Solar Warranties Explained

Peace of Mind for Years: Solar Warranties Explained

In today's energy-conscious world, more homeowners are turning to solar technology to power their lives sustainably. Among the leaders in this green revolution, Solarnets and leading solar providers like Tesla Solar and Sun Run stand out for their innovative solutions and customer assurances. 

A comprehensive warranty is essential to ensure the long-term benefits of these investments. In this article, we'll explore the details of solar warranties, focusing on Solarnets Warranty, module manufacturers' warranties, and important solar warranty exclusions you should know about.

Understanding Solar Warranties

Solar warranties are designed to safeguard your purchase against defects and performance issues. They typically cover components like solar panels and inverters and sometimes workmanship. The lengths and terms of these warranties vary by manufacturer. They can be a deciding factor when choosing your solar system. 

Solar modules typically have a warranty statement for:

• manufacturing defects and 
• energy production.

Solar Module Manufacturing Defects Warranty

The manufacturing defects warranty covers everything from functionality to visual defects, and its terms of coverage vary from 10 to 15 years. Typical aspects of coverage may include paint quality, glass discoloration, and water resistance of the underside j-box.

Solar Module Energy Production Warranty

Energy production warranties become more technical, guaranteeing that energy production will not degrade by more than a certain amount per year. The assumption is that energy production will reduce over the years, and manufacturer’s warranty that it will not reduce by more than a specified value compared to the panel's original performance when new.

Figure 1 Example of Energy Production Warranty by Axitec Solar

Do these warranties cover broken glass on solar panels? 

By far, the most common failure of a solar panel is broken glass. Neither warranty covers glass broken by an impacting projectile, like a golf ball or large hailstone. Broken glass effectively terminates all manufacturer's warranty obligations. It is a virtual certainty that broken glass will reduce energy production.

Considering the above, let's move on to Tesla Solar's warranty policy. Tesla is a major player in the solar industry, offering state-of-the-art technology that integrates seamlessly with its energy storage solutions. Tesla provides a robust warranty that addresses many common concerns of solar panel owners, ensuring comprehensive coverage to protect your investment. However, they do not warranty against glass breakage.

Solar Warranty Exclusions: What's Not Covered?

From the above, it is evident that solar module warranties offer extensive coverage. Still, homeowners should be aware of specific exclusions. Knowing these exclusions is crucial for maintaining your warranty and avoiding unexpected costs. Preparing and understanding these exclusions can make the difference between success and failure in a warranty claim. 

Let's look at these exclusions below: 

• Acts of God and Environmental Damage

Natural disasters or environmental factors such as earthquakes, floods, or extreme weather conditions may not be covered under your solar warranty. If you live in a high-risk area, it's important to check the specifics of your policy and consider additional insurance.

Figure 2 Hail Damage to Home in Austin, TX

Hail damage caused by severe weather events falls into this category.  If hail damage occurs, it is virtually impossible to prove the hail was less than 1 inch (typically the limit in the warranty). The proof literally melts on the ground.  If there is damage from hail, it is assumed it is more significant than 1 inch in diameter.

• Unauthorized Modifications or Repairs

If you change your system or attempt

 repairs using non-approved service providers, your warranty could be voided. Always use authorized professionals for maintenance or repair to keep your warranty intact. 

Note that it is commonplace in the industry to have holes in the solar panel frame, usually by adding ground lugs or attachments to support structures. However, this is not the basis for automatically terminating all manufacturer's warranty obligations.

• Improper Use or Maintenance

Neglecting to care for your solar system according to the manufacturer's guidelines can lead to issues not covered by the warranty. Regular cleaning and inspections are recommended to ensure optimal performance and compliance with warranty terms.

Key to Preserving Your Solar Warranty

To maximize the benefits of your solar warranty, comprehend its terms and proactively maintain your system. Here's how you can ensure your warranty works for you.

• Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Engaging the services of a monitoring and 

maintenance company, like Solar Servco, will provide numerous benefits.  They perform periodic inspections and regular maintenance to catch potential issues early. 

Most importantly, a monitoring service will document your system production over time, and those records can be used to report any loss of output due to component degradation.  Documentation is the key to detecting solar panel energy production declines and supporting future warranty claims against the solar module manufacturer. 

• Protect your solar panels from being impacted by flying projectiles. 

SolarNets are the best way to ensure your solar panel warranty is not voided. Without protection, an impact that breaks the solar panel glass immediately voids the warranty.

Figure 4 Solar GolfNet protects solar panels.

This proactive approach extends the life of your solar system and ensures that you are always within the terms of your warranty.

• Keep Accurate Records

Maintain a file of all your solar system documents, including warranty details, receipts, and service records. Documenting solar energy production over time is the only way to detect a gradual reduction over time. Accurate documentation will be invaluable if you need to make a claim. 

• Understand the Claims Process

Familiarize yourself with filing a warranty claim with your provider. Knowing whom to contact and what information you'll need can streamline the process should any issues arise.

A solar panel manufacturer will first ask for "proof of failure" and photos. The photos reveal any physical damage that may have occurred. Secondly, they ask for "documentation" of the system's performance over time. 

The cruel reality is that you need to prove the failure was due to the solar module and not caused by any extraneous action or event. Even with such documentation, there is no guarantee your warranty claims succeed. 

The Best Outcome

Success in warranty negotiations results from module manufacturers verifying there is no damage to the solar panel glass and through documentation of system performance over time. Ultimately, the manufacturer installs replacement solar panels with no additional expense to the solar system owner.

Get The Solarnets Warranty Advantage

Solarnets warranty stands out for several reasons:

• Longevity: Their warranty period often exceeds the industry standard, highlighting their commitment to quality and customer service.
• Transferability: If you sell your property, the Solarnets warranty can be transferred to the new homeowner, adding value to your property.
• Zero Cost: Solarnets prides itself on offering a no-cost warranty, reducing the likelihood that you will face unexpected fees for covered repairs or replacements.
• Best Defense: SolarNets can prevent glass damage.

SolarNets are crucial to protecting your solar panel warranty. They can prevent broken glass, which would most certainly end your manufacturer's warranty coverage.

Why a Solid Warranty Matters?

Choosing a solar system with a robust warranty is not just about protecting against defects. It's about investing with a company that stands behind its products for the long haul. Whether you opt for Solarnets, Tesla Solar, or another provider, ensure you understand your warranty terms and any exclusions that apply.

Solar warranties like those from Solarnets and Solar Module Manufacturers offer peace of mind and a commitment to sustainability that extends far beyond the initial purchase. By taking the time to understand and maintain your solar warranty, you're safeguarding your investment and contributing to a greener, cleaner future.  

"SolarNets guard against immediate damage; the solar module manufacturer's warranty protects against failure over time!"

In conclusion, opting for a dependable solar warranty from reputable providers such as SolarNets, Tesla Solar, or Sun Run is essential for ensuring lasting satisfaction with your solar investment. These warranties guarantee optimal performance from your system, delivering clean energy and significant cost savings over the years. 

Safeguard your investment and experience peace of mind by choosing a trustworthy solar provider with a comprehensive warranty. Embrace sustainable living and secure your solar future today!

Ready to add Solarnets warranty protection? Talk to our solar experts today at +1 209-464-6100.