What is the warranty coverage for solar panels installed by your company in Maryland?
Author : Andrew Garfield | Published On : 24 Apr 2024
When considering the installation of solar panels in Maryland by a solar company, it's essential to understand the comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your investment. Solar energy systems are significant financial commitments, and the warranty terms can significantly impact their long-term viability and efficiency.
1. Types of Warranties Offered
Most solar energy systems come with three main types of warranties:
- Product (or Manufacturer) Warranty: This covers defects in the solar panels themselves. Typically, manufacturers offer a product warranty that lasts between 10 to 25 years. If the panels fail due to manufacturing defects, poor quality, or environmental issues, the manufacturer will replace, repair, or reimburse the defective components.
- Performance Warranty: Solar panels naturally degrade in performance over time. Performance warranties guarantee that the solar panels will not fall below a certain performance level—commonly 80-90% of their original output—over a specific period, usually 25 years. This warranty ensures that the solar panels installed by a solar company in Maryland maintain a predictable output, securing your investment against underperforming technology.
- Workmanship Warranty: Provided by the solar installers, this warranty covers labor-related defects in installation, including issues with mounting hardware or electrical wiring. Workmanship warranties typically last from 1 to 10 years, depending on the installer. This is especially crucial when selecting solar installers in Newport News Virginia, as good workmanship can significantly affect the efficiency and longevity of your solar installation.
2. Coverage Specifics in Maryland
The state of Maryland offers additional consumer protections that might enhance the standard warranty terms, such as safeguards against premature wear and tear and additional coverage for components not typically included in standard manufacturer warranties.
For instance, Maryland's regulations might stipulate additional inspections and maintenance as part of the workmanship warranty, ensuring that any issues due to installation are addressed promptly and don’t lead to larger system failures.
3. How to Claim a Warranty
To claim a warranty, follow these general steps:
- Document the Issue: Keep a record of all performance metrics and any visible defects. Photographic evidence can be useful.
- Contact the Service Provider: Reach out to the solar company that installed your panels or the manufacturers if it's a product warranty issue.
- Review Warranty Terms: Ensure that the issue is covered under the terms of your warranty.
- Schedule an Inspection: The company will likely send a technician to inspect the solar installation and verify the issue.
- Resolution: If the claim is validated, the company will repair, replace, or reimburse you according to the warranty terms.
4. Limitations and Exclusions
Be aware of what the warranty does not cover. Most warranties do not cover damages resulting from natural disasters, vandalism, or unusual environmental conditions. Additionally, the warranty may be void if the solar panels are tampered with by unauthorized personnel, or if preventive maintenance guidelines provided by the installers are not followed.
5. Transferring a Warranty
Warranty transferability is an important feature if you plan to sell your property. In Maryland, solar panel warranties are generally transferable to the new homeowner, which can increase the property's value and attractiveness.
Conclusion
The warranty coverage for solar panels in Maryland is designed to give homeowners peace of mind, ensuring that their solar systems perform optimally over a long period. When choosing a solar provider, carefully consider the extent and limitations of warranty coverage offered. This ensures your solar investment is protected and continues to provide environmental and financial benefits for years to come.
This detailed guide provides an overview of the typical warranty coverage for solar panels in Maryland and should help potential buyers and current owners understand their coverage options.
