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California homeowner asks how to store Tesla solar panels, gets warning about 'invisible' cracks

"You may need to use a certified installer to remove them to preserve the warranty."

A stack of solar panels secured with an orange strap, placed on wooden pallets with scattered leaves around.

Photo Credit: iStock

During a home remodeling project, one homeowner needed to figure out where to store their Tesla solar panels for a couple of months. 

The concern wasn't just finding space. The Tesla system still had roughly 15 years of warranty coverage, giving the homeowner an extra reason to be cautious.

Here's what to know

The homeowner posted on Reddit about what to do with the panels, explaining that they understood the panels were durable enough to stay outdoors for years, but they weren't sure if storing them would cause any issues with the warranty. 

"They can stay outside as long as nobody bumps into them," one commenter wrote, while another warned, "You may need to use a certified installer to remove them to preserve the warranty."


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One Reddit user linked Tesla's support page, which stated: "You are responsible for providing a safe location to store your solar panels while they are removed from your roof."

"In the end as long as you don't stack a ridiculous number on top of each other, or leave them outside with the connectors exposed, they should be fine," the commenter added. "A storage shed, shipping container, or garage is suitable."

What can be done?

Before any panels come down, it may help to review the manufacturer's instructions for removal and reinstallation. If the warranty depends on certified installers, following that requirement could help avoid coverage issues.

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Where can I learn more?

Solar panels can quickly reduce a home's energy bill, but it's important to follow manufacturer rules to ensure that the warranty isn't voided by accident. 

• A Tesla customer said a botched install, closed tickets, and budget concerns left problems unresolved.

• Researchers developed faster and cheaper ways to detect storm damage before solar failures spread.

• A homeowner was urged to seek replacements after footprints on all 12 new panels.

• A Tesla home showed that a Solar Roof earns homeowners about $350 each month in grid revenue.

• An energy expert said to make sure a roof is sound before panels go up.

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