1. Types of Solar Warranties
Solar components come with different types of warranties, and it's crucial to distinguish them:
- Product Warranty (Materials & Workmanship)
Covers defects in materials and manufacturing. Typically lasts 10 to 15 years for panels and 5 to 10 years for inverters or batteries. - Performance Warranty
Guarantees that panels will maintain a certain output level over time. A standard is 25 years, with a linear power degradation guarantee (e.g., 90% output in year 10, 80% in year 25). - Installation Warranty
Offered by the installer, usually 1 to 10 years, covering workmanship issues such as mounting, wiring, or sealing.
2. Key Warranty Terms to Watch
- Degradation Rate: Check the panel's annual degradation rate — lower is better.
- Inverter Coverage: Inverters often have shorter warranties; extended coverage is sometimes optional.
- Transferability: A good warranty should remain valid even if you sell your house.
- Claim Conditions: Review whether you must register the product, use approved installers, or conduct regular maintenance.
3. What's Not Covered
Even comprehensive warranties have exclusions. Common ones include:
- Damage due to weather extremes (hail, lightning, typhoons)
- Improper installation by non-certified personnel
- Unauthorized modifications
- Lack of maintenance or negligence
4. How to File a Warranty Claim
If a product underperforms or fails, here's how to proceed:
- Document the Issue
Take photos, record error messages, and track performance drops. - Contact Your Installer First
For turnkey systems, installers usually handle initial assessments and claims. - Reach Out to the Manufacturer
Provide proof of purchase, installation documents, and any diagnostics. - Follow Up in Writing
Keep all communications via email for recordkeeping. - Seek Local Support
Brands with authorized local partners or service centers offer faster response.
5. What a Reliable Warranty Looks Like
Component | Standard Warranty | Premium Warranty |
Solar Panel | 10–12 years (product) / 25 years (performance) | Up to 25 years (product) / 30 years (performance) |
Inverter | 5–10 years | Up to 15 years |
Battery | 5–10 years | Up to 15 years |
Installation | 1–5 years | Up to 10 years |
Tip: Leading brands like Jinko, LONGi, and Huawei offer extended product and performance warranties backed by global service networks.
6. Sunpal's Commitment to Warranty & Support
At Sunpal, we ensure:
- Certified, high-quality components with reliable warranties
- Clear warranty documentation provided at purchase
- Top-notch service teams to support product performance and address issues quickly
- Online support for warranty registration and claims
For any quality-related concerns, Sunpal customers can reach our support team 24/7 via phone, email, or our service portal.
7. Final Tips
- Register your products immediately after installation.
- Keep all receipts, invoices, and system documentation.
- Choose suppliers with proven after-sales service and long-term market presence.