What Do You Need to Know When Replacing Solar Panels?
One of the benefits of going solar is that solar equipment is exceptionally long lasting because they are built with durability in mind. In fact, once solar panels are installed on a home, the homeowner usually won’t have to worry about them for the next 30 to 40 years, barring the usual basic maintenance of cleaning them off from time to time. This durability is why most solar panels come with such lengthy manufacturer warranties.
But as with all things, as time passes, there will come a time when you might need to replace your solar panels. In this guide, you’ll learn what signs to watch out for and what you can do about it should your solar panels start to fail.
How to Tell When Your Solar Panels Need Replacing
The most common way to tell your solar panels need to be replaced is if you notice your panels or roof are damaged. Physical damage like cracks in the solar panel glass or damage to your roof will require quick repairs. With solar panels, it is important to note that not all damage is clearly visible. In some cases, the panel may look fine, but a slight discoloration can be seen on the surface if you look closely. This discoloration is a sign that moisture has gotten inside the panel and thus, it won’t be able to work as efficiently as it was designed to.
Another common cause is time. Most solar panels come with 20-year warranties, but it’s not rare for them to continue to work without problems for double that time. But time will take its toll on your solar system, so if you notice your panels aren’t producing energy as efficiently as they once did, then that is a sure sign that there is a problem, usually within one or more of the panels.
Replacing or Expanding Your Solar Panel System
A common mistake made by some homeowners is buying a solar system that barely meets their current needs. When this happens, there eventually comes a time when they’ll want or need to expand their systems.
The only problem is that if a few years have passed since the initial installation, then finding suitable expansion solutions can be difficult. In this case, all the old solar panels may need to be removed, so brand-new panels can be installed.
Removing the Solar Panels to Replace the Roof
Installing solar panels has been shown to protect the roof below them, but over time your roof will need to be replaced. When this time comes, you will need to contact your solar installer and have them remove your panels, so the roofing contractors can do their work.
If your solar panels are nearing their end of life or you are thinking about expending your solar system, then once your new roof is completed, this would be an ideal time to have new panels installed.
What to Do When You Need Your Solar Panels Replaced
If you need to replace or expand your solar panels, then you should contact the solar installation company that performed your initial installation. They will have records of your installation and thus be best suited to perform the project with the least problems.
If you purchased your home with solar panels already installed and the previous owner didn’t leave you any information, then look for the installer’s information on or around the inverter inside the home. There may be a sticker attached that will tell you who did the installation. If you still aren’t sure, then contact a local solar installer that you trust and have them come to your home to inspect your panels.