There are some long-term costs associated with solar panels. We will explain everything you need to know.

Repairs and maintenance of solar panels may increase over the years, but keeping them in good condition will help.

Many people know the upfront costs of installing solar panels, including the prices of systems, permits, and contractors. However, what is not often discussed is the ongoing cost of maintaining residential solar systems.

Fortunately, although there are some additional costs associated with keeping solar panels running, they are usually low and rarely occur. In addition, the benefits of solar energy almost always exceed the costs you incur during the decades-long life cycle of a solar system.

In any case, it is important to understand all potential costs before purchasing a solar system. The following is an overview of the additional costs to keep in mind when considering solar investments.

Read more: Want to know how long your solar panels can last? Find out here

Although the ability of solar panels to convert sunlight into usable energy is impressive, their structure is relatively simple, with no moving parts or complicated machinery. If installed correctly, the design life of solar panels can reach 20 to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about in terms of regular maintenance.

However, you need to pay close attention to the physical condition of the system to ensure that the panel is clean and free of debris. If your panels are dirty, you can let rainwater wash them naturally or use a garden hose (from the ground) to wash them. 

You should also observe the energy production level of the system to monitor any problems. Usually, the reduced power output is caused by short-term problems, such as rain or clouds blocking the solar panels. However, if these problems persist for a long time, it may indicate a problem with your panel.

Fortunately, the solar system warranty includes a performance guarantee. Therefore, assuming you are still within the warranty period, if your panel does not produce the power it deserves, you don't have to pay for repairs (more on this in the next section).

This is unlikely, but in some cases, you may need to repair or replace solar panels. There are many reasons for this, but the most likely culprit is damage caused by extreme weather, such as hail, lightning, or fallen trees. A defective panel may also be the culprit.

Most solar panel products have a warranty period of 10-25 years after installation, so if you are still within that period, your manufacturer should bear the repair costs due to accidental damage or defective goods. However, labor and transportation costs are not always included in the product warranty. If your warranty period has ended, you may have to pay for system repairs out of your pocket.

Fortunately, a broken panel does not necessarily mean you need to overhaul the entire system. In fact, even if one or two panels do not work, your entire system is likely to continue to generate electricity. However, you should contact your solar company as soon as possible to replace the panel. On average, the cost of a single solar panel is approximately US$225 to US$375.

In addition to maintenance and repairs, as a solar panel owner, you may or may not face some additional costs.

For example, you may want to hire a professional to clean your solar panels instead of cleaning it yourself. If so, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per cleaning.

If your property has tall trees that prevent sunlight from reaching the panels, you will also need to pay for tree pruning services. This should not be a big expense, but it is a factor that needs to be considered when calculating the ongoing cost of a solar system.

Let your home know the latest automation, security, utilities, networks, etc.

You cannot predict when a storm or abnormal accident may cause damage to your solar panels. However, you can take some precautions to minimize the risk of expensive repairs in the future.

At the very least, you should check the condition of the solar system at least once a week. You don’t have to go to the roof to inspect the panels, but you should walk around your house to make sure the panels are clean, free of cracks, and not completely covered by shadows. Any damage should be reported to your solar supplier to prevent more serious long-term problems.

Similarly, if you notice any animals around the system, please ask your solar installer whether to add a small animal protection device. Otherwise, local wild animals may settle under your panel, which may cause expensive repairs to chewing wires and panel damage (and pest control). The small animal shield also prevents debris from gathering under the panel, thereby reducing the risk of fire.

Finally, be sure to monitor how much energy your system generates every week. If you observe any major changes, there may be a problem with your solar panels, inverter, or solar cells (if any). Contact your solar supplier to troubleshoot and determine a solution.

Despite these additional costs, solar panels are still a popular choice for homeowners who want to reduce their utility bills. They are also an environmentally friendly solution for anyone trying to get rid of traditional energy and heating equipment.

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