Solar panel warranty type
Description, coverage, consideration
Typical duration
1. Types of solar panel warranties
a. Product warranty
Coverage: Protects against faulty modules or defects.
Consideration: Check what is and isn’t covered—for instance, hail damage may not be included.
Usually between 10 and 15 years
b. Performance warranty
Purpose: Assures the quality of panels and their output over time.
Degradation: Solar panel energy generation decreases gradually (called “degradation”). Manufacturers guarantee specific performance levels, such as 90% up to 10 years and 80% up to 25 years.
Almost all solar panels come with a 25-year performance warranty
2. Solar inverter warranty
String Inverter: Typically covered for 5-10 years.
Micro Inverter (Attached to Rail): Warranty extends to 10 years.
Micro Inverter (Attached to Panel): Impressive 25-year warranty.
Battery Inverter and Hybrid Inverter: Covered for 5-10 years.
3. Solar installation warranty
Also known as a workmanship warranty.
Covers issues arising from installation (e.g., leaky roofs due to cracked tiles).
Usually lasts 5 years
