Types of Solar Panel Repairs

Solar panels are a great investment that save you money on electricity bills. However, like all appliances they will need maintenance from time to time.

A reliable solar panel company will carry out regular cleaning and inspections of your system to make sure it is functioning at optimal efficiency.

Damaged Panels

Even though solar panels are designed to be durable, they will not last forever. There are several types of damage that can occur to your panels, and some can be repaired while others may require replacement.

Regular exposure to the sun, wind, and rain causes solar panel components to wear down over time. The material that converts sunlight to energy wears down at a rate of about 1% per degree, so regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimum performance.

During your solar maintenance service, a technician will check the condition of your solar panels and all electrical connections. They will also clean your solar panels, as dirt can reduce their efficiency.

If you see silvery lines on your solar panels, it is a sign that the panels are developing micro-cracks or delamination. This is not a good thing, as it will significantly reduce the panel’s lifespan and power production. If the panels are shattered, they will likely be beyond repair and will need to be replaced.

Dirty Panels

While solar panels require very little technical maintenance they do need to be cleaned a few times a year. This is especially important for coastal areas where marine layer residue can build up on the panels, reducing their efficiency.

Over time, a solar panel’s surface can lose up to 10% of its peak performance. This is normal and reflected in the manufacturer’s warranty. It can also be triggered by a number of issues including dirty panels.

A reputable solar company will clean your panels with a specialist hose and cleaning solution. They will also inspect the meter, inverter, roof and cabling. They will test all electrical connections and look for signs of bird droppings and potential induced PID (PID is when the electrical pathways within the panels become damaged). They will also monitor your energy production and provide regular technician health checks. These can be found in your My Account or the AGL App under the Solar Status feature.

Damaged Inverter

There are a number of reasons why solar inverters can fail, including overheating, which may cause component damage. It’s also possible that your battery is low on charge or a power switch on the inverter is faulty. It’s important to monitor your energy production over time and be aware of any significant dips in performance, which could indicate an issue with the inverter.

Solar thermal systems don’t have as much electrical wiring as solar PV and hybrid solar, but this does not mean that they are immune to problems with the system’s electrical connections. They can become dirty over time, which reduces efficiency, and loose wiring may interrupt the DC voltage charge from the panels to the inverter. A good solar maintenance firm will check all of the electrical connections, as well as the condition of the meter and roof. They will also test the inverter for any errors. If the inverter is found to be faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Damaged Cables

If your solar panels show signs of physical damage or faulty wiring, it’s time to take action. Physical damage may result from severe weather conditions, falling debris, or age-related wear and tear. Faulty wiring is a more serious problem that requires professional repair or replacement.

Electrical cable insulation and connections can be damaged by corrosion, which can cause overheating. This issue is a common reason for tripped circuit breakers, and it can also decrease the amount of energy your solar panel system produces.

Corrosion can be prevented by cleaning the corroded cable connectors with a mild acid (like vinegar). Then, use a heat gun to shrink tubing around them to protect against future corrosion. In addition, a corrosion inhibitor can be applied to help prevent further problems. The most obvious sign that your solar panel system needs repairs or maintenance is a significant decrease in energy production. Monitor your system’s performance online to spot a sudden drop in power output and act accordingly.

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