Solar panels typically carry two separate warranties, and confusing them causes most post-install disputes.
The two warranties
- Product warranty — usually 10–12 years, covers manufacturing defects.
- Performance warranty — usually 25 years, guarantees output above a set %.
- Inverters carry a separate, shorter warranty (5–10 years).
"A 25-year warranty doesn't mean the panel is replaced free for 25 years — it means output is guaranteed."
| Component | Typical warranty |
|---|---|
| Panel (product) | 10–12 yrs |
| Panel (performance) | 25 yrs |
Understand what "25 years" really means in Solar Panel Degradation Explained.