How to Identify Original Solar Panels for your Home (Full Guide)

Fake solar panels are offered at the same price as genuine ones since there is a large demand for them. As a result of this, customers find it very challenging to distinguish between original solar panels and counterfeits.

These panels might not generate the power they claim to since they are frequently constructed from inferior materials. Sometimes, they might even be harmful.

Because of this, many people are unsure how to distinguish real solar panels from fakes. In the end, some decide not to purchase.

It’s critical to recognize and steer clear of fake solar panels if you want a dependable and effective solar energy system for your house or place of business.

Below is a step-by-step guide on identifying original Solar Panels for your Home.

Check for the Manufacturers of the Solar panel.
Look for certificates and product specifications.
Ensure there are no body defects, cracks, tempered glass, or packaging defects.
Ensure the quality of the material is top-notch
Compare prices as well | Don’t fall for a cheap price
Ensure there is a warranty
Check for the serial number
Ensure you go for Known brands with a reputation
Check for Local Regulations:
Finally, do your research

#1. Check for the Manufacturers of the Solar Panel.

Do a little research about the solar panel manufacturer first.

Often, fake panels are offered for sale under a poorly recognized brand.

Always look for counterfeit products. You could fall victim to a scam using a solar panel copy of a well-known brand.

Well-known brands have a history of creating high-caliber panels.

Again, when purchasing solar panels, stick with well-known brands that have a track record of producing dependable, high-quality goods.

Companies like SunPower, LG, and Panasonic have solid reputations in the solar business. These businesses are renowned for their strong warranties, extensive testing, and long-lasting panels.

Also See: Tanzania Launches Solar-Powered Mobile Classrooms

2. Look out for Certificates and Product Specifications.

It is important to remember that genuine solar panels usually bear certification from reputable agencies such as the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), or the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The panels’ compliance with particular quality and safety criteria is ensured by these certificates.

Each certification is visible on the nameplate at the rear of a solar panel. Occasionally, counterfeit goods lack visible product specifications.

3. Ensure there are no Body Defects, Cracks, Tempered glass, or Packaging Defects.

Be aware that any solar panel with an unstable exterior protective covering that begins to peel off shortly after it is manufactured is a fake one.

This is a clue that the solar panel you want to buy is fake. When you encounter people with these kinds of natural bodily problems, please do not purchase them.

Real solar panels usually have a consistent color and a clean, uniform appearance with neat edges. Look for any indications of fading, scratches, or damage.

4. Ensure the Quality of the Material is Top-notch

Imitation panels are inexpensive because they are composed of inferior materials that resemble the original material.

Fortunately, inferior-quality solar panels can occasionally be easily identified by looking at the device’s exterior.

The worst thing is that, unless you ask technical questions about the solar panel’s specifications, it’s usually hard to identify low-quality material when it’s a technical or chemical combination.

5. Compare Prices as well | Don’t fall for a Cheap Price

When you get a product for far too low a price, watch closely; it might be fake. Significant price reductions from the industry average should be avoided.

Prices below the bargain may indicate fake or inferior panels. Be very careful when buying these products to avoid regrets.

6. Ensure there is a Warranty and Guarantee

A manufacturer’s warranty is usually included with genuine solar panels.

Inspect the warranty terms and conditions to ensure they correspond with industry standards. Avoid sellers who offer ambiguous or nonexistent warranties.

A good solar panel should often come with an extended warranty, spanning between 20 and 30 years. In summary, original solar panels will have a lengthy warranty, whereas counterfeit panels would either have no or a short warranty.

A trustworthy manufacturer will provide a thorough product warranty that addresses flaws and functional problems.

Certain manufacturers offer performance guarantees, guaranteeing that the panels will generate a specific quantity of electricity within a designated timeframe.

7. Check for the Serial Number

Every solar panel ought to be assigned a serial number. Check this number with the manufacturer to ensure the product is real.

8. Check for Solar Panel Specifications:

The specifications include the Watts, efficiency, and physical size.

The panel’s output is indicated by its watt rating, so pay special attention to it. In general, panels with higher wattages produce more electricity.

Examine the efficiency metrics as well. These indicate how effectively the solar panel transforms light into electrical power. Panels with higher efficiency may use solar energy more efficiently.

Check the panels’ dimensions again to ensure they will fit your roof properly.

9. Check for Local Regulations:

Recognize the laws and subsidies for solar panel installations in your area.

Certain areas might have particular demands regarding the kind and caliber of utilized panels.

These rules and incentives, including zoning restrictions, building permits, tax credits, rebates, or other financial incentives, might differ significantly from locality to locality.

When starting a solar panel installation project, it’s crucial to learn about the laws and policies that apply in your area.

10. Finally, Do your Research, and Follow your Instincts

During purchasing, if anything doesn’t feel right or you notice warning signs, follow your gut and look into other possibilities.

When purchasing, it’s crucial to follow your instincts and be cautious if something seems wrong. If you have any worries, don’t be afraid to investigate other possibilities or get guidance from reliable sources. Your financial security and safety ought to come first.

Also See: Significant Slowdown in Solar Installations in South Africa

What are the Problems of Fake Solar Panels

Regretfully, not every solar panel is made equally. The proliferation of fake panels is starting to pose a serious problem since dishonest producers are creating imitations that don’t meet safety and performance requirements.

Because these false panels are less expensive, they appeal to unsuspecting customers. However, they frequently don’t work well, produce less energy, and can be quite dangerous. Knowing where to buy these panels and what warning signs to look out for is important.

Disadvantages of Fake Solar Panels

Below are the disadvantages of fake solar panels.

1. Below Par Performance:

These panels might not produce as much electricity as anticipated, leading to greater energy costs and a more extended return on investment.

2. Reduced Lifespan:

Subpar materials and manufacturing techniques can shorten the lifespan of solar panels, necessitating expensive replacements earlier than planned.

3. Health Safety:

Safety hazards from fake solar panels could include electrical fires or structural damage.

4. Quality

Real solar panels should have a smooth, even finish and be constructed from premium materials. There could be scratches, jagged edges, or other flaws with fake panels.

You might want to see this: Top 10 Biggest Solar Farms in South Africa to Explore

Conclusion

In this guide, we have provided a step-by-step guide on identifying original Solar Panels for your home.

The increased demand for clean energy has spurred solar panel production and installation.

Therefore, it is essential to look out for fake, and not original solar panels if you want a dependable and effective solar energy system for your house or place of business.

By following our step-by-step guide, you can make sure you’re purchasing original solar panels that will give you years of pure, renewable energy.

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FAQ’s

How Do I Know Original Solar Panels?

To know the original solar panels, check for the Manufacturers of the Solar panel, look for certificates and product specifications, like IEC or UL certification marks, and ensure there are no body defects, cracks, tempered glass, or packaging defects. Also, ensure the quality of the material

What are the Problems of Fake Solar Panels?

These panels frequently don’t work well, produce less energy, and can be dangerous. Knowing where to buy these panels and what warning signs to look out for is important.

What are the disadvantages of Fake Solar Panels?

1. Below Par Performance:
2. Reduced Life Span
3. Health Safety
4. Quality

References

Firstenergy.co.za – beware of fake solar panels sold as major brands
Solareyesinternational.com – how to identify fake solar panels
Waaree.com – how to authenticate solar panels
Mrsolar.com – what is a solar panel

How to Identify Original Solar Panels for your Home (Full Guide)

Table of contents

What are Solar Panels?

Importance of Solar Panels