Don't Get Fooled by "25-Year Warranty"! Exposing 3 Common Word Traps in Solar Contracts

Don't Get Fooled by "25-Year Warranty"! Exposing 3 Common Word Traps in Solar Contracts

Solar Smart Guide

Don't Get Fooled by "25-Year Warranty"! Exposing 3 Common Word Traps in Solar Contracts

From inverter lifespan to hidden labor costs, Solar100 teaches you how to read the fine print.


"Boss, don't worry! This solar panel has a 25-year warranty!"

This is the favorite line of many salespeople, and it's also the biggest misconception among Malaysian homeowners. Many assume that once solar is installed, the manufacturer will fix anything for free for the next 25 years. This is absolutely incorrect.

A solar system contract actually contains three completely different warranty periods. If you don't look closely, you could face thousands of Ringgit in repair costs when your inverter fails in Year 6. Today, Solar100 breaks down the truth behind these clauses.


Trap 1: Product vs. Performance Warranty

This is the biggest confusion. For solar panels, the so-called "25 years" usually refers to the Performance Warranty, guaranteeing that power output won't drop below 80% after 25 years.

However, if the panel glass cracks, water leaks in, or the frame rusts, this falls under the Product Warranty.

  • Generic Brands: Product warranty is often only 10-12 years.
  • Solar100 Standard: We prioritize Tier-1 brands that often offer 15-25 years of dual protection.

Trap 2: The Inverter's Lifespan

Solar panels rarely fail, but the Inverter is the electronic "heart" working under high load every day. It is the most fragile part of the system.

"Many budget packages in the market only offer a 5-year warranty for inverters. In Malaysia's hot weather, electronic components often start to fail around Year 7 or 8."

Smart Tip: Before signing, ask if you can extend the warranty to 10 years. Although it costs a bit more upfront, it is a much better investment than replacing a brand-new inverter (RM3,000 - RM5,000+) in the future.


Trap 3: Workmanship & Labor Costs

Even if your equipment is under warranty, there is a hidden cost called "Labor Fee." Warranty terms usually fall into two categories:

  • Carry-in: The manufacturer fixes it, but YOU must dismantle and ship the device to them (at your own cost). This is impossible for most homeowners.
  • On-site: The installer commits to coming to your house for inspection and replacement for free.

Solar100's Promise: Total Peace of Mind

At Solar100, we understand the frustration of poor after-sales support. That’s why our Verified Partners must meet our strict warranty audit standards: clearly listed On-site Service terms and reliable Operation & Maintenance (O&M) support.

Don't let a vague contract become your future burden.

🛡️ Want a "Comprehensive Warranty"?

Match with Local Experts offering 10+ Year Coverage

 
 
 
On-Site Warranty Tier-1 Brands

© 2026 Solar100.com.my. All Rights Reserved.
Empowering Malaysia towards renewable energy adoption.