Refurbished Solar Panels: Worth Considering?

A lot of homeowners want solar, but as of yet, not a lot of homeowners can afford solar. Refurbished solar panels are an option worth consideration for those intimidated by a solar home system’s daunting price tag. As new as the solar movement may feel, solar power is nothing new and there are plenty of used solar panels available for purchase. Furthermore, a refurbished panel system is a little extra green because you’re recycling on top of going solar. However, purchasing refurbished panels is not something to jump into and your choice should be well researched.

The panels are available through a variety of outlets, both on and offline. Many are former components of large, commercial systems or simply surplus items. Older panels will likely be the most inexpensive because they are heavier and take up more space than newer panels. And many damaged panels that are listed may only need simple repairs to return to functionality. But if glass is broken or cracked then the panel is probably not worth the time and money to repair it. Bear in mind that solar panels have a very long lifespan so even panels that are 20 years old may still have some significant life left in them, although you are taking a chance nonetheless. Be sure to make sure older panels are still in good condition.

It is important not to assume that refurbished panels are cost effective just because of an appealing price tag. Tax incentives and rebates have been increasing dramatically, at both the state and federal levels, and almost every one requires that the panels are new. So it is important to calculate your savings from buying refurbished panels versus new panels after rebates before making any decisions.

Solar panels are usually refurbished in three ways and it is vital that the panels are refurbished properly or major problems will be waiting not far down the line.

• Polycarbonate is one way to refurbish panels but glazing will need to be taken care of afterward or problems will likely occur.
• Twin wall carbonate is another possibility. However, solar panels refurbished in this way can only stand temperatures up to 275 degrees. If temperatures get too hot then the panels will be compromised.
• For older panels, many people use glass to re-cover the panel. It is vital that the glass be tempered or it will be more prone to break and the panel will have to be refurbished yet again.

Using any of these techniques, solar panels can be made almost as good as new. Although the homeowner will need to pay extra attention to the care and condition of the panels to avoid having to refurbish the panels again. Again, it is vital that anyone considering refurbished panels be sure that this route is worthwhile financially. The likely lack of warranty is another important factor to be considered. All that being said, with careful consideration there is no reason why you cannot find usable solar panels and get your solar home system online at a percentage of a new system’s cost. Your pre-screened, certified solar installer may be able to help you locate panels and handle the actual installation so you can get your solar system up and running.

Posted on June 30th in Solar Products by Dan.