While buying a solar panel system, it is useful to know the warranties offered by the various products included in the system and what they cover.
Product Warranty on the Panels
This type of warranty covers any manufacturing defects in the solar panels themselves. Most reputable manufacturers offer a product warranty of 10-12 years covering any faults due to manufacturing defects. This warranty does not cover any damage caused by accidents, storms etc.
Performance Guarantee
The performance guarantee will usually cover the panels for 25 years. Within this timeframe the manufacturer guarantees that the solar panels will still be producing a minimum percentage of their original power output. Common percentage guarantees are 80% after 25 years or 85% after 25 years. Ensure you read the guarantee carefully and understand the percentage guarantee the manufacturer is offering.
Inverter Warranty
Typically the inverter has a shorter warranty duration than the solar panels, commonly between 5-12 years. This is an item that will need to be replaced in the middle of the system’s life, so it’s worth checking whether extended warranty on the inverter is included in the initial price.
Workmanship Guarantee
A Workmanship Guarantee is given for the installation work itself and usually covers a minimum period of two years. This would cover things such as failure of a fixing or a poor roof seal for example. More on Solar Panel Installation Nailsea can be found at https://redbridgeandsons.co.uk/solar-pv-panels/solar-panel-installation-nailsea/.
Ask for Everything in Writing
Before work begins on your installation request that all warranties are supplied in written form and that you are advised as to the terms and conditions of transfer to subsequent householders including whether there is any restriction that such warranties only cover the original buyer.
This does not replace your statutory rights when buying goods and services.