![]() Solar panels can operate close to 100% capacity for about 20 to 25 years in Florida. A lot of homeowners now prefer solar shingles, which have a similar lifespan. Solar Panel DesignSolar panels are designed to withstand various environmental conditions and typically come with warranties ranging from 20 to 25 years. Most solar panels can continue generating electricity for a lot longer than that warranty period. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the average degradation rate of solar panels is around 0.5% per year. So even after 25 years, solar panels are likely to still be operating at around 87.5% of their original capacity. Here in Florida, while high temperatures accelerate the degradation process, advancements in solar panel technology - like improved materials and better heat management systems - have mitigated this issue to a large extent. The Downside to Solar PanelsTraditional rack-mounted solar panel installation punctures your existing roof, voiding any existing roof warranty. If you ever need to replace your roof, you have to then remove and reinstall the solar panels. That's why a lot of Florida homeowners have started using solar shingles. ![]() GAF Solar ShinglesGAF solar shingles offer an alternative to traditional solar panels by integrating solar cells into roofing shingles. Unlike solar panel installation, any licensed roofing contractor can install GAF solar shingles, as they're nailable, just like traditional asphalt shingles. They can also withstand winds of up to 130 MPH, so annual tropical storms and hurricanes shouldn't cause any damage. GAF solar shingles are also designed to require little to no maintenance. If seasonal rains are lacking, homeowners can gently rinse off their shingles during the cool hours of the day to keep them clean of dirt. How Regional Temperature Differences in Florida Affect Solar Panel LongevityNorth Florida North Florida experiences milder temperatures compared to Central and South Florida. The heat is not as extreme, but the occasional winter cold front with freezing temperatures can add a bit of stress to your solar panels. South Florida South Florida homeowners experience some of the highest temperatures in the country, particularly during the mid-summer months when it gets above 100 degrees. This extreme heat can lead to faster degradation of your solar panels if not properly maintained. Some homeowners use fans with temperature sensors to cool down their solar panels. GAF solar shingles can function at maximum capacity up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average solar panel can function up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. We would still recommend the solar shingles when considering the longterm effects a rack-mounted solar system can have on the roof itself.
If you're interested in learning more about GAF Timberline Solar shingles, contact CG Roofing & Waterproofing today. We are one of the only GAF-certified solar shingle installers in the state of Florida.
Comments are closed.
|