Florida has an average of 250 days of sunshine a year. This makes it the ideal climate for solar energy. Solar panels can convert that endless sunshine into electricity for up to 30 years for each panel. The lifespan of your solar panels and their efficiency during that time relies on solar panel longevity. Understanding your solar panel lifespan, including what can shorten or lengthen your panels’ years of top performance, is the key to long-term energy efficiency for your Florida home.
Florida’s Climate Impact on Solar Panels
Florida is a great place to generate solar power, but the climate can also pose a challenge for solar panel maintenance. Intense UV from the sunlight can degrade solar materials, as can the humidity and the salt in the air. Each has an impact on solar panel durability. It is even possible for solar panels to overheat. Solar panels may also be at risk from storms if not properly secured and protected.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Lifespan
Solar panels are very efficient, but they slowly lose efficiency over time. That is why they often come with a warranty for up to 80% efficiency for 25-30 years. This is known as panel degradation.
Factors that can reduce panel degradation include high-quality panels and materials, expert installation, and regular maintenance.
Protecting Your Solar Investment
The good news is that there are ways to extend your solar panel lifespan and improve its efficient longevity.
Routine Cleaning
Regularly wipe down or hose off your solar panels to remove dust and debris that can block their efficiency.
Weather Protection
Protect your solar panels from the often intense Florida weather. Apply a UV-resistant coating to resist the one downside of endless sunshine. If a hurricane or hail storm is on the way, you can also cover your panels to protect them from the worst of the bad weather. Solar panels are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, but a little care can go a long way.
Warranties and Insurance
Ensure that your panels are fully protected from damage or malfunction. Good warranties and insurance coverage will provide the funds, repairs, or resources you need if something goes wrong – protecting the overall performance of your solar panel system.
Regular Panel Inspections
Schedule a solar panel inspection once a year, alongside your annual roof inspection. Regular inspections can catch small issues early before they become major problems or put your panels at risk. Loose mountings, pinched wires, and early signs of weather damage can be easily fixed and protect your panel longevity as a result.
Routine Maintenance and Prompt Repairs
Along with your inspections, be sure to schedule routine panel maintenance and promptly take care of any recommended repairs.
Periodic System Upgrades
Lastly, watch for potential upgrades to your solar electrical system. The technology is improving with every year and you could potentially extend your solar panel longevity with upgrades in the future.
Extending the Life of Florida Solar Panels
With inspections, maintenance, and routine care, you can ensure that your Florida solar panels achieve the best performance for the full duration of their lifespan. Of course, it all starts with choosing high quality panels and a skillful installation process. When you invest in proper installation and maintenance, you will enjoy the greatest efficiency and longevity from your solar panel system.
Contact us today to get a free quote on a solar panel system.
