Is your solar system efficiency declining, or is your solar near its end? While solar panels are designed to be durable, they don’t last forever. Indeed, many signs may indicate a solar system upgrade or even a complete removal of the solar system. Recognizing such signals early can save money, enhance system performance, and increase useful life.
Millions of American homeowners and businesses have opted for solar energy as a green power source, and keeping your solar system up and running is crucial to getting the best return on your investment.
Solar Medix specializes in solar system maintenance, upgrades, and removals. In this article, we’ll explore when you should consider upgrading or removing your solar panels.
You’ll learn about frequent situations that demand action, signs that action is required, and the procedure for solar panel removal or modifications. Read on to discover how your solar system can continue working for you and your home for years.
Why This Decision Matters for Your Solar Investment
Solar panels are often marketed for their longevity. High-quality panels can last 25 to 30 years or more, making them a solid investment. But like any technology, solar systems will not stay efficient forever. When considering whether to remove or upgrade your solar panels, know that this decision can greatly affect your energy savings, system performance, and overall solar investment.
- Understanding when to replace or upgrade your panels can assist with:
- Increase energy efficiency and save money
- Get the most from your solar system investment
- Ensure your system runs at its best and for a longer time
Understanding these key decision points helps ensure you’re not overpaying for electricity or underutilizing your system’s full potential.
6 Common Scenarios That Call for Solar Panel Removal or Upgrade
Knowing when to replace or upgrade your panels is vital to maximizing your system’s efficiency and lifespan. Although solar technology has advanced greatly, your panels may still suffer from wear and tear, particularly after a decade.
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), solar panels generally degrade at an average rate of about 0.5 percent per year, meaning that your system’s performance can be impacted over time. In other cases, signs like roof damage, old technology, or needing more energy output might indicate that you may be due for an upgrade.
In this section, we’ll examine 6 common situations in which solar panel removal or upgrade is no longer optional, and how to keep your system working at its best to maximize its value.
Let’s go through these situations and figure out when to make a move.
- Roof Repairs or Replacement
- System Damage or Faulty Panels
- Outdated Technology or Poor Efficiency
- Scaling Your System for Higher Energy Needs
- Selling or Renovating property
- Repositioning for Better Sunlight Access
1. Roof Repairs or Replacement
If you’re considering replacing your roof or performing extensive repairs, you may need to remove and reinstall your solar panels. Roof work can harm panels or block their effectiveness, so it’s better to temporarily remove them for proper protection and reinstallation.
- Replacing a roof may create structural shifts that damage panels.
- Solar panels may need to be removed to keep them safe when doing roofing work.
- After roof work, reinstalling your system ensures a secure fit and optimal performance.
2. System Damage or Faulty Panels
Old or broken panels can severely affect your system’s energy output. Cracked or fried panels are less effective, and a faulty inverter could cause your whole system to underperform.
- Damaged panels can cause a decrease in the system’s overall efficiency.
- Defective inverters or faulty wiring can ruin the whole system.
- Weather damage and wear and tear can degrade panels, requiring replacements.
3. Outdated Technology or Poor Efficiency
Solar technology has advanced significantly in recent years. If your system is over 15-20 years old, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Modern panels are more efficient, so replacing old panels with new ones can produce better energy for the same roof space.
- Newer panels provide higher energy conversion rates.
- Outdated technology may result in poor overall system efficiency.
- Upgrading to more efficient panels can significantly reduce electricity bills.
4. Scaling Your System for Higher Energy Needs
Your energy consumption needs may change over time. For instance, you may have installed new appliances or switched to an electric vehicle (EV). If your solar system doesn’t already produce the additional energy you need, upgrading to a larger system can help meet these new demands.
- Expanding the system by adding more panels is a practical solution.
- An increase in household or business energy requirements may necessitate boosting a system.
- Scaling up enables you to get off-grid electricity.
5. Selling or Renovating property
If you’re considering selling or upgrading your property, it can be a good time to evaluate how well your solar system is performing and what condition it is in. A well-maintained and upgraded system can also increase the value of your home or business, which can be a desirable selling point.
- A well-maintained system can add value to your property.
- Buyers typically prefer homes with solar systems operating at peak efficiency.
- Upgrading can be considered a high-yield investment that pays off upon sale.
6. Repositioning for Better Sunlight Access
Sometimes, repositioning the panels a bit can increase their efficiency. This might mean moving them to a place on the roof with more sun or even switching to a ground-mounted system if your roof position isn’t the best.
- Improving energy production by moving panels to a more beneficial location
- There can be more flexibility when a solar panel is placed with ground-mounted solutions.
- Repositioning panels to capture maximum sunlight.
6 Signs It’s Time to Remove or Upgrade Your Panels
Understanding the main signs that your panels need removing or upgrading can help you maintain your energy efficiency and investment.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a long-term drop of more than 20% in energy production might indicate the need for an upgrade or replacement.
As systems age, problems such as declining efficiency, surprising spikes in electric bills, or dead inverters start to crop up. However, by identifying these warning indicators early, you can prevent further damage, enhance system functionality, and save money in the long term.
In the following sections, we will share 6 ways to tell if your solar panels should be removed or upgraded to keep your system at its best.
- Energy Output Has Noticeably Dropped
- Your Electricity Bill Is Rising Unexpectedly
- Your Inverter Shows Error Messages
- Panels Are Over 15-20 Years Old
- You’ve Added More Appliances or EV Chargers
- You’re Interested in Battery Integration or Smart Systems
1. Energy Output Has Noticeably Dropped
A significant drop in energy production is one of the first indicators that your system requires attention. If it’s dropped by more than 20% over time, that’s a red flag.
- Check your energy output with your solar monitoring system.
- Compare the current output against your system’s rated performance.
- Persistent drops in production may indicate that a system upgrade is necessary.
2. Your Electricity Bill Is Rising Unexpectedly
If you have a solar system installed but your monthly electric bill is increasing, that can signal that something is wrong with your system. It could be lagging, or your system could be too small for present demands.
- A growing bill indicates your solar system is no longer supplying energy needs.
- Examine your energy use habits to decide if it is time to upgrade.
- A bigger system, or battery storage, may be needed to lessen dependence on the grid.
3. Your Inverter Shows Error Messages
Inverters are important devices that convert the power produced by your panels. If your inverter displays error messages or fails to function properly, take action as soon as possible because this can impact the entire system’s performance.
- Bad inverters must be replaced to avoid more damage.
- Be attentive to error messages or system shutdowns.
- The performance of a system can be improved with a more efficient inverter.
4. Panels Are Over 15-20 Years Old
Older panels are generally less efficient and may have degraded over the years. If your panels are approaching 20 years old, it’s time to assess their condition and invest in newer, more efficient technology.
- Panel efficiency degrades over time, particularly after about 15 years.
- Upgrading old panels can help bring about higher energy output.
- If your system is older, you may consider upgrading to new panels with a higher energy conversion rate and warranty period.
5. You’ve Added More Appliances or EV Chargers
As houses add more appliances—or add EV chargers—and become increasingly electrified, the potential for increased energy consumption must be understood. If your existing system is not meeting the demands, you should consider expanding or upgrading.
- High-energy devices can overload your system if not managed properly.
- The most cost-effective solution is scaling up your solar capacity with more panels.
- Ensure that your system is appropriately sized for your expanding energy consumption.
6. You’re Interested in Battery Integration or Smart Systems
Some homeowners install battery storage systems to store excess solar power or smart technology to maximize energy use. It might take a complete system upgrade if you want to add these features.
- To add a battery, you need compatible inverters and modifications to the system.
- Smart systems require the latest technology to achieve maximum energy efficiency.
- New technology integration aids in complete energy management.
What Happens During a Professional Solar Panel Removal or Upgrade
Once you know it’s time to upgrade or remove your solar panels, you must understand how the process works to ensure a seamless transition.
Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) warns that the improper removal or upgrade of solar systems can greatly damage the infrastructure and has the potential to be extremely expensive. This involves a methodical approach that professional technicians take to ensure the system is safely deactivated, removed, and reinstalled or upgraded smoothly.
In the following section, we’ll cover each of the critical steps involved in a professional solar panel removal or upgrade, protecting your system along the way and getting it back on track to peak performance.
Step #1: On-site Inspection & Performance Analysis
The right upgrades and replacements are usually found after fully diagnosing your current system.
- Technicians evaluate the state of the panels, inverters, and wiring.
- They review performance data to determine whether repairs or a full upgrade are needed.
Step #2: Safe System Shutdown & Disconnection
The system is safely disconnected before beginning any work to prevent electrical hazards.
- Technicians and homeowners are protected by safely shutting down power.
- The system is both off-grid and battery-storage independent.
Step #3: Panel Removal and Secure Storage (If Applicable)
If panels need to be removed, they are gently dismounted and preserved to enable reinstallation later.
- Panels are removed safely without any issues.
- Reusable components are retained where applicable.
Step #4: Roof or Site Prep for Upgrade
After removing the panels, the site is prepared for any required upgrades, such as reinforcing the roof or laying new foundations for ground-mounted systems.
- Roofs are inspected, and repairs are recommended when needed.
- Foundations for new systems are laid to ensure secure installation.
Step #5: Installation of New or Upgraded System
New or upgraded panels, as well as any extra equipment, such as smart inverters or battery storage systems, are mounted.
- The new panels are positioned for optimal efficiency.
- The upgraded components, such as inverters or batteries, are fitted.
Step #6: Testing, Monitoring, and Re-activation
The system is then tested and monitored after installation to ensure it’s working at its peak performance.
- The system is examined for electrical safety and performance.
- Final checks to ensure the new system meets energy demands
What Are Your Options While Upgrading Your Solar System?
Upgrading isn’t always a matter of swapping old panels for new ones. Various options are available that can maximize your system’s efficiency and bring your energy requirements more in line with its needs.
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), contemporary solar panels are 20% more efficient than those installed a decade ago. In many cases, this means that they can operate with the same amount of roof space while generating much more energy.
Whether you’re looking to add battery storage, upgrade to a smart inverter, or move your panels to a sunnier spot, the right decision can ensure your system will deliver reliable, cost-effective energy for many years .
Whether through panels or inverters, most solar systems can be upgraded somehow.
Newer, More Efficient Panels
Installing newer, high-efficiency panels can dramatically increase your system’s energy production without additional roof space.
- Panels of recent models convert energy at higher rates.
- They have better resilience to extreme weather.
Smart Inverters & Monitoring Tools
Some newer inverters and monitoring tools can also improve system performance by allowing you to monitor energy production and make adjustments.
- Smart inverters enable better system management.
- Monitoring tools assist homeowners in tracking performance in real time.
Battery Storage Add-ons
A battery in your system enables you to store any excess solar energy when the sun is not shining.
- Batteries allow you to use solar energy at night or when it’s cloudy.
- They can decrease reliance on the grid.
Repositioning or Ground-Mount Solutions
If your solar roof space is limited or inefficient, repositioning your panels or switching to a ground-mounted system can improve performance.
- Ground mounts offer flexibility in positioning.
- Repositioning panels ensures maximum sunlight exposure.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove or Upgrade Solar Panels?
| Factors | Cost Considerations |
| Panel Removal | Average cost: $5,000 (range: $3,000 – $12,500) |
| Cost per Panel | $200 to $500 per panel |
| Roof Accessibility | Easier access reduces costs, and more complex roofs increase the price |
| Removal & Reinstallation | For a typical residential system: $1,500 – $6,000 |
| Cost per Panel (Removal & Reinstall) | $275 to $300 per panel |
| Cost for New System (Removal & Reinstall) | $7,028 to $7,666 |
| Panel Upgrades | Cost: $1,000 to $15,000, depending on complexity, roof repairs, and number of panels |
| New Hardware (Inverters & Batteries) | Adding inverters or battery storage increases the total cost |
| Permits | Local regulations may require permits, which could add extra fees |
Note: Actual costs depend on the number of panels, roof complexity, labor rates, and more, including whether additional hardware or repairs are needed. Always get several estimates for an accurate calculation based on your specific system.
Why Choose Solar Medix for Solar Panel Removal or Upgrades
Knowing when to remove or upgrade your solar panels is essential to maintain your energy system at its best. Whether you are experiencing a loss of efficiency, rising energy demands, or outdated technology, acting early can save money, enhance your system’s performance, and extend its useful life.
Solar Medix has been in business for over 17 years. No matter what service you require, our certified technicians will ensure that your system performs properly and is safe to operate. We are local, responsive, and trusted by homeowners and companies throughout New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Massachusetts.
So, whether you’re ready to maximize the performance of your solar system or simply need professional insight, reach out today for your free quote and let our experts show you how to get the most from your solar energy investment. Whether you need to upgrade old units, install battery storage, or move your system to a more ideal location, we are here to help you through the process.
Call (732) 474-1748 or complete our online form for a consultation. Keep your solar system working for you, not the other way around!
FAQs
If your panels are older than 15-20 years or your system's performance continually decreases, it may be time to replace them.
Removing and reinstalling panels requires professional expertise to handle the system safely and efficiently.
