When buying solar panels, whether for your home or business, you want to know you are getting the best value for your money. After all, solar panels are not cheap. Many homeowners and businesses simply wouldn’t be able to afford them if they need to be replaced every few years.
Going solar in Australia is especially tricky. In fact, Perth is one of the sunniest cities in the world, with over 3200 hours of sunshine annually. While there is plenty of sunlight to keep your lights on throughout the year, the weather conditions are also incredibly harsh on solar panels, increasing the risk of rapid deterioration.
With that being said, there are a number of ways in which you can ensure long-lasting and durable panels that will serve your home or business for years to come.
If you are in the market for new solar panels and live in the Perth area, you undoubtedly want a product that offers durability, longevity and great value for money. Luckily, Middle Swan Solar specialises in providing Perth residents with top-of-the-range panels, such as SunPower panels, specifically designed to withstand extreme Australian weather conditions.
Their panels generally last 25 to 30 years before experiencing significant energy loss. In fact, their warranty guarantees at least 80% efficiency after 25 years.
We already know that Perth’s climate is extreme. While many people love the long hours of sunlight, it is both a blessing and a curse for solar energy.
The abundant sunshine ensures optimal energy generation year-round, meaning that homeowners and businesses will be sure to get their money’s worth after going solar. More so, the mild winters ensure that panels can still operate efficiently, without the risk of snow or frost damage.
With that being said, solar panels lose efficiency as heat rises. While Middle Swan Solar products are designed and tested to withstand heat as much as possible, extreme conditions will always slightly reduce output.
Seasonal storms can also cause damage to solar panels in Perth through heavy rain, hail and strong winds. This is especially problematic if panels are not installed correctly.
Perth’s dry summers can also lead to dust buildup, which, over time, will reduce panel efficiency. For this reason, proper maintenance is required in order to prolong the lifespan of panels.
It is important to note that solar panels don’t simply stop working after 25 to 30 years. Instead, they simply lose efficiency, meaning that they will produce less electricity.
High-quality panels generally degrade at a rate of 0.30% per year. In other words, they will produce 0.30% less electricity with every year that passes. This means that after 25 years, these panels still produce roughly 92% of their original capacity.
On the other hand, lower-quality panels degrade faster, dropping below 80% of their original capacity after the 25-year mark.
Choosing a high-quality panel is essential in ensuring optimal efficiency. While they cost a bit extra, you will be sure to earn back any money spent in electricity savings. Moreover, these panels will require less maintenance and repairs, further adding to your overall savings.
Solar panel maintenance is key to maintaining the quality of your newly installed solar panels. As a general rule, they should be cleaned every 6 to 12 months in order to prevent dust buildup.
If you notice any of the following warning signs, your panels may need servicing or maintenance:
Solar panels in Perth usually last between 25 and 30 years, with lower-quality panels typically maintaining roughly 80% of their original capacity beyond the 25-year mark.
While the city’s sunny weather is ideal for electricity production, it can also damage solar panels if they are not properly maintained. Because of this, it is recommended that homeowners and businesses have regular professional maintenance to clean, adjust, and monitor the health of panels.
If you are looking for expert solar panel installation in Perth, Middle Swan Solar is the company for you.
