Solar Panel Degradation: What Homeowners Need to Know

Solar panels lose efficiency over time, typically at a rate of 0.5–1% per year. This gradual decline, caused by factors like sunlight exposure, weather, and normal wear, impacts energy output and long-term savings. Here’s what you need to know:

• Why It Happens: UV exposure, temperature changes, and moisture cause wear and reduce performance.

• Financial Impact: Even with degradation, solar panels can save you hundreds of thousands over 25 years.

• Lifespan: Most panels last 25–30 years or more, continuing to generate energy even after warranties expire.

• How to Reduce Loss: Choose high-quality panels, ensure proper installation, and schedule regular maintenance.

Solar Panel Degradation Explained

Why Solar Panels Lose Efficiency

Knowing what affects solar panel performance helps with proper maintenance and planning. Several factors can reduce energy output and impact long-term savings.

Normal Wear and Tear

Daily exposure to sunlight and heat can take a toll on solar panels. Over time, these cycles can cause small cracks in the cells and wear down coatings, which reduces their ability to capture sunlight effectively. Regular inspections - ideally once a year - can help identify and address these issues early.

Weather Effects

Weather plays a big role in solar panel efficiency. Here are some common challenges:

• Temperature changes: Repeated heating and cooling can lead to thermal expansion and contraction, which may crack components.

• Extreme weather: Hail, snow, and strong winds can physically damage the panels.

• Moisture issues: If seals fail, water can seep in, leading to corrosion and reduced performance.

Technical Degradation

Even without external damage, solar panels experience gradual performance loss due to specific technical factors:

• Light-Induced Degradation (LID): This happens when panels are exposed to sunlight for the first time, causing a small but permanent drop in output.

• Potential-Induced Degradation (PID): Voltage imbalances within the system can slowly reduce efficiency over time.

Up next, we'll look at how these factors translate into annual power decline rates.

Panel Performance Over Time

Annual Power Loss Rates

Solar panels typically lose around 0.5–1% of their capacity each year. Over time, this gradual decline impacts the overall system output. Knowing this helps set realistic expectations for how long your system will stay efficient.

How Long Solar Panels Last

Even after their 25-year performance warranty ends, most solar panels don't fail entirely. Manufacturers guarantee performance for 25 years, but many panels continue generating a notable amount of energy for 30 years or more.

Panel Quality Comparison

The quality of your solar panels plays a big role in long-term performance. Premium panels degrade at a slower rate and maintain more of their original output compared to mid-range or budget options. Choosing higher-quality panels can mean more energy production and better savings over the system's lifespan.

Reducing Panel Efficiency Loss

After evaluating panel quality and lifespan, follow these steps to help slow down efficiency loss:

Choosing High-Quality Panels

Look for panels with degradation rates below 0.5% per year and a performance warranty lasting at least 25 years. These factors ensure long-term reliability and better energy output.

You can also use tools like Voltify to get panel recommendations tailored to your location's climate and shading conditions.

Once you’ve selected the right panels, focus on proper installation to maintain their performance.

Installation Best Practices

A professional installation plays a key role in keeping solar panels efficient. Here are some key practices to follow:

• Optimal orientation: Position panels to capture the most sunlight throughout the day.

• Secure racking: Use durable racking systems to prevent unnecessary stress or damage to the panels.

• Proper wiring: Ensure electrical components are correctly sized and installed for safe and efficient energy transfer.

• Shade analysis: Place panels strategically to avoid shadows that can reduce energy output.

"I recently got solar through Sun4Good. They were very professional and built a custom system tailored to my home. I am now saving thousands on my energy bill and couldn't be happier. I highly recommend that anyone looking to get solar does it through them." - Tony Donnelly, Homeowner

Getting Professional Help

Once you've handled routine maintenance, it's time to consider professional help to address panel aging and ensure your solar system runs efficiently. Experts focus on critical issues like thermal cycles, moisture sealing, and wiring to maintain your system's performance.

Voltify Solar Design Services

Voltify makes finding qualified solar experts simple with their tech-driven platform. Here's what they offer:

• Custom system designs tailored specifically to your home

• Quick quotes from pre-screened installers - delivered in under 60 seconds

Working with Sun4good.net

Sun4good.net specializes in creating solar setups that prioritize long-term efficiency. Their services include:

• Personalized system designs crafted for your unique needs

• Professional installations designed for durability and reliability

"I recently got solar through Sun4Good. They were very professional and built a custom system tailored to my home. I am now saving thousands on my energy bill and couldn't be happier. I highly recommend that anyone looking to get solar does it through them." - Tony Donnelly, Homeowner

Whether you choose Voltify or Sun4good.net, these professionals can help maintain your panels' performance and boost your energy savings over time.

Summary

Solar panel degradation happens over time, but there are ways to keep it in check. By understanding this process, you can extend your system's lifespan and get the most out of your investment. Regular maintenance and expert help are key to reducing wear and preserving efficiency.

Plan for yearly inspections and cleanings to minimize performance loss. Rely on professional services from Sun4good.net to keep your system running efficiently for years to come.

Consider teaming up with Voltify and Sun4good.net to protect your solar energy investment.