Are you looking for a way to make use of all the sunshine your roof is getting? Going solar is a way to go, and you know it. Still, you’ve got some doubts about your future solar panels’ longevity. So, how durable are the panels: are they long-lasting, or will you quickly regret getting them?
Solar Panels: A Long-Term Investment
Would you like to save money in the long run and protect the environment? Installing solar panels on your roof would make both things possible, all at once. But before you decide to go solar, you’ll need to know where you stand. So, why is the durability of solar panels such an important thing to consider for all future solar power users?
Simply put, going solar is a serious investment, so it’s necessary to know what you’re getting into. Money-wise, solar panels will have you committed long-term. Because such a system can cost you around $12,476, its quality must be top-notch. You wouldn’t want to spend all that money in advance on an installation that won’t live up to your expectations.
So, will solar panels’ durability be worth your money in the long run? Here’s what you’ll need to consider before you go solar.
Are Solar Panels Durable Enough?
On average, the life expectancy of a solar panel system is about 25 to 30 years. Naturally, this applies only to undamaged constructions. If your solar panel company hasn’t installed the system properly, you might be looking at much less. The same goes for using inadequate materials that are more prone to damage.
Nevertheless, you must be happy to hear that solar panels are pretty durable since they don’t contain any moving parts. Tier One solar panel companies put a lot of effort into producing long-lasting systems that won’t disappoint you. While the crystalline cells are fragile by themselves, there’s a layer of tough glass covering them up for protection. Such tempered glass can be as much as six times more durable than regular glass.
Difficult weather conditions shouldn’t worry you, either. Solar panels get tested for sustaining all kinds of weather like wind, snow, or heavy rain. If UL has issued a safety certificate to your future solar panels, it means they’ll be durable enough.
However, there will still be the risk of physical damage that heavy storms might cause. So, make sure your panels aren’t around falling tree branches, rocks, or anything of the sort. Otherwise, even the most highly sustainable materials won’t be able to keep your solar panels safe.
But apart from physical damage, there’s one other thing you’ll need to bear in mind. Namely, your solar panels will get older and a bit less productive over the years.
What Is a Solar Panel Degradation Rate?
Regardless of how sustainable your solar panel construction might be, expect at least some weathering over time. Contrary to what you may think, it has nothing to do with how durable the materials are. Instead, this degradation refers to the overall productivity of your solar panel construction. In other words, be prepared to see its ability to generate energy decrease over the years.
So, your solar panels will “work” about 0.5% less each year. After 20 years of collecting sun rays, they’ll operate at 90% capacity. For rooftop constructions or those exposed to even hotter weather, the degradation rate gets a bit higher. Still, try to give your solar panels a benefit of the doubt because everyone deserves to get tired.
Final Thoughts
Going solar can seem like a costly investment at first. But even if covering the costs isn’t an issue for you, you’ll need to know what quality to expect. Will your solar panels be durable enough to provide you with enough power over the years?
Luckily, their materials are highly sustainable. They can endure difficult weather conditions like snow, wind, and rain. Still, try to keep your panels away from falling objects as they can get damaged. Also, expect your solar panels’ productivity to decrease a bit over time.
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