How long is a typical warranty for solar panels?

Solar Panel Warranties: What UK Homeowners Need to Know

When you're investing thousands of pounds in solar panels for your home, understanding the warranty is absolutely crucial. The good news is that solar panel warranties are generally quite generous, but they're not as straightforward as you might expect.

Two Types of Warranty You'll Encounter

Solar panel warranties actually come in two distinct flavours, and it's important to understand both.

Product Warranty (10-15 Years)

The product warranty covers manufacturing defects and physical problems with the panels themselves. This typically runs for 10 to 15 years and protects you if panels crack, suffer weather damage they shouldn't, or develop electrical faults. Think of it as your safety net against dodgy manufacturing.

Performance Warranty (25 Years)

The performance warranty is where things get interesting. This usually lasts 25 years and guarantees that your panels will still produce at least 80-90% of their original power output after that time. Solar panels naturally degrade slightly over time - usually about 0.5% per year - so this warranty ensures they don't drop off a cliff performance-wise.

What These Warranties Actually Cover

The product warranty is fairly straightforward - if your panels break or stop working due to manufacturing issues, the manufacturer will repair or replace them. The performance warranty is more nuanced. If your panels are producing significantly less power than they should be (accounting for natural degradation), you can claim compensation.

However, both warranties typically exclude damage from extreme weather events, improper installation, or neglect. You'll need separate insurance for acts of God.

UK-Specific Considerations

In the UK, your warranty rights are bolstered by consumer protection laws. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have additional protection for the first six years after purchase. This can be particularly useful if you're dealing with an unresponsive manufacturer.

Many UK installers also provide their own workmanship warranties, typically lasting 2 to 10 years. This covers installation errors, roof damage, or wiring issues. Make sure you get this in writing - it's separate from the manufacturer's warranty.

Costs and What to Expect

Warranty claims shouldn't cost you anything if they're legitimate. However, you might face costs for:

• Independent assessments to prove underperformance (£200-500)
• Removal and reinstallation costs if panels need factory repair
• Scaffolding for roof access (£300-800)

Some premium manufacturers include these costs in their warranty terms, so it's worth paying attention to the fine print.

Common Mistakes That Can Void Your Warranty

Don't fall into these traps:

• Forgetting to register your warranty - many manufacturers require registration within 30 days
• Using non-approved cleaners - stick to water and mild soap
• DIY repairs - even minor tinkering can void everything
• Ignoring maintenance - some warranties require annual inspections

Choosing Panels with Solid Warranties

Look for established manufacturers with UK offices or representatives. Companies like LG, Panasonic, and SunPower offer excellent warranties, but you'll pay premium prices. Mid-tier manufacturers often provide similar warranty terms at lower costs.

Check the manufacturer's financial stability too. A 25-year warranty isn't worth much if the company disappears in five years. Look for manufacturers who've been in business for at least a decade and have solid UK support networks.

Remember, your installer's reputation matters just as much as the manufacturer's warranty. A good installer will handle warranty claims on your behalf and stand behind their work. Always get multiple quotes and check references before committing.