How do I know which panels are more durable?
When checking solar panel durability, you'll want to look at a few key things. Start with the warranties - decent panels come with 10-25 year product warranties and 25-year performance guarantees. The performance warranty is crucial because it tells you how much efficiency the panel will retain over time.
Pay attention to the degradation rate too. Most silicon panels lose about 15% of their power over 25 years, but higher-quality ones can lose as little as 2.5%. N-type panels are more resistant to degradation than P-type ones, though they cost more upfront.
Check the build quality - look for panels with robust weather seals and corrosion-resistant materials that can handle our unpredictable weather. Don't just go for the cheapest option, as you might end up with higher maintenance costs later. A good installer will know which brands perform well in your area and can point you towards panels that'll give you the best long-term value.
Interested in more details?
How to Spot the Most Durable Solar Panels for Your Home
When you're investing thousands in solar panels, you want them to last. But with so many brands and technical specifications floating about, how do you actually tell which ones will still be producing power in 25 years' time?
The good news is that most solar panels are pretty robust - they're designed to sit on your roof through decades of British weather. However, some are definitely more durable than others, and knowing what to look for can save you headaches and money down the line.
Check the Warranty Details (They Tell You Everything)
The warranty is your best clue about a panel's expected lifespan. Look for two types: the product warranty (covering manufacturing defects) and the performance warranty (guaranteeing power output over time).
Decent panels come with 10-12 year product warranties, but premium brands offer up to 25 years. The performance warranty should guarantee at least 80% of original output after 25 years. If a manufacturer won't back their panels for that long, that's a red flag.
Top tip: Read the warranty terms carefully. Some exclude damage from "normal wear and tear" or require specific maintenance schedules that void coverage if missed.
Understanding Degradation Rates
All solar panels lose efficiency over time - it's unavoidable. The question is how fast. Average crystalline silicon panels lose about 0.6% efficiency per year, meaning they'll produce roughly 85% of their original power after 25 years.
Premium panels with advanced technology can keep degradation as low as 0.25% annually. That might sound small, but over 25 years, you're talking about thousands of pounds in extra electricity generation.
Panels using Maxeon cell technology (found in SunPower panels) or those with PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology typically show better long-term performance, though they cost more upfront.
Material Quality Makes a Difference
Durable panels use higher-grade materials that resist corrosion and weather damage. Look for panels with robust aluminium frames (not plastic components), tempered glass fronts, and quality back sheets that won't yellow or crack over time.
The junction box - that little box on the back where wires connect - should be well-sealed and rated for outdoor use. Cheap panels often skimp here, leading to moisture ingress and early failures.
N-Type vs P-Type: The Technical Bit That Matters
Without getting too technical, N-type solar cells are generally more durable than P-type cells. N-type panels resist light-induced degradation better and typically last longer, but they cost 10-15% more.
P-type panels are fine for most installations, but if maximum durability is your priority and budget allows, N-type panels from manufacturers like Panasonic or SunPower are worth considering.
What to Avoid
Don't fall for panels that seem too cheap - they usually are. If a quote includes panels significantly below market rate (currently £0.30-0.70 per watt for quality panels), question why.
Avoid panels from manufacturers you've never heard of, especially if they don't have a UK presence. When things go wrong, you want someone local to handle warranty claims.
Be wary of panels with unusually short warranties or vague warranty terms. If a company won't clearly state what's covered and for how long, look elsewhere.
Getting Reliable Information
Your installer should provide detailed specifications and explain why they've chosen specific panels. Independent reviews on sites like Which? or solar industry publications give unbiased assessments.
Check manufacturer websites for technical datasheets - these contain degradation rates, temperature coefficients, and other durability indicators. If this information isn't readily available, that's another warning sign.
Remember, the most durable panels aren't always necessary. For most UK homes, mid-range panels from established manufacturers like LG, Panasonic, or Canadian Solar offer excellent durability at reasonable prices. The key is matching panel quality to your specific needs and budget, whilst avoiding the bottom-end products that might leave you with expensive problems later.
Liked the answer? Share it and help others!