Solar panel warranties in Australia
Product vs Performance
You probably see lots of advertisements stating a 25-year warranty for the solar panels, this is not 100% accurate. A solar panel (depending on the brand) generally comes with 2 different warranties. The first is normally a 25-year performance warranty and the second is a 10-year product warranty. You are probably wondering what’s the difference, let us break it down.
25-year Solar Panel Performance Warranty
This warranty is based on the performance of the solar panel and is normally a percentage of its rated output. For example, it may be warranted to produce 80% of its nominal power for up to 25 years. So as an example a 200watt module would produce approximately 160watts at the 25-year mark. The problem with this warranty is proving the panel’s lack of performance isn’t really easy. In some cases, the panel needs to be sent back to the manufacturer or private testing lab to be independently tested to prove the poor performance. Obviously, this isn’t going to be a cheap exercise as you will need to have the panel/s removed, then sent to the manufacturer for testing. In most cases, it works out more economical to replace solar panels.
10-year solar panel product warranty
This warranty covers the manufacturing quality of the solar panel. As an example, if your solar panel was to allow water under the glass due to the poor workmanship or the poor products used to build the solar panel you would be cover for up to 10 years for the repairs or replacement. This warranty comes with it own issues, for example, if the solar panel manufacturer has left Australia or doesn’t have a contact here, the chances of this warranty actually being valid are minimal. We have seen first-hand hundreds of solar panels that have failed and can’t be replaced under warranty due to the manufacturer closing down or being overseas.
What to consider when looking for a solar panel warranty?
Firstly, you need to make sure the solar panels is on the approved Clean Energy Council product list. Secondly, you need to choose a supplier with an office or wholesaler located here in Australia. We use one of Australia’s largest electrical wholesalers who also have recall insurance to ensure our clients get the best warranty. Lastly, don’t be fooled by sales tactics, there are thousands of solar panels out there, some much better than others. Do your own research and choose a reputable company with a long history of making solar panels.
If your looking for a good quality solar panel give us a call, we service Brisbane, Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast.
