How Long Does a Solar Panel Installation Kentucky Last?
In recent years, solar panels have gained immense popularity as an eco-friendly, low-maintenance energy solution in Kentucky. While they have warranties of 25–30 years, their life can be extended even further with proper care. The longer your solar panels consistently generate electricity, the more substantial your long-term savings will become. This article will explore various factors that impact the lifespan of solar panels and ways to make your solar panel installation Kentucky last longer.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last in Kentucky?
Solar panels of high quality have the potential to last for as long as 50 years, although most manufacturers officially warranty them for a period of 25 to 30 years. According to EnergySage, under this warranty, the panels are guaranteed to maintain a 90% power output for the first decade and an 80% power output throughout the entire 25-year period. However, it’s important to note that solar panels don’t suddenly stop working once they reach the 25-year mark; instead, they experience a gradual decline in efficiency and energy production. In comparison, inverters have a shorter lifespan of 10-15 years due to the constant work required to transform solar energy from the panels into electricity.
What Factors Affect the Durability of Solar Panels?
Certain factors impact the lifespan of solar panels, such as climate, the quality of the installation process, photovoltaic panels used, and more. These parameters not only affect your panels’ durability but can also have a broader impact on the overall efficiency of your entire solar energy system. We have listed a few of them below:
Quality of the Panels
High-quality solar panels Kentucky have a long lifespan due to their superior design, advanced solar cell technology, and durable materials. Investing in top-rated PV panels is a strategic move to protect them against rapid degradation for their longevity. Although all solar panels experience a gradual loss of efficiency, the quality of the panels determines the rate of this decline and how long your solar panel system lasts. On the other hand, low-quality panels become more susceptible to damage and degradation, leading to shorter lifespans.
Professional Solar Panel Installation Process
For solar panels in Kentucky, professional installation is an important factor in preserving their long-term effectiveness. Properly selected inverters and precisely angled panels are key components of the process that contribute to the extended lifespan of your solar system. In contrast, subpar installation practices increase the risk of damage to panels, causing them to shift, crack, or even detach from their mounts due to insecure attachment. An experienced professional installer ensures the correct and secure electrical connections and the safe arrangement of wires during the process.
The Climate of Your Area
Excessive heat can cause stress on the panel’s materials, while extreme cold may affect their efficiency. Prolonged exposure to such weather conditions, including severe storms, hail, and strong winds, can lead to faster degradation of solar panels and wear down the protective layers of all components. Therefore, in areas with challenging weather conditions, such as Kentucky, it becomes crucial to implement proactive measures that safeguard and prolong the lifespan of solar panel installations.
How Can You Make Your Solar Panels Last Longer?
Investing in top-quality solar panels for your home is a significant commitment, and naturally, you want to maximize the return on that investment by ensuring their longevity. While it’s impossible to prevent panel degradation entirely, these preventive measures can help slow down the process and make your panels function efficiently for longer.
Protect Your Solar Panels from Damage
Taking measures to protect your solar panels from physical harm is a key strategy in ensuring their long-lasting energy production. One way is to ensure that large trees or obstructions that could cast shadows or drop branches on your panels are not in close proximity. Also, you can get your hands on products like solar panel critter guards that offer protection against specific types of physical damage. For example, these guards deter animals like squirrels and birds from harming the panels and wiring over time.
Professional Installers for Solar Panel Installation Kentucky
Professional installers bring expertise to your solar panel installation Kentucky. They comply with regulations and do not compromise with the standards and quality of work, assuring that the PV system will perform efficiently for years. This commitment to quality ensures that your solar panel system is designed for longevity from the outset. They can advise you on the optimal maintenance schedule and tasks to keep your panels in excellent condition throughout their lifespan.
Keeping the Panels Clean and Well-Maintained
Addressing potential issues and cleaning the panels regularly helps extend the lifespan of solar panels. Even though photovoltaic panels do not require much maintenance, they are not maintenance-free. Over time, dirt, dust, bird droppings, leaves, or other debris can accumulate on the panel’s surface. These contaminants can obstruct sunlight from reaching the solar cells, reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning removes these obstructions, ensuring optimal energy absorption for longer.
Inspection of Your PV Panels
Regular inspections of your solar panel installation Kentucky are a proactive measure aimed at preserving the durability of your PV panels. These inspections encompass a thorough check for concerns like insecure racking and exposed wires, which, if overlooked, may escalate into more significant problems over time. The primary benefits of these inspections include the early detection of the issues. Additionally, by evaluating the condition of solar inverters, these inspections help prevent unexpected system downtime and increase the lifespan.
Conclusion
Investing in solar panels Kentucky is a smart idea for long-term benefits. While all panels naturally degrade over time, you have the power to extend their lifespan through regular maintenance and following some simple steps. Opting for high-quality photovoltaic panels from a reputable company is a crucial initial step. Remembering these valuable points, you can expect your solar panels to serve you well for 25-30 years or even longer. Also, with proper maintenance and occasional cleaning, you can ensure the durability of solar panel installation Kentucky.
