Solar panel warranties: Don’t get burned

Solar panel warranties aren't just paperwork to ignore. They're your safety net if problems happen. Let’s break down solar panel warranties, different levels of coverage and what you can expect to be protected from.

Level I: Manufacturer’s warranty

The very first level of your panels’ protection is provided directly by the manufacturer. You don’t need to pay any extra for it, all is included in your panels’ price. The solar panel manufacturers offer two main warranties: product warranty and performance warranty.

Product warranty protects the panel itself

This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship of the solar panels themselves. Think of it as a guarantee against manufacturing flaws. The duration ranges from 10 to 30 years, depending on the brand. During this period, if a panel malfunctions due to a covered defect, the manufacturer will repair or replace it at no cost to you.

Performance warranty guarantees the output

This warranty focuses on the power output of your solar panels over time. It guarantees a minimum level of electricity production your panels will maintain throughout the warranty period. Most warranties ensure your panels will produce at least 90% of their original output after 10 years and 80% after 25 years. This translates to a gradual decrease in efficiency, typically around 0.7% per year. A linear performance warranty is often referred to as linear because it guarantees a steady decline in power output, not sudden drops.

Tatiana Ivanova

Author

Longer is not always better. When choosing solar panels, focus on the manufacturer’s reputation over the warranty length. There are many top companies offering humble 12 years for product and very young ones with tempting 30 years. And there is a but: about 50% of new businesses in the US go bankrupt in the first few years. If things don’t work out for a young company, they won’t be able to honor their 30-year guarantee.

Level II: Installer’s warranty

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Separate from the warranties provided by solar panel manufacturers, installer’s warranties cover the workmanship of the installation itself. In essence, it’s a guarantee by the company putting in your solar panels that they will fix any problems caused by faulty installation for a set period. 

The installer warranty typically covers roof holes and waterproofing, electrical connections, mounting hardware, and overall workmanship. Most installer warranties last 5-10 years, though some of the best installers offer 25-year coverage to match manufacturer warranties. Make sure the warranty clearly outlines what is and isn’t covered. If you plan on selling your home in the future, consider whether the warranty can be transferred to the new owner.

Many people overlook the installer warranty, but it's just as important as the manufacturer warranty. Even the best solar panels won't work right if they're installed poorly. Be careful with new installation companies. A 25-year workmanship warranty doesn't help much if the company goes out of business after a few years.

Vasilii Smirnov

Solar Installation Expert

If you live in a hurricane-prone state, there may be an interesting option in your installation contract – removing solar panels before a hurricane hits. Solar panel installers usually work with insurance companies – in some states, they can’t work without them. If a hurricane is in the forecast, you can call the installer to come and take your panels down for the storm and then come and put them back on. That’s at the expense of the insurance company.

What to do when you have a warranty problem

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When you suspect an issue with your solar panels that might be covered by warranty, taking the right steps can make the difference between a smooth repair process and a frustrating denial.

Document the problem thoroughly

First, gather evidence of the issue before contacting anyone. Take clear, well-lit photos of any visible defects. For performance issues, download and save performance data from your monitoring system that shows the drop in production. Note when you first noticed the problem and any weather or other conditions that might be relevant.

Make copies of your original warranty documents, purchase agreement, and proof of any required maintenance you've performed. Having this documentation ready will speed up the claim process and strengthen your case.

Contact the right company first

For physical defects in the panels themselves, contact the manufacturer directly. For issues that might be related to installation, like roof leaks or wiring problems, call your installer first. Contacting the wrong company can delay resolution and might cause you to miss important claim deadlines.

When making initial contact, be clear about the problem but avoid claiming you know the cause unless you're absolutely certain. Simply describe the symptoms you're experiencing and ask about the warranty claim process.

Be prepared for the claim process

Most manufacturers and installers have specific procedures for warranty claims. You'll likely need to fill out claim forms and provide proof of the problem. Ask about timeframes for inspection and resolution upfront so you know what to expect.

Find out if there will be any costs to you. Some warranties cover parts but not labor, or they might require you to pay for testing if the panels turn out to be working within specifications. Understanding these potential costs ahead of time prevents surprises.

When your claim is denied

If your warranty claim gets denied, don't give up immediately. Request a written explanation for the denial that references specific warranty terms. Review your warranty carefully to see if the company's interpretation seems correct.

If you believe the denial is unwarranted, consider getting an independent assessment from a different solar installer or a solar engineering firm. This third-party evaluation can sometimes help convince the manufacturer or installer to reconsider, or at least give you clarity on whether pursuing the matter further makes sense.

As a last resort, you might need to consult with an attorney who specializes in consumer protection or contract law. Many states have consumer protection laws that might give you additional rights beyond what's in your written warranty.

Steps to avoid warranty issues

The best warranty claim is one you never have to make. Have your system professionally inspected every few years, especially as it approaches the 5-10 year mark. Many issues can be caught early before they cause significant problems.

Regular monitoring and maintenance

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Set up a consistent schedule to review your system's performance data. Monthly checks of your production numbers can help you spot gradual declines that might indicate warranty-covered issues. Most modern systems include monitoring apps or online portals that make this easy. Look for unexpected drops in production that can't be explained by seasonal changes or weather patterns.

Keep a maintenance log of everything you do with your system, from cleaning to repairs to inspections. This documentation proves you've taken proper care of your investment and can be crucial if a manufacturer tries to deny a claim based on inadequate maintenance.

Protection from avoidable damage

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Trim trees near your solar array to prevent branches from scraping panels during storms or dropping debris that could cause physical damage. Tree shade that wasn't present during installation but develops as trees grow can reduce performance and might not be covered under warranty, so regular trimming helps maintain optimal conditions.

In areas with heavy snow, consider how you'll safely remove snow from panels. Using the wrong tools can void warranties, so research proper methods beforehand. Some homeowners use soft roof rakes designed specifically for solar panels, while others rely on natural melting. Check your warranty to see if snow removal is addressed.

System upgrades and modifications

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If you plan to modify your system by adding panels or upgrading components, consult with your original installer and check your warranty terms first. Unauthorized modifications can void warranties entirely, even for the unmodified original components. Some manufacturers require that only authorized installers perform any work on the system.

When replacing other components like inverters or optimizers, stay with compatible equipment recommended by your panel manufacturer. Mismatched components can cause performance issues that might be excluded from warranty coverage, even if the panels themselves are functioning properly.

Documentation and communication

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Save all email communications with your installer and manufacturer, especially any advice they give about maintenance or operation. If they provide instructions that later conflict with warranty terms, these messages might help you challenge a claim denial.

After any extreme weather event like hail, high winds, or lightning storms, document the condition of your system with photos and notes. This creates a timeline that can help establish when damage might have occurred if problems develop later.

By taking these preventive steps, you'll not only reduce the likelihood of needing to make warranty claims, but you'll also be in a much stronger position if you do encounter problems that require manufacturer or installer support.

Warranties vs. insurance

Many homeowners mix up warranties and insurance. While they both protect your solar investment, they do it in different ways.

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Warranties cover defects and performance issues that are the manufacturer's or installer's responsibility. They come with your purchase and make specific promises about how the equipment should work.

Insurance protects against unexpected events that damage your system, like storm damage from hail, wind, or lightning, fire, theft, vandalism, or falling trees. Most home insurance policies will cover your solar system, but check with your insurance company before installation. You might need to increase your coverage to fully protect the added value of your solar system.

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