Solar Panel Warranties Decoded: Performance or Product?

Looking to learn more about the intricacies of solar panel warranties in order to have a more successful solar power system investment? There are two separate solar warranties to consider: the performance warranty and the product warranty. While these sound quite similar, there are a few nuances that make it beneficial for you to be aware of which one is which, when you are making a solar power system investment. Understanding the differences can help you to know which solar panel manufacturer can deliver the type of solar warranty that will ensure the best value for your new solar power setup.

Performance Warranty: Long-term Efficiency Assurance

A performance warranty is provided to ensure the longevity of your panels. Typically, it covers a period of 25 years and guarantees that your solar cells will only decrease in their ability to provide power under the stipulated percentage. If your panels are underperforming beyond the standards, you have the right to submit a claim.

However, keep in mind that there are limitations to performance warranties. Most have many conditions, making claims difficult to prove. In some cases, you’ll have to pay for the removal and peg testing of panels to verify a performance claim, but the bonus that you’ll earn might not cover these costs, so do the math. So although a performance warranty may appear to be a better deal, most of the time it is less protective of your investment.

Product Warranty: Protection Against Manufacturing Defects

The warranty specifically covers defects of manufacture, workmanship or material. Similar to the warranty on a car or other electronics or home appliance, product warranties are governed by Australian consumer law. A robust product warranty that aligns with the promoted lifetime of the solar panels (generally 25 years) is a strong indicator of a safe investment.

All else being equal, this type of warranty is usually easier to claim than the performance type. If the solar panels have any commercial defect or lack of workmanship in manufacturing, the product warranty should cover the replacement or the repair, which offers more tangible protection of your solar system.

Choosing the Right Panels and Manufacturers

You’ll also want to have strong product warranties from manufacturers likely to still be in business to honour them. Solar is a rapidly evolving market with more than its share of companies that have come and gone. A warranty from a bankrupt company is as good as worthless. So, research manufacturers’ track records and financial fitness to ensure they’ll be around to pay up.

Conclusion

Though performance and product warranty are both protection, product warranty is more reliable and practical for beneficial covering in manufacturing defects. While performance warrant is protection during or after a live performance, product warranty is explanation and promise of continuous protection for customers once a product is purchased. On the one hand, product warranty is more reliable because it guarantees customer satisfaction like no matter how the dance was performed, if something goes wrong, the warranty covers. On the other hand, product warranty is more practical because if things go wrong, the customer can just call the company and ask for the coverage.

Key Learnings and Actionable Insights:

• Understand the differences between performance and product warranties.
• Be cautious of the limitations and conditions attached to performance warranties.
• Opt for solar panels with strong product warranties from reputable manufacturers.
• Research the longevity and reputation of the solar panel manufacturers.

Warranties on products and well-established manufacturers help you to assure your solar investment, allowing you to sleep easy for many years to come.