How long do solar panels and batteries last?

Solar and batteries are long-term investments, so it's worth knowing how long each part lasts and what's covered if something goes wrong. The short version: panels last the longest, inverters and batteries have shorter lives, and the warranty is only as good as the company behind it.

Solar panels

Quality panels are built to last decades. They slowly lose a small amount of output each year, which is why panel warranties come in two parts:

• Product warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Quality panels commonly carry around 25 years.
• Performance warranty guarantees the panel will still produce a set percentage of its original output after a set period, commonly 25 to 30 years.

We use Trina, Jinko and Aiko panels because they have a solid local presence and a track record of supporting warranty claims in Australia.

Inverters

The inverter does a lot of work and is usually the first part of a solar system to need replacing. Standard inverter warranties are generally much shorter than panel warranties, though many brands offer extended options. Microinverters, like Enphase, often come with longer manufacturer warranties than typical string inverters. SolarEdge systems include separate warranties on the inverter and the power optimisers. Check the current terms for your exact model, and see our guide to microinverters vs string inverters.

Home batteries

Battery warranties are usually around 10 years and include a capacity guarantee, meaning the battery should still hold a set percentage of its original capacity at the end of the warranty. Some warranties are also limited by "throughput", the total energy cycled through the battery, so heavy daily use or VPP participation can matter.

Heat, how deeply the battery is cycled and the conditions where it's installed all affect lifespan. That's one reason we take care with where your battery goes. We install Tesla, Sigenergy, FoxESS and Sungrow batteries.

Workmanship

Product warranties cover the equipment. The installation itself is covered by your installer's workmanship warranty. Ask how long it is and what it covers. With our own in-house electricians, you deal with the team who did the work, not a subcontractor.

The Australian Consumer Law

On top of manufacturer warranties, the Australian Consumer Law gives you automatic guarantees that products are of acceptable quality and fit for purpose for a reasonable time, depending on what you paid and what you were told. These rights apply regardless of the warranty period.

Keeping things running

• Check your monitoring app now and then for drops in output or error messages.
• Keep panels clear of heavy build-up. Rain does most of the cleaning in many areas.
• Have the system inspected periodically, especially if it's more than a few years old.
• Keep your paperwork: invoices, warranty documents and serial numbers.

Thinking of upgrading an older system? See our solar page or get a free quote.

Frequently asked questions