Here’s something I’m not meant to tell you. Investing in cheap solar panels has merit. Find yourself an unbelievable deal and begin harvesting sunshine! Controversial, I know, but stick with me here. Soon, I’m going to need you to throw away put down some of your hard-earned cash because that’s how we get the best deals – Tip 1; cash only. We’ll get to that soon, but don’t worry, it will be less than the rest and offer similar warranties. 25-years in fact. Nice! Never fear, I’ve been around, and this will be a good deal for you to benefit from. Trust me…cheap solar panels and free energy from the sun, it’s a win-win for you, my friend.
Considering the vast array of different perspectives out there about what’s good and what’s not, let’s grab the bull by the horns and take matters into our own hands with a bit of research – Tip 2; research. I know, it sounds a little tedious, but I’m here with you.
We’re going to need to look out for the characteristics of the rubbish cheap solar panels because there’s a difference. A good indicator is looking into the experiences of others and the potential defects that have occurred based on recent historical evidence. I’ve done a little initial investigating and found some things that could go wrong when investing in cheap solar panels. Could is like a 50/50 word anyway, could also not go wrong, right? Nevertheless, for the sake of due diligence, here’s what we’re up against;
CONTENTS.
8 Points of Caution When Buying Cheap Solar Panels.
Important: The following 8 points of caution can occur in all solar panels where thorough due diligence is not exercised prior to investing.
Micro-cracks.
Initial research suggests the most common defect in cheap solar panels we need to consider is something called micro-cracks. To be honest, even the name sounds insignificant, so I’m not overly bothered here if you aren’t? Apparently, micro-cracks (or cell fractures) are stress or pressure-induced cracks within the solar cells. Rarely viewable by the naked eye and only detectable by “specific testing methods”. That pokes my curiosity a little. If we’re going to be investing in cheap solar panels we’ll need to understand how to detect these micro-cracks.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Manufacturing. • Transport/ installation. • Environment. | • Reduced output. • Increased internal resistance. • Lifespan reduction. | • Refined manufacturer selection. • Refined product qualification. • Manufacturer installer network. |
A fracture in a solar cell reduces the effectiveness of electrical pathways within the solar module. The reduction of electrical pathways means that fewer electrons will flow, undoubtedly reducing your investment potential.
Considering the preferred method for detecting solar cell fractures is electroluminescence (EL) testing selecting the right module from the start appears to be essential. Besides, once those panels are on your roof, that’s where they are staying. Think of all that effort and cost to you to remove and put your cheap solar panels through a certified electroluminescence testing institute.
Therefore, if we select a reputable manufacturer with a transparent track record of quality control, we can be assured EL testing is carried out once before lamination to identify and replace the defect solar cells, and repeated after the lamination process. That makes sense.
As there is no way of identifying solar panel micro-cracks when a solar panel arrives at the installation location, many module manufacturers now implement certified installer networks. Certified installers are required to purchase solar panels through the authorised distribution channels and undergo regular product training. Such channels are in place to uphold the integrity of the solar module from the manufacturing point through to the installation location.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Hot Spot.
Hot Spot…of course solar panels get hot, they’re installed in the sun. To be honest, I’d be surprised if they didn’t get hot in spots. It’s quite common for solar panels to be installed in places around the world where the bitumen melts in the sun. That’s a hot spot!
Just researching a little further into “hot spots”, they’re not quite the hot spots I was initially thinking of. More so, localised temperature rises within the solar panel circuitry resulting in resistive effects to electron flow. Similar to a kink in a hose, pressure builds. Considering this is electricity and not water, the result is excessive heat build-up as electrons try to push through a highly resistive portion of the solar modules circuit.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
Hot Spot…of course solar panels get hot, they’re installed in the sun. To be honest, I’d be surprised if they didn’t get hot in spots. It’s quite common for solar panels to be installed in places around the world where the bitumen melts in the sun. That’s a hot spot!
Just reading a little further into these “hot spots”, it mentions they’re not quite the hot spots I was thinking of. More so, localised temperature rises within the solar panel circuitry resulting in resistive effects to electron flow. Similar to a slight kink in a hose, pressure builds. Considering this is electricity and not water, the result is excessive heat build-up as electrons push through a highly resistive portion of the circuit. Hmmm…interesting if you’re a scientist or something. Not us, we’re just here for the cheap solar panels. I’ll look into this later, but apparently, these hot spots also stem from micro-cracks.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Fire.
I’m a little cautious of this next one, and we’re not compromising when it comes to fire. Ever since my garage burnt down from charging that cheap drone I bought on eBay (to be fair, I shouldn’t have left it charging overnight), I know things get real when it comes to fire. We’ll be inspecting the fire ratings of any cheap solar panels before buying. Tick.
Apparently, the fire rating means little if a DC arc-fault penetrates the double insulated barrier of the solar panel and ignites some leaves on the roof. That’s ok, I clean my gutters every week, so I can easily do the solar panels simultaneously. You do the same, right? If so, just be careful of potential electrocution if the double insulated barrier has deteriorated. Sparky advice 101!
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
I’m a little cautious of this next one, and we’re not compromising when it comes to fire. Ever since my garage burnt down from charging that cheap drone I bought on eBay (to be fair, I shouldn’t have left it charging overnight), I know things get real when it comes to fire. We’ll be inspecting the fire ratings of any cheap solar panels before buying. Tick.
Apparently, the fire rating means little if a DC arc-fault penetrates the double insulated barrier of the solar panel and ignites some leaves on the roof. That’s ok, I clean my gutters every week, so I can easily do the solar panels simultaneously. You do the same, right? If so, just be careful of potential electrocution if the double insulated barrier has deteriorated. Sparky advice 101!
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Delamination.
They’re just trying to use big words now to throw us off the scent. Delamination? It’s a solar panel, not a piece of paper made waterproof. To be honest, that kind of makes sense. A solar cell’s encapsulation method (I know big words too) is usually between a glass front surface material (superstrate) and an EVA laminate or glass rear surface material (substrate). It turns out delamination results from these materials separating, exposing critical circuitry to the elements.
Delamination won’t happen to our cheap solar panels. A simple visual inspection should solve this issue when you pull the panel out of the box. Shiny and intact = good. They’re going to have to wake up early to catch us out with words. Reading a little further, apparently, delamination is the encapsulation materials separating over time through inferior associated product quality or contaminated manufacturing methods, emphasising the word over time. Meh, “25-year warranty”, we’re good.
Here’s some additional research on delamination. Probably not even a real word.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
They’re just trying to use big words now to throw us off the scent. Delamination? It’s a solar panel, not a piece of paper made waterproof. To be honest, that kind of makes sense. A solar cell’s encapsulation method (I know big words too) is usually between a glass front surface material (superstrate) and an EVA laminate or glass rear surface material (substrate). It turns out delamination results from these materials separating, exposing critical circuitry to the elements.
Delamination won’t happen to our cheap solar panels. A simple visual inspection should solve this issue when you pull the panel out of the box. Shiny and intact = good. They’re going to have to wake up early to catch us out with words. Reading a little further, apparently, delamination is the encapsulation materials separating over time through inferior associated product quality or contaminated manufacturing methods, emphasising the word over time. Meh, “25-year warranty”, we’re good.
Here’s some additional research on delamination. Probably not even a real word.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Shattering.
Finally something we can see from standing on the ground (and far less hypothetical). Shattering could be all solar panels, surely? If you hit any glass surface hard enough, it will shatter. At times, it feels like some of this internet solar panel jargon is sensationalist journalism to benefit the big companies. There’s a place in this world for cheap solar panels, and you are going to benefit!
It’s pretty interesting this shattering subject (if it’s even true). Did you know glass can shatter from more than hail impact? Apparently, other factors include hot spot, general heat, wind pressure/load, structural stress and inferior glass quality.
Here’s some more solar panel shattering information I found. Take from it what you will, but it looks pretty severe. I’m beginning to get a little unsure about cheap solar panels now.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
Finally something we can see from standing on the ground (and far less hypothetical). Shattering could be all solar panels, surely? If you hit any glass surface hard enough, it will shatter. At times, it feels like some of this internet solar panel jargon is sensationalist journalism to benefit the big companies. There’s a place in this world for cheap solar panels, and you are going to benefit!
It’s pretty interesting this shattering subject (if it’s even true). Did you know glass can shatter from more than hail impact? Apparently, other factors include hot spot, general heat, wind pressure/load, structural stress and inferior glass quality.
Here’s some more solar panel shattering information I found. Take from it what you will, but it looks pretty severe. I’m beginning to get a little unsure about cheap solar panels now.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Ingress.
I couldn’t return a phone on warranty once because they said it has “Ingress“. I dropped it in the water for no more than 5-seconds. Surely they make all electrical equipment to work exposed to a bit of water these days? Apparently not. Some information I uncovered I’ve found suggests that ingress is a problem in certain cheap solar panels exposed to particular environmental conditions. Not our cheap solar panels. I know about IP ratings. We’re good.
First digit = dust ingress protection. The second digit = water ingress protection. We need high numbers like 6 or 7 for the cheap solar panels we’re getting for you (that’s like sand storms and water jets from all angles – super durable stuff). However, I’ve come across another document online from a regulatory authority audit that suggests that some manufacturers’ nameplate ratings are inferior to the nominated classification. Perhaps everything written on these module specification sheets isn’t entirely true?
It was random testing anyway. They could have just picked a couple of duds. Surely the whole batch isn’t like that. We’re getting the cheap solar panels come out of the box in mint condition.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
I couldn’t return a phone on warranty once because they said it has “Ingress“. I dropped it in the water for no more than 5-seconds. Surely they make all electrical equipment to work exposed to a bit of water these days? Apparently not. Some information I uncovered I’ve found suggests that ingress is a problem in certain cheap solar panels exposed to particular environmental conditions. Not our cheap solar panels. I know about IP ratings. We’re good.
First digit = dust ingress protection. The second digit = water ingress protection. We need high numbers like 6 or 7 for the cheap solar panels we’re getting for you (that’s like sand storms and water jets from all angles – super durable stuff). However, I’ve come across another document online from a regulatory authority audit that suggests that some manufacturers’ nameplate ratings are inferior to the nominated classification. Perhaps everything written on these module specification sheets isn’t entirely true?
It was random testing anyway. They could have just picked a couple of duds. Surely the whole batch isn’t like that. We’re getting the cheap solar panels come out of the box in mint condition.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Deformation.
Deformation is definitely sensationalist hype. I’ve seen the pictures of what deformation looks like, and it appears to be a combination of the last six categories gone wrong. Realistically, deformation in cheap solar panels isn’t a thing. It only exists if you let the previous six categories get out of control. You and I weren’t born yesterday.
Here it is explained in a little more detail, echoing what I said.
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
Deformation is definitely sensationalist hype. I’ve seen the pictures of what deformation looks like, and it appears to be a combination of the last six categories gone wrong. Realistically, deformation in cheap solar panels isn’t a thing. It only exists if you let the previous six categories get out of control. You and I weren’t born yesterday.
Here it is explained in a little more detail, echoing what I said.
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Discolouration.
It’s like these internet sites are making issues up for fun now. Discolouration isn’t a thing. I’m helping you spend thousands of dollars on good cheap solar panels. If they discolour sightly, who cares? It’s on the roof of your house, your most valuable asset. When it comes to the resale value of your home, potential buyers aren’t going to say, “why are the solar panels all different colours? We better get that inspected before signing to buy”. Nope, a far more likely remark from any prospective home buyer would be, “Our dream home with cheap solar panels, will you take an extra 10k for the property and take it off the market today?”
This win-win scenario just became a win-win-win!
Causes | Side-effects | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
• Internal damage. • Cell mismatch. • Soiling. • Environment. | • Increased internal resistance. • Reduced output. • Earth fault. • Fire. | • Refined product qualification. • Reputable installer. |
It’s like these internet sites are making issues up for fun now. Discolouration isn’t a thing. I’m helping you spend thousands of dollars on good cheap solar panels. If they discolour sightly, who cares? It’s on the roof of your house, your most valuable asset. When it comes to the resale value of your home, potential buyers aren’t going to say, “why are the solar panels all different colours? We better get that inspected before signing to buy”. Nope, a far more likely remark from any prospective home buyer would be, “Our dream home with cheap solar panels, will you take an extra 10k for the property and take it off the market today?”
This win-win scenario just became a win-win-win!
Image: Solar cell micro-cracks/ fractures detected via electroluminescence (EL) testing methods.
Best Cheap Solar Panels To Buy.
As humans, we naturally love doing minimal research into technology, because the monetary value is low and a few buzz words stimulate us into believing the hype.
Cheap solar panels, should you believe the hype? Probably not. They have a long warranty from a “Tier-1” manufacturer in another country, so it must be credible? Probably not. Should you invest the money you’ve worked hard to earn based on a datasheet and a slick-talking sales consultant? Probably not.
What makes cheap solar panels cheap?
- Lower-quality (cheaper) associated material costs.
- Lack of localised presence.
- Less inclusive warranty terms.
Investing in cheap solar panels is a good thing! Unfortunately, investing in cheap solar panels by so called “Tier-1” solar module manufacturers will not always assist in avoiding the repercussions of inferior technology. Therefore, how do you understand what to look for when making the decision which solar panels are a good investment, and which are no so good?
Proof that Tier-1 is no gauge for quality. The fact is, Tier-1 is a term low-end market sellers exploit to give the buyer a feeling of confidence in a cheap product. In most instances, beneath the surface is an underperforming electrical mess, despite the bankability of a certain manufacturer in a nominated quarter. Industry experts suggest “be the savvy shopper” and always seek BEYOND TIER-1.
Proof that Tier-1 is no gauge for quality. The fact is, Tier-1 is a term low-end market sellers exploit to give the buyer a feeling of confidence in a cheap product. In most instances, beneath the surface is an underperforming electrical mess, despite the bankability of a certain manufacturer in a nominated quarter. Industry experts suggest “be the savvy shopper” and always seek BEYOND TIER-1.
WHAT THE INTERNET UNCOVERED in the last 3-years of critically failed “Tier-1 solar panels” installed in Australia alone. The images below from deemed Tier-1 manufacturers are less than 1% of catastrophic solar panel failures system owners have endured from 2015 to 2018. Expel the myth that Tier-1 is a quality guideline. Exposed are the avoidable results of inferior product selection.
Click any of the above to jump to a particular section or keep scrolling to view in order.
1. Micro Cracks.
Micro cracks are stress or pressure induced cracks in the silicon solar cells of solar panels. These cracks can’t often be seen by the naked eye, only with specific testing methods. Micro cracks are the route cause for so many solar panel malfunctions or inactive cells in solar modules.
Review micro cracks in detail: MORE Images, 3 main causes, the devastating side-effects and the ultimate prevention of cell fractures in a dedicated Solar Analytica feature: Solar Panel Micro Cracks Exposed! >
2. Hot Spot.
Hot spots are localised temperature rises within the solar panel causing devastating effects to the efficiency and degradation of a solar module. If you see these on your solar panel immediately get in touch with your installer. Hot spots are not stable and will eventually cause catastrophic failure.
Next-level hot spot: Heart breaking images, what causes hot spot? The destructive side-effects you will never believe and the ultimate prevention in a dedicated Solar Analytica feature: Solar Panel Hot Spot Exposed! >
3. Fire.
An extreme potential hazard which exists with solar energy production, especially when on the roof of a family home. Solar panel fires are not as common as micro-cracks or hot spot, but are more of an evolved state from underlying defects, no matter how insignificant they may seem.
Want more? View the images you were not meant to see, what causes FIRE within a solar system? and the number 1 thing you can do to prevent fire and increase system performance at the same time: Solar Panel Fires Exposed! >
4. Delamination
Delamination is a serious issue as it allows moisture to penetrate the internal electrical components which in turn will cause a catastrophic failure, requiring replacement. As depicted manufacturer deemed Tier-1 solar panels are no stranger to this problem, comprised of low-quality materials and cheaper construction methods in order to achieve the mass volumes required for Tier-1 qualification. A result which Influences negative connotations towards solar energy when things go wrong.
Solar panel delamination exposed! What causes solar panel delamination? and what you can do to prevent internal corruption of your solar panels: Solar Panel Delamination Exposed! >
5. Shattering
All solar panels must have a degree of resistance to elements which can influence shattering. This will however vary from manufacturer to manufacturer as the material qualification (glass selection) and construction processes vary dramatically. The main cause of shatter are varied between environment, construction and installation.
Discover the seemingly innocent maintenance procedure which can cause solar panel shatter. Plus what you can do to prevent your solar panels from shattering: Solar Panel Shattering Exposed! >
6. Ingress
When moisture penetrates the the protective layers of the solar module and makes contact within the internal electrical circuit. Severely expediting the degradation of the panel and eventually leading to catastrophic failure of the panel and entire solar system. Ingress is mainly caused by a low-quality production line and inferior material qualification.
Corrosive destruction, mechanical distortion and critical system failure. Discover the causes and how to prevent solar panel ingress from occuring in your solar panels: Solar Panel Ingress Exposed! >
7. Deformation
Deformation in it’s most severe form is likely to be caused by a combination of the detrimental effects listed within the previous 6 categories or as a result of inadequate strengthening properties within the solar panel. There are though, two main areas where the affects of solar panel deformation is prominent: The centre of the panel where slumping towards the roof is prominent and the outer frame region.
8. Discolouration
Discolouration will turn the diamonds or protective back sheet a yellow/brown colour. This is a chemical reaction between the poor quality materials and sunlight. More often than not appearing within the first few years of sunlight exposure. Poor or cheap material qualification is the source of such failure. Once discolouration commences the EVA is in a constant change from it’s original state which will inevitably lead to material breakdown.
More than just a visually displeasing failure, discover the true ramifications of solar panel discolouration: Solar Panel Discolouration Exposed! >
