Lifespan of a solar device

How long do solar panels last?

While solar panels can last 25 to 30 years or more, inverters generally have a shorter life, due to more rapidly aging components. A common source of failure in inverters is wear and weathering on the capacitors in the inverter. The electrolyte capacitors have a shorter lifetime and age faster than dry components, said Solar Harmonics.

How long do solar inverters last?

String inverters generally have standard warranties ranging from five to 10 years, and many have the option to extend to 20 years. Some solar contracts include free maintenance and monitoring throughout the term of the contract, so it is wise to evaluate this when selecting inverters. Microinverters have a longer life.

How long do solar batteries last?

Solar batteries don’t last as long as solar panels because they degrade more quickly. A solar panel’s main components – aluminium, glass, plastic, and silicon – will all outlast the panel itself, and can be recycled once it’s dismantled. A battery’s components simply last for less time – though as we’ve covered above, the technology is improving.

How do you measure a battery's lifespan?

If you want a more accurate way of measuring a battery’s lifespan, you can track the number of total cycles it’s performed – meaning the amount of times it charges up and discharges.

How long do string inverters last?

EnergySage said that a typical centralized residential string inverter will last about 10 to 15 years, and thus will need to be replaced at some point during the panels’ life. String inverters generally have standard warranties ranging from five to 10 years, and many have the option to extend to 20 years.

How long do microinverters last?

Microinverters have a longer life. EnergySage said they can often last 25 years – nearly as long as their panel counterparts. Usually, these inverters have a 20 to 25-year standard warranty included.