What Type of Solar Panel Warranties Are Available for Irish Homeowners?

Raj Singh
September 6, 2024

Looking for warranties of solar panels for Irish homes? Solar panels are a big investment, and like any other major purchase, protecting them with a good warranty is key. For homeowners in Ireland, understanding the different types of solar panel warranties can help prevent unexpected repair costs and ensure your system runs smoothly for years. 

A solid warranty offers peace of mind, knowing that your panels are covered if something goes wrong. 

In this blog, you will discover the manufacturer, performance, & installation warranties for solar panels in Irish homes. Also learn about factors affecting these warranties. 

Let’s get into the details and protect your investment with confidence!

What Important Factors You Should Know About Solar Panel Warranties?

When choosing a solar panel warranty, Irish homeowners should pay close attention to several key factors to make sure they're fully protected. These factors will not only help you avoid surprises but will also give you the confidence to maximise the benefits of your solar investment.

1. Duration and coverage

The length of your warranty plays a huge role in how protected you are. Most reputable manufacturers offer warranties that last between 10 and 25 years, covering any defects in materials and workmanship.

It's also important to check if the warranty covers both parts and labour. Some warranties only cover the parts, leaving you responsible for the installation or shipping costs of replacements.

Additionally, performance warranties typically promise that your panels will still generate a significant portion of their original capacity after 25 years. This coverage ensures you’ll continue saving on electricity for many years to come.

2. What’s excluded?

Not all damages are covered under solar warranties, so it's important to know what’s excluded. Natural disasters such as floods or storms are usually not covered, along with any damage caused by improper installation or handling. Regular wear and tear may also not be covered, so knowing these exclusions upfront can prevent frustration later on.

Be sure to carefully read through the warranty document to avoid misunderstandings and hidden costs down the line.

3. Transferability

If you plan to sell your home at any point, check if the warranty is transferable to the new owners. A transferable warranty can make your home more attractive to buyers, as they’ll inherit the same level of protection for the solar panels. Without this feature, the warranty may become void when the property changes hands, which could diminish the value of your investment.

Having a transferable warranty can be a strong selling point and might even increase the resale value of your home.

Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision about your solar panel warranty.

What Type of Solar Panel Warranties Are Available?

When investing in solar panels, it’s essential to understand the different types of warranties that come with them. These warranties provide protection and peace of mind, ensuring your system runs smoothly for years. Let’s explore the three key types of warranties: Manufacturer's Warranty, Performance Warranty, and Installation Warranty.

1. Manufacturer's warranty

The Manufacturer's Warranty, also known as the product warranty, covers any defects or faults in the materials and workmanship of the solar panels. This typically lasts between 10 to 25 years, depending on the brand.

If your panel's frame, glass, or other physical components are damaged due to poor manufacturing, this warranty ensures that the panel will be repaired or replaced at no cost to you. However, this warranty doesn’t cover issues caused by external factors like storms or poor handling.

2. Performance warranty

A Performance Warranty guarantees that your solar panels will continue to generate a certain percentage of their original power output over a specific period, usually 25 years.

Most manufacturers promise that after 25 years, the panels will still produce around 80% of their original output. This warranty helps protect you from the natural degradation of the panels, ensuring that you continue to benefit from renewable energy without a significant drop in efficiency.

3. Installation warranty

An often overlooked but critical warranty is the Installation Warranty. This warranty is provided by the company that install your solar panels and covers any issues that arise from faulty installation, such as electrical issues or poor mounting.

These warranties typically last between 1 to 10 years, depending on the installer. Ensuring your panels are installed by certified professionals is crucial for this warranty, as improper installation can void both the manufacturer’s and performance warranties.

Having a clear understanding of these warranties will help you make a more informed decision when choosing your solar panels and installer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right solar panel warranty is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring long-term energy savings. Irish homeowners should understand the different types of warranties, including Manufacturer's, Performance, and Installation Warranties, to make informed decisions. Pay attention to the duration, coverage, and any exclusions to avoid unexpected costs. 

Proper installation and regular maintenance are also key to keeping your warranty valid and your solar system running efficiently. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy with confidence.

Looking to secure a reliable solar panel system for your home? Contact NuSolas Energy today to get expert advise and quality installation services!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical warranty period for solar panels?

Most solar panels come with two types of warranties: a performance warranty lasting 25-30 years and a product warranty covering defects and workmanship for 10-25 years.

What should I look for in a solar panel warranty?

Homeowners should look for coverage duration, what is included (performance, product, labour), and any exclusions or conditions, such as maintenance requirements.

What happens if a solar panel stops working within the warranty period?

If a solar panel fails during the warranty period, the manufacturer will usually repair or replace the panel at no cost, depending on the terms of the warranty.

Do solar panel warranties cover installation issues?

Solar panel warranties generally cover product defects and performance but may not include installation issues. However, some installers offer separate warranties for their work.

Are solar panel warranties transferable to a new homeowner?

Many solar panel warranties are transferable to new homeowners if the property is sold, but it’s important to verify the terms with the manufacturer or installer.

What is covered under a solar panel performance warranty?

A performance warranty ensures that solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their original efficiency, typically guaranteeing 80-90% efficiency after 25 years.

*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.
About Author
Raj Singh

A seasoned professional in the solar industry, Raj Singh is dedicated to illuminating Ireland with the power of the sun. His passion for renewable energy and commitment to sustainability shine through his work in the solar industry.