When investing in solar, understanding what is covered if something goes wrong is just as important as the system’s design. Solar warranties are generally split into two categories: Equipment Warranties and Performance Guarantees.
The equipment warranty covers the physical components of your system—panels, inverters, and racking— against manufacturing defects and premature failure.
What it covers: Manufacturing errors, wiring failures, abnormal degradation, and component defects.
Typical Duration:
What it doesn’t cover: Weather damage (handled by homeowners insurance) or improper installation (covered by workmanship warranties).
A performance guarantee ensures your panels produce a specific amount of electricity over time, accounting for natural degradation.
How it works: Manufacturers guarantee a percentage of original output after a set number of years (e.g., 90% at year 10, 80% at year 25).
The “True-up”: If panels underperform due to premature degradation, the manufacturer may repair, replace, or compensate for lost production.
Why it matters: Ensures long-term efficiency and protects your expected savings.
Workmanship warranties cover installation-related issues—roof leaks, loose hardware, or faulty electrical connections.
Duration: Typically 5–10 years. Longer warranties often indicate higher-quality installers.
The Bottom Line: Keep digital copies of all warranty documents. Solar is a long-term investment, and clear coverage ensures your home-power system stays reliable for decades.