Solar panels need regular maintenance to function at optimum efficiency. This maintenance can include cleaning and trimming tree branches that might fall on them.
A thorough cleaning can be done at no cost to the homeowner by a professional from the company that installed their solar system. This includes an annual inspection.
Cracked Glass
Solar panels are generally quite resilient, but they can be damaged by various issues. Some problems may be repairable, while others may require replacement.
The type, size, and extent of damage will affect solar panel repair costs. For example, if a crack extends to the edges of the panel and does not go through the cell, it may be possible for a professional to solder the edges together, saving the module. However, the panel must be replaced and reinstalled if a crack is so extensive that it breaks the glass or a component.
A reputable solar contractor will provide an upfront estimate and transparently discuss charges for each item on the work order. They should be familiar with your solar system’s specific configuration and model. They should also have a track record of quality work and customer service.
Residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar systems have unique configurations that influence how the panel functions and the extent of repairs needed. For instance, larger systems typically have complex wiring networks and monitoring systems that require troubleshooting. The complexity and cost of these components can significantly increase repair prices.
If a solar panel is under warranty, it’s likely the manufacturer will cover its repair or replacement costs. If the warranty has expired, however, the homeowner is responsible for the cost.
Solar panel maintenance is important for extending the lifetime of your panels. Regular cleaning ensures optimal sunlight absorption, which maximizes energy production. It also helps identify any potential issues before they become serious. This allows you to make timely repairs and avoid costly replacements.
A reputable solar contractor will be licensed and insured and will follow a set of safety protocols. You should never attempt to open up a solar panel yourself, as you could void any remaining warranties and put your property at risk.
While a well-designed and properly installed solar system will last for decades, it’s inevitable that you will need some repairs or maintenance. Understanding the common issues that arise and how much it can cost to fix them is essential to maximizing your ROI.
Loose Connections
If you have a solar panel system and notice that the energy production is dropping or that your battery is not storing as much electricity, these may be signs that it’s time to schedule repairs. A solar professional can inspect your panels and recommend any needed repairs or maintenance.
The most common reason for a solar system to stop producing as much power is due to loose connections. This can be caused by improper installation, temperature changes, or aging, leading to a short circuit in your system. Hiring a professional with experience working on PV systems is important to ensure your cables are properly connected and not overheating.
Loose connections can cause electrical resistance, which generates heat and can lead to a fire hazard. In addition, loose connections can prevent the charge controller from sending energy to the batteries or grid. This will also result in zero amps from your solar panels, which can be dangerous and potentially deadly.
It’s also important to regularly check your solar panels’ physical condition. This will help you catch any cracks, chips, or dirt before they get worse. These issues can be fixed with a little bit of DIY work, or you can contact a professional for a more extensive repair.
Another common problem with solar panels is what’s called “snail trail contamination.” This is when brown lines appear on the surface of your solar panels, resembling a snail’s path through the soil. This can be a sign of corrosion caused by moisture and leads to oxidation of the silver paste used in the construction of your solar panels.
The most common way to avoid this issue is to regularly clean your panels using a mild soap and water mixture. This should be part of your regular maintenance routine and take no more than an hour to complete.
Another way to prevent corrosion is to install a protective barrier around the cable. This can be done by covering the cable with electrical tape or sealing it with heat shrink tubing. However, turning off your solar system before beginning any maintenance is important to prevent electrocution.
Voltage Issues
Solar panels have earned a reputation for being low maintenance and easy to manage. But, just like any other technology, solar panels need routine servicing to keep them functioning at peak performance. If you’ve noticed your system is producing less electricity, a few things may be causing the problem.
In many cases, a decreased production rate means the panel needs cleaning. Dust and dirt accumulation can significantly decrease the energy production of a solar panel. Regular cleaning and maintenance, including the use of a squeegee and lukewarm water, can help keep the panel clean and efficient.
Another common issue is the presence of micro-cracks in the panel. If left untreated, these cracks can allow moisture to enter the electrical circuit and cause a short circuit. This is why it is important to install waterproof junction boxes. If you notice the presence of cracks in your solar panels, it is important to contact a professional as soon as possible.
Other common solar panel issues that can result in reduced output include high grid network voltage and faulty circuitry. A faulty circuit can be as simple as a loose wire or as complicated as a blown fuse. To determine the cause of the problem, a professional will examine your system data from the inverter or online monitoring portal and perform tests to find the source of the issue.
In cases where the problem is caused by high grid network voltage, a simple solution may be to have your local utility retap the transformer in your area. This can reduce the voltage and improve your solar panel’s ability to produce energy.
It’s also important to remember that most solar panels come with a warranty, which can sometimes cover the cost of repair or replacement. However, labor and shipping costs are not always included in the warranty, so it is important to understand your product’s coverage before making any repairs. If you’re worried about the cost of solar panel repairs, a consultation with a local solar specialist can help you make an informed decision.
Warranty Issues
As with any complex electrical system, licensed professionals should only do solar panel repair. Opening up your panels could void any warranty agreements and be dangerous for those without the proper training. Look for contractors who are experienced in handling solar panel repairs and have an extensive background in electrical engineering. For safety reasons, they will follow warnings and instructions and always turn off your system’s power source before cleaning or repairing any components.
The cost of repairing solar panels depends on the extent and type of damage. Minor issues like microcracks and wiring problems can be repaired, but more severe damage may require replacement. A trained professional can assess the severity of the damage and determine the best course of action, balancing repair costs against the price of a new panel.
A damaged solar panel can lead to reduced energy production, electricity short circuits, and even house fires. For this reason, it’s important to identify and address any problem as soon as possible.
Many manufacturers offer warranties that cover solar panel repair or replacement. However, these warranties often come with certain conditions, such as regular maintenance. If your solar panel maintenance schedule is not up to date, your warranty might be deemed void, and you’ll be responsible for repair or replacement costs. To avoid this, enter into a solar panel maintenance contract with your installer to ensure all required maintenance is completed and any potential problems are identified and addressed as quickly as possible.
As a general rule, the longer a solar panel is in service, the fewer times it will need to be replaced. Some panels may need to be replaced sooner than others due to weather damage, faulty racking, or other factors that reduce their performance or efficiency over time. The average lifespan of a solar panel is 20 years, so it’s important to keep yours properly maintained to prevent the need for premature replacement.