As families across Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s a natural time to think about the things that last.
For homeowners considering solar, that’s one of the biggest questions of all: How long will these panels actually last?
The answer is one of solar’s best features. Here’s what research shows about solar panel lifespan, how performance changes over time, and what to expect from inverters and warranties.
The Short Answer: Decades
Most residential solar panels are built to produce power for 25 to 30 years or more. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the industry standard for solar panel manufacturer warranties is 25 years.
And 25 years isn’t an expiration date. Panels don’t suddenly stop working when the warranty ends. They keep producing electricity, just a little less than they did when they were new.
How Much Do Solar Panels Slow Down Over Time?
All solar panels lose a small amount of output each year. This is called degradation, and it happens gradually.
According to NREL research:
- Solar panels typically lose about 0.5% of their output per year.
- At that rate, a 20-year-old panel can still produce about 90% of its original output.
- Some higher-quality panels degrade even more slowly, about 0.3% per year.
In other words, a well-made system will still be producing most of its original power decades from now.
Do Solar Panels Fail Often?
Very rarely. In NREL’s research, the median failure rate was about 5 panels out of every 10,000 per year. Solar panels have no moving parts, which is a big reason they hold up so well.
They’re also built tough. Panels are designed to stand up to rain, wind, hail, heat and cold. Here in the Midwest, they handle snow better than most people expect. (See Snow on Your Solar Panels?) Cold weather can even help efficiency, which we cover in 5 Misconceptions About Solar Power in the Midwest.
The Inverter: The Part That May Need Replacing First
Your solar system is more than just panels. The inverter converts the electricity your panels make into the type of power your home uses.
Inverter lifespans depend on the type:
- String (central) inverters handle the output of many panels at once and typically last around 10 to 15 years. Many homeowners can expect to replace one during the life of their system.
- Microinverters sit on or near each individual panel. They’re designed for a much longer life, and many come with warranties of up to 25 years. Systems built on Enphase technology use microinverters; learn more about Enphase Ensemble.
When you compare quotes, ask what type of inverter is included and what its warranty covers.
Understanding Solar Warranties
Solar systems typically come with several kinds of protection. It pays to know what each one covers:
- Product (equipment) warranty: covers defects in the panels themselves.
- Performance (power output) warranty: guarantees panels will still produce a certain percentage of their rated output after a set number of years, often 25.
- Inverter warranty: covers the inverter; length varies by type and manufacturer.
- Workmanship (installation) warranty: covers the quality of the installation itself, offered by your installer.
A warranty is only as strong as the company behind it, which is why choosing an experienced solar company matters.
What Helps Solar Panels Last Longer
Solar panels need very little maintenance, but a few things help:
- Quality equipment. Better panels and inverters tend to degrade more slowly and come with stronger warranties.
- Professional installation. Proper mounting, wiring and roof sealing protect both your system and your home.
- Monitoring. Keep an eye on your system’s monitoring app so you can spot any drop in production early.
- Clear surroundings. Keep trees trimmed back to reduce shading and debris.
- Gentle care. Let rain and snow do most of the cleaning, and avoid climbing on the roof yourself.
Long Life Means Long-Term Value
Because solar panels last for decades, the savings keep adding up year after year. A long-lasting system can also make your home more attractive to buyers if you sell; see Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value?
Built to Last, Installed With Care
Icon Solar has been installing solar systems for homeowners across Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana since 2009. We use quality equipment and professional installation practices designed for decades of reliable performance in Midwest weather.
Learn more about solar for your home or explore flexible financing options.
Get your free quote or call (866) 396-4266 to talk with our team.
From all of us at Icon Solar, Happy Thanksgiving!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do solar panels last?
Most residential solar panels are designed to produce electricity for 25 to 30 years or more. The industry standard for manufacturer warranties is 25 years, and panels typically keep working after the warranty ends, at slightly reduced output.
How much efficiency do solar panels lose each year?
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panels typically lose about 0.5% of their output per year. At that rate, a 20-year-old panel can still produce about 90% of its original output.
How long do solar inverters last?
String (central) inverters typically last about 10 to 15 years. Microinverters are designed for longer life, and many carry warranties of up to 25 years.
Do solar panels stop working after 25 years?
No. A 25-year warranty isn’t an expiration date. Panels usually continue producing electricity after the warranty period, just at slightly lower output than when new.
How often do solar panels fail?
Rarely. NREL research found a median failure rate of about 5 panels out of 10,000 per year. Solar panels have no moving parts, which helps them last.
Something to Be Thankful For
Few home upgrades keep working, and saving, for as long as solar does. If you’ve been thinking about going solar, it’s an investment designed to serve your home for decades.
