Skip to main content
Sunrun
  • Contact Us 833-394-3384
  • Get a Quote
  • Plans & Services
      • Overview
      • Monthly Solar Lease
      • Full Amount Solar Lease
      • Monthly Solar Loan
      • Purchase Solar System
  • Why Sunrun
      • Overview
      • Our Guarantee
      • Our Customers
      • Careers
      • Make Moving Easy
  • Solar Storage
      • Overview
      • Tesla Powerwall
  • EV Charging
      • F-150 Lightning™
  • Plans & Services
      • Overview
      • Monthly Solar Lease
      • Full Amount Solar Lease
      • Monthly Solar Loan
      • Purchase Solar System
  • Solar Storage
      • Overview
      • LG Chem
      • Tesla Powerwall
  • Why Sunrun
      • Overview
      • Our Vision
      • Our Guarantee
      • Our Customers
      • Careers
  • Solar by state
  • Solar FAQs
  • Solar Education
  • Cost of solar
  • Contact us
  • Sign in
  • Get started
Find out the cost of solar for your home Learn more
Find out the cost of solar for your home Learn more

Can Solar Panels Break?

Linkedin Linkedin Facebook Facebook Twitter Facebook
can_solar_panels_break

How are Solar Panels Protected?

Solar panels are made of solar cells and encased in durable glass for protection. Beneath the glass there is a layer of insulation and a protective back sheet. This technology protects against heat and humidity inside the panels to keep your home solar system running smoothly. Your solar panels also have an anti-reflective coating that allows them to absorb maximum power from the sun.1

Guarding Against Physical Damage to Solar Panels

Your solar array is built to last.  Solar codes and standards are rigorous and the solar industry is committed to developing cutting-edge technology to make our planet a cleaner place to live.2

A typical solar array lasts 25-30 years, but this doesn’t mean they stop producing electricity. Solar experts report that panels can continue to work for many decades, provided you take care of them and they aren’t physically damaged.3

There are very few moving parts in a solar system, which means there are very few mechanical parts that could break. But there are some conditions that could cause physical damage.4

See if you qualify for the
26% federal tax credit

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
Do you own your home?
What is your average monthly electric bill?

By clicking below, I authorize Sunrun to call me and send pre-recorded messages and text messages to me about Sunrun products and services at the telephone number I entered above, using an autodialer, even if I am on a national or state “Do Not Call” list. Message and data rates may apply. Maximum 10 texts per month. Consent for calls & texts is optional. You can opt out anytime. You also agree to our Terms of Service.

Thanks so much! We'll call you shortly.

Sorry, we are not taking new customers in your area yet

 

Refer a friend. Get $1000

3 Common Ways Solar Panels Can Be Damaged:

Twigs, Leaves and Dirt:

Debris can scratch your solar panels and lower the amount of energy produced. Maintain the trees around your home so that branches and dirt don’t fall on your roof. Clean your solar panels with a garden hose and a soft cloth once a year for maximum efficiency.

Hail Storms:

Bad weather is damaging to all roofs, and hailstorms are no exception. Your solar technician should guide you toward the right solar set up if there is extreme weather in your area.

Water Damage:

Your solar panels are sealed just like your windows. Check the sealing just as you would your windows to ensure a water-tight fit.

Sunrun’s System Service Warranty Has You Covered

Most professional solar panel systems come with a 20 year warranty, at the minimum. But many rooftop solar systems continue to produce electricity even when the warranty ends, which can be upwards of 25-30 years.

That’s why we cover the lifetime of your system with select solar plans and offer a comprehensive 25 years service warranty.  This includes daily monitoring, free maintenance, repairs and comprehensive insurance! These options are only available to you with select solar plans. Compare our solar plans and services today. Our solar advisors are here to help, and answer any questions you have. 

References: 
  1. How do solar panels work? The science behind solar power generation
  2. Technical Documents - Solar Codes & Standards
  3. How long do solar panels last? Solar panel lifespan explained
  4. Common Causes of Damage to Solar Panels and How to Avoid Them

Sunrun Team

Feb 22, 2019

Recommended Articles

  • Take the Heat Out of Your Summertime Bills with Solar Energy

    Take the Heat Out of Your Summertime Bills with Solar Energy

    During the summer months, everyone is looking for ways to save while keeping their home cool and...

  • Electrical Panel Upgrade

    Electrical Panel Upgrade

    Electrical panels divide incoming electrical power from the grid into subsidiary circuits to distribute power throughout the building.

  • Solar Racking System

    Solar Racking System

     Used to safely fix solar panels to various surfaces such as roofs, building facades, or the ground.

  • How does a home solar system work?

    How does a home solar system work?

    So how does solar work? Well, it’s surprisingly simple. We’ve broken it down for you to show you just how easy solar can be.

Ready to get started?

Get started
  • Why Sunrun
    • Overview
    • Customer Stories
    • 7-Steps to Solar
  • Products
    • Overview
    • Solar Panels
    • Solar Battery
  • About
    • Team
    • Careers
    • Investors
    • Home Builders
  • Help
    • FAQ's
    • Contact Us
    • MySunrun

Customized solar plan for your home

Get a quote
See solar cost
  • State Contractor License Information
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

The services provided to you on this site are not provided by Ford Motor Company, but rather by Sunrun, 225 Bush St #1400, San Francisco, CA, 94104, an independent company.

©2023 Sunrun. All rights reserved.

Sunrun Logo phone sunrun-glyph Contact-Us-Icon facebook instagram twitter youtube linkedin