How Long Do Solar Panels Last in Ohio?

Ohio has been home to a lot of solar power growth over the years, with the cost of solar falling by around 11% the last 5 years. Even the Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Guardians have added solar panels courtesy of Pink Energy. If we can help them, we most likely can help you too, but let’s break down some lifetime factors to help you decide if our long-lasting solar panels are worth it for your Ohio home. 

The Life Expectancy of Solar Panels

The standard life cycle of the monocrystalline solar panels we install is 25-30 years, but they can actually continue to produce electricity past this time frame. The warranty information included with our solar panels explains the product and performance portions that are covered. 

What Is the Yearly Solar Panel Degradation Rate?

In comparison to many other products, solar panels lose performance at a very low rate over their lifespans. Solar panel degradation rates range from 0.3% per year up to 0.8%, with the average at about 0.5% per year. As long as they aren’t considerably dented or scratched, solar panels should continue to produce some amount of electricity. Since solar energy systems don’t have moving pieces, breaking isn’t usually an issue. 

For added peace of mind, the warranties on the solar panels we install guarantee that the panels will work at 85% efficiency or more for a minimum of 25 years⁶. They also cover potential problems like manufacturing issues, premature wear-and-tear and more⁶. That way, you can make sure that you can depend on our panels for years to come. 

How To Extend the Lifespan of Solar Panels

1. Maintain them

Our American-made panels are designed and built to withstand the weather conditions Ohio can throw at them — from rain and hail to various temperatures — and there’s very little maintenance needed to keep them working. 

We recommend that they’re cleaned 1-2 times a year, and that’s really just to ensure that leaves, dirt, pollen and the like don’t impact production by limiting sunlight access. You’re welcome to rinse them off from the ground with a hose, but remember that wind and rain will likely take care of most minor debris. 

Worried about snow in particular on panels? More often than not, wind or sunshine will take care of it. Plus, because solar panels are powered by light, not heat, they will continue to produce even on cold winter days. In fact, like most electronics, solar panels are actually more efficient at colder temperatures.

2. Invest in a backup battery

During times of higher solar production, you can store excess electricity for later usage with a Pink Energy battery. This way, you can potentially power parts of your home during a power outage or at night³. Plus, with net metering programs offered throughout Ohio, you may be able to exchange excess solar energy produced by your system for credit on your electric bills.

3. Get the solar system inspected

It doesn’t hurt to get a solar system check-up now and then. Just be sure to leave it to the professionals, as warranties can be affected if you end up doing more harm than good. Inspection of a solar system by a professional can ensure that any potential issues, like exposed wiring or loose racking, are accounted for. 

Long-Term, Cost-Effective Electricity for Your Ohio Home

With their lifetime being so substantial, getting a solar system in the Buckeye State makes a ton of sense in the long-term. It also doesn’t hurt that Ohio offers strong incentives like net metering and solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) that make going solar an even more appealing option. There’s the potential for lower electricity bills now and in the future, so contact Pink Energy for a free quote.