How Often Do You Need to Repair or Replace Solar Panels?

May 1, 2023

a picture of a solar panel on a roof with blue sky in the background

*Updated January 28th, 2025
Solar panels are a fantastic investment—they save you money on energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and power your home with clean, renewable energy. But like any important home system, they do require a bit of upkeep to keep working their best. That brings up an important question: how often do you need to repair or replace solar panels?

The good news? Solar panels are built to be durable, with most systems lasting for decades. However, while they don’t need frequent repairs, wear and tear, weather damage, or other issues can occasionally crop up. Knowing how long your solar panels are designed to last, what maintenance they need, and when you might need repairs or a replacement can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the lifespan of solar panels, common signs they may need repairs, and how to tell when it’s time for a replacement. We’ll also share some practical tips to help you maximize the life of your solar energy system and ensure it continues to deliver reliable, cost-effective power for years to come.

What is the Average Lifespan of Solar Panels?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing or upgrading panels once their efficiency drops below 80%. For the majority of homeowners, this means solar panels will reliably produce energy for at least 25 years.

Think of it this way: after 25 years, your panels may still work, but they won’t generate as much power as they used to. Modern panels are designed to degrade very slowly—usually about 0.5% efficiency loss per year—so you’ll still see solid performance for decades before needing to think about replacements. Plus, many systems come with warranties that guarantee performance for 20–25 years, giving you peace of mind.

Do Solar Panels Require Regular Maintenance?

Unlike many other  home improvements, solar panels require very little maintenance. You may need to clean them off if there is a lot of debris (tree branches or leaves) or a heavy snowfall, but other than that, they require little to no maintenance. As long as the panels have full sun exposure, there’s not much else you need to do as they are self-sufficient. Whether you have to physically clear off your panels or not depends on your roof’s pitch. Most are steep enough that the debris falls off itself and snow melts on its own. If you live in an area with little rain or your roof is pitched so that nothing falls off even in rain, you may need to use a hose or leaf blower to remove the debris.

Can a Solar Panel lose Efficiency?

Yes, solar panels can lose efficiency over time, but the good news is that it happens very slowly. Modern solar panels are built to last and are designed with durability and long-term performance in mind. On average, solar panels lose about 0.5% of their efficiency per year, meaning it takes decades for them to reach a point where they’re no longer performing at their best.

If you’re wondering how long your panels will maintain maximum efficiency, it’s a good idea to check with your manufacturer. They can give you specific details about the expected lifespan and performance of your particular model. Most manufacturers guarantee their panels will operate at 80% efficiency or higher for at least 25 years.

Once a panel drops below 80% efficiency, it’s worth considering a replacement. While it might still work, it won’t produce as much power, which could affect your overall energy savings. Upgrading to newer panels can also mean benefiting from the latest technology and even greater efficiency. Regular checkups and maintenance can help you keep an eye on your panels’ performance so you know when it’s time to make a change.

Do Solar Panels come with a Warranty?

Most solar panels come with a few warranties – the equipment warranty and the performance warranty. The equipment  warranty covers  the actual equipment and usually lasts 10 – 12 years, promising peak performance throughout that time. The performance warranty ensures 90 percent efficiency for the first 10 years and 80 percent efficiency up to year 25. Like any warranty, though, each company has different factors, so make sure you read the fine print. Overall, solar panels should last a long time and require little to no maintenance. Talk with your installer about any specifics regarding your home, such as a tree too close to the house or the pitch of the roof that may require manual removal of debris or snow. Overall, though, once you  install solar panels, there is little to no work that panels require.

Conclusion

Solar panels are a long-lasting, low-maintenance investment that can power your home for decades, but like anything else, they do eventually lose a bit of their efficiency over time. The key to getting the most out of your system is staying proactive—keep an eye on their performance, schedule regular checkups, and don’t hesitate to consult your manufacturer or installer if you have questions. Remember, most panels will serve you well for 25 years or more, and even after that, they’ll still produce energy, just not at their peak efficiency.

When the time comes, upgrading your system can be a chance to take advantage of the latest solar technology. With proper care, your solar panels will keep delivering clean, reliable energy for years to come!

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