Getting Bids? Be sure to ask about the Solar Racking.

Solar Racking, the equipment that holds the solar panels in place on your roof, is often overlooked when deciding which solar energy system or installation company to choose.

Understandably a lot of attention is given to the cost of solar panels, their efficiency, the warranty, and even the aesthetics when choosing a solar energy system and installer. The solar racking though, is a very important part of the system – after all, it’s what holds your investment in place!

Most solar energy systems are a collection of different pieces and parts produced by different companies that are put together by the installer. Each one of those pieces and parts comes with their own warranty.  Each warranty most likely comes with a different warranty expiration date. The solar installer may claim that the solar panels they install come with a 10-25 year warranty. (Read about warranty differences) Remember, that is the warranty is for the panels themselves. In addition to the solar panel, be sure to ask about the length of warranty for the inverter, and yes – the racking.  A common warranty in the industry for racking is 10 years. It’s a pretty important piece of the solar energy system especially if you have a roof with a steep pitch or live in an area with strong wind. Replacing the racking could be expensive when considering the cost of removing the solar panels, replacing existing racking and reinstalling the panels, especially if you are still paying for the initial system investment.

There is ONE company in the solar industry that creates a solar energy system with ONE warranty, SunPower. SunPower’s 25 Year Complete Confidence Warranty includes the solar panels, the inverter, and THE SOLAR RACKING. Why? Because SunPower manufactures all of the components of their system. The owner can expect clean configuration and design, consistent performance, and efficient integration. With SunPower you have peace of mind that your investment is not only secure on your roof but a secure investment for 25 years.

How can SunPower cover their solar racking for 25 years when other companies only warranty for 10? SunPower designed their racking system to pair specifically with SunPower modules. That means the racking fits securely. Other manufacturers have designed their racking to adjust for panels made by different manufacturers with different dimensions. The InvisMount racking system from SunPower holds their panels securely in place with style by eliminating visible mounting hardware, rails and exterior hardware. The panels appear to “float” on the roof thanks to the hidden mid and end clamps and capped flush rails. The hardware has an adaptive design for secure installation on almost any roof type, including: shingle, flat or curved tile. Materials used include: stainless steel, black anodized aluminum, and black acetal copolymer. The InvisMount racking system can bare temperatures of -40° F to 194° F and max. loads of 3000 Pa uplift and 6000 Pa downforce.

Some racking manufacturers warranties claim different warranty expiration dates for different pieces and parts. For example: “20 years for aluminum products, and 10 years for all other products”