Solar Panel Warranties Explained (Before You Sign)

A solar system is a 25+ year investment, so the warranties matter as much as the price. There are three separate ones to understand — and they’re not the same thing.

1. Product (equipment) warranty

Covers defects in the panels themselves.

• Commonly 12–25 years, depending on the manufacturer (premium brands lean toward 25).
• If a panel fails due to a manufacturing defect, this covers a replacement.

2. Performance (power output) warranty

Guarantees the panels still produce a minimum percentage of their rated output over time.

• Typically guarantees around 85–90% output at 25 years, reflecting normal degradation.
• If panels degrade faster than promised, you have a claim.

3. Workmanship (installer) warranty

Covers the installation — roof penetrations, wiring, mounting.

• Provided by the installer, not the manufacturer, and varies widely (often 5–25 years).
• This is where a good installer matters: a leak or wiring fault is a workmanship issue.

Don’t forget the inverter

The inverter has its own warranty and is the part most likely to need replacement. String inverters often run ~10–15 years; microinverters frequently ~25 (see inverter types).

Questions to ask before signing

• How long is each warranty — product, performance, workmanship, and inverter?
• Who handles a claim, and who pays labor and shipping on a replacement?
• Is the workmanship warranty tied to the installer still being in business? What if they close?
• Is the warranty transferable if you sell the home? (Important for resale value.)

Bottom line

Compare quotes on all the warranties, not just price — and favor an installer with a strong workmanship guarantee and a track record. Then run your numbers with the Solar Savings Calculator.

Educational information only. Always read the actual warranty documents before purchase.