4 Signs Your Solar Panels Are Wearing Out
Solar panels are a great investment for those looking to become more energy-independent. As with any new addition, though, it’s not an invincible structure and will get worn down in time.
In this post, Green Air Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. lists the four tell-tale signs that your solar panels are nearing the end of their lifespan.
- Physical Deterioration: This is one of the more obvious signs but it’s easy to miss if you aren’t looking in the right place. Don’t inspect the structure holding the panels but at the panels themselves for physical deterioration. Scratched and shattered panels should be replaced accordingly to get the most out of your photovoltaic system.
- Panel Age: A properly installed solar panel has an average life span of 20 to 30 years. Despite this, the effectiveness of the panel in terms of producing electricity will start to wane after 25 years. This is due to slow changes in the actual photovoltaic silicon material. We recommend new solar installation once you start seeing diminishing returns from your existing solar panel rig.
- Auxiliary Components: In some cases, you’ll see less output not because of a problem with the actual solar panels but with its related components. The reduced output may originate from the inverter or the inverter electronics. Similarly, lead batteries that you use to produce electricity at night have relatively shorter lifespans and they might be the source of the problem. Check these auxiliary components before moving on to the solar panel.
- Damage to the Rig: Finally, check if there’s damage to the actual rig or the structure holding the panels. They just may be the culprit.
As your local solar panel company, Green Air Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. is ready to assist you with your solar panel needs and concerns. Call us today at (925) 954-9998 to learn more about our services. We install solar panels throughout Oakland and other parts of California.
