Solar Panel Warranty: What You Need to Know in Malaysia

When you’re thinking about installing solar panels in Malaysia, it’s natural to wonder how reliable they’ll be over the long run. Solar panels are a big investment, designed to last up to 25 years. Naturally, you want to be sure they’ll keep performing well and that you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected repair costs. That’s where solar panel warranties come in.

Warranties provide a safety net against defects and performance issues. If something goes wrong—whether due to manufacturing or installation errors—warranties ensure the problem gets fixed without extra expense on your end. This article will explain what solar panel warranties cover, how they work in Malaysia, and why they’re essential for protecting your investment. You’ll also see why choosing a system with strong warranties (and guarantees) can give you more value and peace of mind over the long term.

What Is A Solar Panel Warranty?

A solar panel warranty is essentially a promise from the manufacturer or installer that your system will work as expected. It covers issues like defects in the materials or problems caused during installation, so you’re not left with surprise costs if something goes wrong. Having this protection in place helps maintain your system’s efficiency and shields your financial investment.

Types Of Solar Panel Warranty

There are a few types of warranties to consider when looking into solar panels. Each one covers different parts of your system, so it’s important to understand what each one does:

Product Warranty‍

This covers defects in the solar panels themselves. In Malaysia, product warranties usually range from 10 to 15 years, though some international manufacturers extend up to 25 years. If there’s a flaw in the panels, they’ll be repaired or replaced at no extra cost. However, product warranties don’t usually cover diagnostics or site visits—just the repair or replacement itself.

Workmanship Warranty‍

This covers problems caused by the installation process, such as issues with mounting systems, inverters, or wiring. Workmanship warranties in Malaysia typically range from 1 to 10 years. The first 1 to 2 years are known as the Defect Liability Period, where the installer is responsible for fixing defects linked to their work, as outlined by the Energy Commission of Malaysia. Routine solar panel maintenance, however, isn’t usually included.

Performance Warranty‍

A performance warranty guarantees that your solar panels or inverter will continue producing energy at a certain level over time. This is issued by the manufacturer, not the installer. In Malaysia, the industry standard is 25 years for panels, with most brands assuring at least 90% efficiency after 10 years and 80% after 25 years. This protects you against long-term degradation of the devices themselves.

Beyond Warranty: GetSolar’s Performance Guarantee

While warranties protect you against defects and underperformance of the hardware, they don’t cover your entire system’s output or maintenance. That’s where GetSolar’s Rent-to-Own plans make a difference.

With our RTO programme in Malaysia, you receive a performance guarantee that includes:

• Free maintenance for the full term of your plan (5 or 10 years).
• A payback promise: if your solar system underperforms, we’ll compensate you for the difference.

This guarantee is unique to GetSolar and ensures that your solar investment not only has strong manufacturer warranties but also real-world protection for your energy savings.

Key Factors To Consider In Solar Panel Warranty

1. Warranty Length

The longer the warranty, the greater the manufacturer’s confidence in its product. Look for warranties that align with your investment period—ideally 25 years for performance, and 10–15 years for product coverage.

2. Coverage Details

Check if the warranty covers key components beyond just the panels, such as inverters and monitoring systems. Strong coverage lowers the risk of additional costs if a part fails.

3. Transferability

A transferable warranty can add value to your property. If you sell your home, some warranties transfer automatically to the new owner, while others require paperwork. This makes your property more attractive to buyers.

4. Exclusions And Limitations

Understanding what’s not covered is just as important as knowing what is. In Malaysia’s hot and humid climate, heavy rain, strong winds, and heat stress can all affect panels. Some warranties exclude damage caused by environmental factors unless the panels are specifically rated for such conditions. Knowing these limits helps you avoid mistakes that could void your warranty.

5. Claims Process

If you notice a problem, contact your installer or manufacturer promptly. Keep your proof of purchase and system details on hand. Typically, a technician will inspect the system to verify the issue. If it’s covered under warranty, the repair or replacement will be done at no extra cost. You may also refer to SEDA Malaysia for resources on renewable energy standards and policies.

Solar Panel Warranty In Malaysia

A strong solar panel warranty is essential for ensuring your system performs reliably and that you avoid unexpected repair costs down the line. It provides peace of mind while protecting the value of your investment.

When comparing providers, look for ones that go beyond the basics. For example, GetSolar’s Rent-to-Own programme in Malaysia includes a 5-year or 10-year warranty with maintenance and a unique performance guarantee. This means you never pay out of pocket for servicing, and if your system ever underperforms, you’ll be compensated.

By understanding how solar panel warranties and guarantees work, and choosing a provider that offers both, you can make informed choices that keep your system running smoothly for decades—helping you save money while moving towards a sustainable energy future.