KEY POINTS
- Solar panels have a lifespan of between 25 to 30 years.
- You should consider replacing your panels if they have physically deteriorated, the panels’ performance and output has significantly decreased, or if they’ve reached the 25 to 30-year mark.
- The cost of replacing solar panels will depend on your warranty, how many panels need replacing, and the type of panels you have.
Solar panels generally have a lifespan of between 25 and 30 years. But should you replace your solar panels more frequently? And what are the signs that it might be time to install new solar panels on your roof?
Contrary to what some people think, solar panels are not a set-and-forget system. Not only do panels require the occasional maintenance check and, in some cases, a solar monitoring set-up, but eventually they also may need to be replaced. This Canstar Blue guide gives a rough estimate and shares some tell-tale signs that it might be time to replace your solar panels.
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Do you have to replace solar panels?
Eventually, yes you will have to replace your solar panels. While they are designed to last for a long period of time, unfortunately solar panels don’t last forever and their efficiency to convert sunlight into electricity will eventually begin to degrade.
How often do solar panels need to be replaced?
Solar panels are typically replaced when they become damaged or stop working effectively. Generally, this can be rounded up to every 25 years or so. However, the replacement window may be shorter if there are major defects or damage.
There are some solar systems that can last up to 50 years, depending on the weather and performance conditions of the system. Solar panels reduce their efficiency as they age, and older panels won’t be as efficient as brand new ones, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll stop working completely.
For the most part, if there isn’t significant damage, then replacing solar panels will come down to a matter of personal preference.
Replacing solar panels
There are some key indicators that it might be time to replace your solar panels:
- Performance and output have decreased: If you notice that your solar panels are not producing as much energy as they were before, this can be an indicator that there may be an issue. Rather than replacing the whole panel, it might be as simple as replacing a part or cleaning your solar panels. The best way to tell is to consult a professional.
- Physical deterioration: Things like weather, debris and other objects can play an important role in the preservation of solar panels. For example, if an accident were to occur and damage the glass on the panel, then it could cause an issue as water may get into the panel and cause major damage. Other physical giveaways that there may be an issue include discolouration or burn marks. This is where regular solar panel maintenance will come in handy.
- Age: Solar panels generally last between 25 and 30 years. Beyond this time, they start to degrade and their performance and output can decrease significantly.
There are other components of a fully functioning solar energy system that may need to be replaced before the actual panel. These include fittings or the solar inverters, so keep those in mind to get the most out of your solar investment.
Compare solar prices and plans
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Solar panel replacement cost
The cost of a solar panel replacement ultimately comes down to two things: whether the warranty still applies and how many panels need replacing. If there are only one or two panels that need replacing within the warranty period, it’s simply a matter of replacing the damaged solar panels. If your panels have been damaged by weather events or accidents, you may also be able to claim the replacement costs through home insurance or solar panel insurance.
However, with solar panel technology constantly evolving, it can sometimes be a little more complicated. If the model of solar panel you have has changed in some way since your installation – for example, the sizing and dimensions have changed or the product has been discontinued – it can be harder to find an exact replacement.
There are lots of reasons why replacing single panels may be more difficult than it sounds, but the best way to know what you are up against is by contacting a reputable retailer.
How can I extend the life of my solar panels?
The number one way to extend the life of your solar panels is to work with a trusted installer to ensure that your solar panels are top quality and that the installation is up to scratch.
Alternative solutions include regular maintenance and installing a monitoring system so that if issues do occur, they can be dealt with swiftly.
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Should I look into solar panel replacement?
If you have old panels that aren’t functioning as well as they should be, it might be time for a solar panel replacement. The best way to know, however, is to get a professional to come and have a look at your system.
If you’re looking for a quality installer, be sure to check out our solar installer comparison below.
Compare Best-Rated Solar Installers
Image credits: Lisa F. Young/Shutterstock.com
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