Solar Inverter Warranty Guide: Avoid Costly Inverter Repairs
- Sarah Lozanova
- Sep 20
- 11 min read
Table of Contents
-- Protect Your Investment With Reliable Inverter Repairs
Your solar inverter is the heart of your solar energy system, converting DC power from your panels into usable AC power for your home. When your inverter fails, the entire system can underperform or shut down, leading to lost energy savings and higher utility bills.
That’s why understanding your solar inverter warranty is so important. For example, the SolarEdge inverter warranty covers string inverters for 12 years by default, with the option to extend coverage to 20 or even 25 years depending on the model. These inverter warranty periods protect you from defects and premature failures, but the process for filing claims isn’t always simple.
By comparison, Enphase microinverter warranties typically last 25 years, matching most solar panel lifespans. SMA inverter warranties usually start at 10 years with options to extend, though terms can vary by product and region. Each manufacturer handles claims differently, which can leave homeowners in a difficult position, especially if the original installer is no longer in business.
At GreenLancer, we see this often. Our team regularly helps homeowners process SolarEdge warranty and Enphase warranty claims, coordinating with manufacturers and local technicians to get systems back online quickly. We’ve handled everything from inverter swaps under warranty to out-of-pocket repairs when coverage expired.
If you need a professional solution, GreenLancer can help. We specialize in solar inverter repairs, warranty claim assistance, and system upgrades—so your solar investment continues to perform at its best.
How Long Does a Solar Inverter Warranty Last?
The length of a solar inverter warranty depends on the type of inverter you have. Standard warranties range from 5 to 25 years, with most string inverter warranties covering 5 to 12 years, while microinverter warranties often last 20 to 25 years. Since microinverters are installed individually on each panel, they typically have a longer lifespan and more extensive coverage.
Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an additional cost, but coverage varies. While a standard inverter warranty typically covers defects and failures, extended warranties may extend coverage for parts, but not always labor or service costs. Some manufacturers provide refurbished replacements instead of new units. Reviewing your warranty terms can help avoid unexpected solar inverter replacement costs if you experience inverter failure.
What’s Covered Under a Solar Inverter Warranty?
A solar inverter warranty can vary by manufacturer, so it’s important to know exactly what’s included. Some warranties offer full coverage, while others leave you responsible for certain costs.
Parts vs. labor: Many inverter warranties cover only the replacement part, meaning you’ll have to pay out of pocket for labor and service fees. Some extended warranties may include labor coverage, reducing your overall repair costs.
Shipping and replacement costs: If your solar inverter replacement is covered, check whether shipping costs are included. Some warranties provide free replacements, while others require you to pay for shipping or offer refurbished units instead of new ones.
Comparing String Inverter Warranty vs. Microinverter Warranty
When it comes to solar inverter warranties, the coverage length and terms vary between string inverters and microinverters. The type of inverter you have affects how long your warranty lasts, what’s covered, and the likelihood of needing a solar inverter replacement.
String Inverter Warranty
Most string inverters come with a 5- to 12-year warranty, though some manufacturers offer extended warranty options for added protection. Since a string inverter failure affects multiple solar panels at once, it can cause significant system downtime.
Some warranties cover replacement costs, but labor and shipping fees may not always be included. Checking your inverter warranty details can help you avoid unexpected expenses if your inverter fails.
Microinverter Warranty
Microinverters often include a 20- to 25-year microinverter warranty. Because microinverters are installed on individual panels, a single inverter failure won’t shut down your entire system.
Many microinverter warranties cover both parts and labor, making repairs easier if issues arise. However, verifying coverage details is important, as some manufacturers may require specific installation or maintenance practices to keep the warranty valid.
Which inverter type has higher failure rates?
String inverters generally have higher failure rates than microinverters, meaning you’re more likely to need a solar inverter replacement sooner if you have a string inverter system. While microinverters last longer, failures can still happen, and replacing them on individual panels can add up over time. Understanding your inverter warranty coverage ensures you're prepared for potential repairs and replacement costs.
Solar Inverter Warranties by Manufacturer
Manufacturer | Inverter Type | Standard Solar Inverter Warranty | Extended Warranty Available? |
Enphase | Microinverter | 25 years | No |
SolarEdge | Optimizer + String | 12 years | Up to 25 years |
Fronius | String | 10 years | Yes |
SMA | String | 5-10 years | Yes |
Growatt | String | 5-10 years | Yes |
ABB (FIMER) | String | 10-12 years | Yes |
Every manufacturer offers different solar inverter warranty terms, covering a mix of parts, labor, and shipping costs. Some warranties include full solar inverter replacement, while others may require the owner to cover installation or shipping fees. Understanding what’s included in your inverter warranty can help you plan for potential inverter failure and repair costs.
Here’s a breakdown of solar inverter warranties by major manufacturers:
When you choose Enphase microinverters, you’re backed by the Enphase warranty, which gives you 25 years of coverage, matching the lifespan of most solar panels. That means your entire solar system is protected long-term.
The Enphase warranty covers defective microinverters and includes return shipping, but it doesn’t usually cover your labor costs. If a microinverter ever fails, you’ll still need to pay an installer to remove and replace it if the labor warranty on your system has expired or your original solar installer has closed down.
One advantage of Enphase systems is the real-time monitoring through the Enlighten app. You’ll get alerts if anything goes wrong, helping you catch issues early and minimize lost energy production. And if you had your system installed by an Enphase-certified installer, you may be eligible for extra support or faster service.
If you have a SolarEdge inverter system, the SolarEdge warranty helps protect your investment by covering the replacement of faulty inverters and components. You’ll get 12 years of standard coverage on residential inverters, with the option to extend a SolarEdge warranty up to 25 years. Power optimizers come with a 25-year warranty, so they’re covered for the long haul—just like your solar panels.
The SolarEdge warranty also includes free shipping for replacement units in the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii. However, you’ll typically be responsible for labor costs—such as hiring a technician to uninstall and reinstall the inverter. Those expenses aren’t included in the standard warranty.
If you want more comprehensive coverage, you can upgrade to Power Care Premium, which includes labor, expedited service, and onsite support. This helps reduce downtime and limits surprise costs when something needs servicing.
Fronius provides a 10-year inverter warranty with an option to extend coverage. Their warranty covers replacement parts, and in some cases, labor costs may be included, but shipping fees could be the responsibility of the homeowner.
Fronius does try to make the process easier by offering extended warranty options that can include more robust coverage. Some installers also bundle extended protection into the initial installation, so it’s worth checking your paperwork carefully. If your installer is no longer in business, you may need to contact Fronius directly or work with a service provider who can coordinate warranty claims and dispatch a licensed professional to complete the repair.
SMA provides a 5- to 10-year string inverter warranty, depending on the model, with an option to purchase an extended warranty for additional coverage. Standard coverage includes replacement parts and shipping costs, but labor for diagnosis and installation may not always be included. Some extended warranties offer additional benefits, such as expedited replacements or on-site service options.
What Can Void a Solar Inverter Warranty?
Your solar inverter warranty protects you from unexpected inverter failure, but certain actions or conditions can void your coverage. Knowing what to avoid can help you maintain your inverter warranty and prevent costly repairs.
DIY Inverter Repairs – Attempting to fix your inverter yourself can immediately void your solar inverter warranty. Most manufacturers—including SolarEdge—require that only certified installers or service professionals perform repairs or replacements.
For example, the SolarEdge warranty specifically states that unauthorized modifications or servicing void the coverage. That said, it’s still a good idea to try troubleshooting inverter issues yourself, like checking your internet connection or updating the inverter firmware.
Extreme Weather Damage – While inverters are built to withstand outdoor conditions, damage from floods, excessive heat, lightning, or pests may not be covered. Some warranties specifically exclude environmental factors, so it’s important to check the terms of your inverter warranty. However, your homeowner's insurance policy may cover some solar repairs.
Poor Installation – If your inverter was installed incorrectly or doesn’t meet manufacturer guidelines, the string inverter warranty or microinverter warranty may not apply. Improper wiring, incorrect placement, or failure to follow local electrical codes can all lead to inverter failure and a denied warranty claim.
To keep your solar inverter warranty valid, use high-quality professionals for installation and repairs. If your inverter needs servicing, GreenLancer provides expert solar inverter replacement and repair services to get your system running again. We service all major inverter brands—including Enphase, SolarEdge, and SMA—to help ensure your system stays reliable and your warranty remains intact.
How to File a Solar Inverter Warranty Claim
When an inverter fails, many homeowners are surprised by how complicated the warranty process can feel. For some, it’s as simple as calling their installer and waiting for a technician to show up. For others, especially those whose original installer is out of business, the process involves tracking down documents, talking directly to the manufacturer, and waiting on replacement parts that can take weeks to arrive.
In these cases, GreenLancer can step in to file the solar inverter warranty claim on your behalf and complete the repair.
Step 1: Locate Your Warranty Documents
Whether you have a SolarEdge inverter warranty or coverage from another manufacturer, the first step is always the same: to track down your paperwork. Some of our customers have discovered that their solar inverter warranties had been registered online, so they were able to log into the manufacturer’s portal to download the details. However you find it, knowing the exact inverter warranty period helps you understand what’s still covered.
Step 2: Contact Your Installer or Manufacturer
If your installer is still in business, they can usually walk you through the inverter warranty claim. But countless homeowners have found themselves calling a number that no longer works. In those cases, the manufacturer or a new solar repair technician is the next stop.
Some inverter manufacturers, such as SolarEdge and Enphase, offer helpful support lines, while others require you to provide very specific details before they’ll even open a case. For homeowners who feel stuck, GreenLancer can step in. We help coordinate warranty claims, work with manufacturers, and connect you with licensed professionals in your area who can handle the repair or replacement.
Step 3: Provide Proof of Purchase and System Details
Most manufacturers require the inverter model number, installation date, proof of purchase, and any error codes from your system’s monitoring portal. This is typically required information for getting an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization).
Step 4: Wait for Inverter Warranty Approval & Schedule a Repair
Once your claim is approved, the manufacturer will usually issue an RMA before shipping a replacement unit or authorizing repairs. Some inverter warranties cover labor and shipping, while others leave those costs to the homeowner. If you need professional repairs or a new inverter installed, GreenLancer’s network of licensed experts can step in to complete the work and get your system producing power again.
Is an Extended Solar Inverter Warranty Worth It?
Choosing an extended solar inverter warranty depends on your system’s setup and how long you expect it to operate. A standard inverter warranty typically lasts between 5 and 12 years and covers manufacturing defects or early inverter failure. If your solar system is essential for reducing your electric bill, a longer warranty can help avoid high solar inverter replacement costs and provide peace of mind.
Should you invest in a longer SolarEdge Warranty?
If you have a string inverter system, extending your SolarEdge warranty may be a smart investment. Most standard string inverter warranties last between 5 and 12 years, and inverter failure during this period can result in complete system shutdown, leading to lost solar production and unexpected costs.
A longer SolarEdge inverter warranty can help protect against expensive replacements and provide peace of mind. In contrast, Enphase microinverter warranties typically last 20 to 25 years, aligning with the lifespan of solar panels, so additional coverage is usually unnecessary for those systems.
Cost vs. Benefit: Should You Invest in Longer Coverage?
For example, a 25-year SolarEdge inverter warranty is available for homeowners who want long-term protection against inverter faults and repair costs. If you have a SolarEdge system, upgrading your SolarEdge warranty could help prevent major expenses due to string inverter failure.
In contrast, the Enphase warranty already includes 25 years of coverage for microinverters, so an extended warranty usually isn’t needed. Always check what’s included in your solar inverter warranty—some plans cover parts only, while others include labor, shipping, and expedited service.
FAQs on Solar Inverter Warranties
Get answers to many of your common questions regarding SolarEdge inverter warranty coverage, inverter RMAs, and who to contact for support.
Do inverter warranties cover both parts and labor?
Most solar inverter warranties cover replacement parts, but labor is a different story. Manufacturers like SolarEdge and SMA usually ship replacement units under warranty but leave labor costs, such as uninstalling and reinstalling the inverter, to the homeowner. Some extended inverter warranty periods add labor coverage, but you’ll need to check your paperwork carefully.
What is an RMA in solar inverter warranties?
An RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) is the process manufacturers use to handle warranty claims. If your inverter fails, the manufacturer may require a solar RMA before shipping a replacement. This involves providing system details, like the model number, installation date, and proof of purchase, so they can verify coverage. Once approved, they’ll send the replacement unit or parts, but you may still be responsible for labor costs. Companies like GreenLancer can help file the inverter RMA application and coordinate the repair.
How long does the solar RMA process usually take?
The RMA process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the manufacturer and how quickly you provide system details. Some homeowners reported getting an approval and shipping confirmation in under a week, while others waited over a month for replacement units.
Who do I contact if my installer is out of business, but I need inverter warranty support?
If your installer has closed, you can either contact the manufacturer, such as SolarEdge customer service, or a solar repair service to handle the claim. Most manufacturers require an RMA before shipping a replacement inverter, which means submitting proof of purchase, system details, and error codes. Many homeowners find inverter warranty paperwork confusing, so providers like GreenLancer can manage the RMA and connect you with licensed technicians for the repair.
Are shipping costs included in solar inverter warranties?
Shipping policies vary widely. For example, the SolarEdge warranty includes free shipping in the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii. Other manufacturers may require you to pay for inbound or outbound freight when processing an inverter warranty claim. It’s a detail worth checking before you assume everything is covered.
Can I transfer my inverter warranty if I sell my home?
Yes, many solar inverter warranties are transferable, but the process usually requires submitting updated ownership information and proof of the original installation. Some manufacturers also charge a fee—Enphase, for example, has a $199 change-of-ownership fee to transfer the inverter warranty and monitoring account. Without completing the transfer, the inverter warranty period may not carry over to the new homeowner.
Protect Your Solar Investment With Reliable Inverter Repairs
A strong solar inverter warranty helps protect you from unexpected inverter failure, but regular maintenance and professional repairs keep your system running at its best. If you need help with a solar inverter replacement or troubleshooting issues, GreenLancer can help.
Whether you have a string inverter warranty or a microinverter warranty, knowing your coverage and having the right support ensures your solar investment keeps delivering reliable energy for years to come.
Need reliable and affordable solar inverter repairs, PV panel replacement, or troubleshooting? GreenLancer provides on-demand solar system repair services with expert maintenance to keep your solar system running efficiently.
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