. This includes the overall performance remaining and the level of decline. Typically, performance warranties are around 2 decades.

• Product Warranty

This warranty covers product defects in workmanship or materials. In several areas, the minimum solar product warranty standard is 5 to 10 years. However, a couple of manufacturers often provide a 25-year warranty.

Typically, there’s one warranty that covers both performance and product elements when it comes to solar batteries. Manufacturers ensure that the product will maintain a particular level of performance and will stay free of defects for a number of years. They also often use battery cycles. It is the term used on how many times a battery discharges or charges.