Solar panels are an excellent long-term investment in clean energy, offering substantial savings on electricity bills and reducing your carbon footprint. However, like any technology exposed to the elements, solar panels can experience occasional issues. Knowing how to troubleshoot common problems not only protects your investment but also helps maintain peak system performance over time.Below, we break down some of the most frequent solar panel issues and how to address them effectively.
Reduced Energy Output
One of the most obvious signs of trouble is a noticeable drop in energy production. This could be due to:
- Dirty panels: Dust, bird droppings, and debris can block sunlight. Regular cleaning—ideally every 6 to 12 months—can often resolve this issue.
- Shading: Even partial shading from a nearby tree or structure can significantly reduce efficiency. Consider trimming trees or using microinverters that optimise each panel independently.
- Ageing components: Over time, inverter or panel performance may degrade. If your system is over a decade old, it may be time to assess whether upgrades are needed.
Inverter Malfunctions
The inverter is the heart of your solar system, converting DC electricity into usable AC power. Common inverter issues include:
- Error messages or warning lights: Most inverters will alert you when something is wrong. Check the manufacturer’s manual or online support for decoding these alerts.
- No display at all: This could indicate a tripped circuit breaker, blown fuse, or deeper internal fault.
- Low output despite sunny conditions: This may require professional diagnostics, as it could involve wiring issues, voltage irregularities, or faulty components.
Hot Spots or Damaged Cells
Physical damage to panels—caused by hail, debris, or manufacturing defects—can lead to hot spots or cracked cells. These may not be visible to the naked eye, but they can seriously affect performance and safety.This is where solar panel thermal imaging inspections come into play. By identifying temperature anomalies that indicate malfunctioning cells or connections, this non-invasive technique can pinpoint issues quickly and accurately—often before they become major problems.
Loose or Corroded Wiring
Electrical connections are exposed to weather conditions over time and can corrode or come loose. This may result in intermittent performance, system shutdowns, or even fire risk in severe cases. Always engage a qualified technician to inspect and replace faulty wiring safely.
Monitoring System Failures
If your solar monitoring app or portal stops reporting data, this doesn’t always mean your panels aren’t working. Often it’s just a Wi-Fi connection issue, a software update, or a power cycle required. Still, it’s worth checking your inverter or contacting support to rule out deeper concerns.
Weather-Related Wear and Tear
Extreme weather, from storms to high winds and heatwaves, can compromise your system – check for:
- Water ingress in junction boxes
- Panel misalignment due to wind
- Structural damage to mounting hardware
Post-storm inspections can help catch these issues early.
When to Call a Professional
While basic maintenance and cleaning can be done by the system owner, more technical issues—especially those involving electricity or internal components—should be handled by a certified solar technician. Routine inspections, including solar panel thermal imaging inspections, are a proactive way to safeguard your system’s health and longevity.
Troubleshooting your solar panel system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A combination of regular monitoring, prompt attention to anomalies, and professional support ensures your solar investment delivers consistent returns year after year. If you’re ever unsure, a professional thermal imaging inspection can provide peace of mind and detailed insight into your system’s condition.For expert diagnostics and tailored support, don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted specialists in the field.
