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Five things to look out for when buying used solar panels

Staff reportsApril 18, 2019 3260 0

Five Things to Look for When Buying Used Solar Panels

The offer on Craigslist looked too good to pass on it: $120 for 350W solar panels? 

“Is it worth the risk?,” asked an interested buyer on a message board dedicated to solar energy.

Solar panel systems can provide dependable and inexpensive power for your home, reducing your carbon footprint at the same time and the risk of rising electricity rates. They’re also a great addition to your home, increasing its value instantly.

And despite the drop in prices over the last decade they’re more affordable than ever, but there is an upfront cost that some may shy away from. To find a personalized price for a solar power system in your home, you can click on HaHaSmart price checker.

Because of this, you might be tempted to go for used solar panels and equipment, but there are several factors you need to watch out for, so that you don’t end up with in the dark, both in your home and your wallet. 

Solar panels are the most important part of a solar power system, as they’re the ones responsible for producing electricity. If they don’t work properly, their energy production is compromised and what seemed like a bargain, may end up costing you more in the long run. 

Here are five things to watch out for when buying used solar panels.

Do they work?

First things first, are you sure they’re still in working condition.

Testing them is paramount and to do so you need a good, clear sun and a volt/amp meter.

The first test is simple voltage, to make sure the solar panels produce the voltage listed on its sticker, if it still has one. If not, go online and try to find this information for the used panels you’re testing. 

You should also perform a second test to configure your meter for DC amps, aiming the panel well at the sun. Connect the leads and you should get at least 80% of the Isc rating on sticker. It’s recommended you test for five minutes, while the solar panel heats up.

If they pass those tests, they should be operational.

Look for damages/imperfections

If they’ve been on a roof or ground-mounted solar array previously, the panels were exposed to all types of weather conditions. As such, they’ve been pounded with rain, dust, small rocks and all sort of debris. 

Check for any type of damage, such as cracks in the glass, moisture underneath the cover, or connections that are completely broken. Even if they give you a good reading, if they have visible damages, their longevity may be in question.

Sometimes the damages are not easy to spot. If a panel sustained moisture in the internal circuitry, you will see fluctuations in the voltage output while testing. This occurs more often with amorphous silicon panels. If you notice these fluctuations, it may mean the solar panel doesn’t work. 

How much energy do they put out?

Like everything else, newer solar panels are able to produce more energy and more efficiently. Panels with older technology, with heavy frames and outdated cell sealing may not produce as much energy as you need for your home. 

Also, with time, the solar panels slowly lose their power output abilities. That would mean you’d need more panels to produce the same amount of energy that you’d be producing with new ones. Do you have the extra room on your roof, or are you limited in this regard?

Are there any loose connections?

A solar panel is made up of solar cells liked together in a series to form a circuit. The more interconnected cells in a series, the more electricity produced by the system. However, loose connections between the solar cells can remain hidden. If the connections are loose, it impacts the performance of the solar cells. It could even impede the cells from absorbing sunlight and transforming it into electricity. 

Remember that used panels don’t come with warranties. If the equipment you buy doesn’t work properly or is simply defective after installation, you can’t complain to anyone or ask for repairs.

Can you do the installation yourself or will you hire someone to do it?

This is very important. If you can do the job, great. If not, you might have a tough time finding a solar installer willing to use second-hand solar panels. Without knowing the source and efficiency of the equipment, it’s impossible to know the outcome of the project, and that may scare a professional.

Also, used panels are not recommended to power your entire home, given their unpredictable nature. They’re more suitable for smaller areas like boats and detached sheds, where you don’t need as many for your energy needs.

Something else to keep in mind is that if you buy used solar panels, you won’t be able to take advantage of the 30 percent Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit extended to solar users on the purchase of new equipment. 

HahaSmart Blog - More Solar Tips and Guide
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