Like any system, there’ll be times when your home solar panel system may decide to call it quits. Whether it’s because parts have broken or simply because they have aged out, one small issue can at times cause large scale errors within your system.
While sometimes there may be warning lights or signals to tip off these issues, most of the time, it can be quite difficult to determine the cause for your solar system not working. Luckily, however, there are some problems that are more common than others, which could be handy to keep in mind the next time your system decides to cark it.
If your solar panels aren’t working, it may help to read through these six common problems to see if you can identify the root cause. Please note, you should not attempt to fix any electrical issues on your solar system without the help of a licensed professional. Always contact a licensed solar installer to conduct any electrical repairs on your system.
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How do I know if my solar panels are working?
While many people think that the best way to monitor the performance of your solar panels is through your electricity bill, this isn’t always necessarily the case. This is because there are several factors that go into your electricity bill, such as seasonal fluctuations in production, changes in usage or daily supply rates or changes in household usage, which could also be influencing a change in costs.
An easier way to know the status of your system is to get a solar monitoring system, which can report the output data and immediately alert you if anything changes within your system. Alternatively, regularly checking your solar meter is another way of keeping track of your system’s energy output in real time.
Compare Solar Plans and Providers
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3911kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4613kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4011kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
What are the six most common solar panel problems?
1. Malfunctioning breaker switches
Breaker switches are what control the flow of electricity into the home. If there is an issue with one of these switches then it may be preventing energy from travelling to household appliances from your panels.
This issue is an easy one to check though. All you need to do is open your breaker box and check if any of the switches are turned off. If they are, simply turn them back on. If this does not fix the issue then it is best to call in the professionals to take a look.
2. Shading or dirt
As solar panels use the sun to generate energy, if this sunlight is blocked in any way it can have an impact on the output of the panel. This can include both shading from surrounding vegetation or buildings as well as any build-up of dirt and debris that can happen over time.
A potential solution to at least remove the impact of dirt and debris is to regularly get them professionally serviced.
3. Inverter issues
The job of a solar inverter is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity that solar panels create to alternating current (AC) in order for it to be used in the home. Without this conversion, the electricity created by the solar panels is effectively useless.
If you suspect that this is the issue, you will need to talk to your solar installer or manufacturer directly. Inverters are generally not as durable as solar panels themselves so you might find that you have to replace the inverter within the solar panels’ lifetime in order to maintain the level of output.
Read More: What is the best solar inverter for my home?
4. Micro cracks
Micro cracks are a form of solar cell degradation that can reduce the efficiency and performance of your system. It can happen as a result of the Photovolatic (PV) module production or from seasonal and thermal conditions. As time goes on the cracks will become more extensive, requiring you to resolve the issue before the electricity generated by the solar panels can go back to normal.
This is not an issue you can fix yourself and will require the help of a professional in order to ensure that the system is repaired correctly.
5. Installation issues
If you’ve noticed that your solar system is not producing as much as you were expecting, then there may have been a mistake or misconnection during the installation process that is causing the system to malfunction or have a decreased output. This is where it is important to do your research before installation to make sure you have a quality installer.
You will have to contact an expert to diagnose the issue and fix it. You should also make sure the system is working properly before they leave to avoid additional callouts.
6. Broken panels
Solar panels are a hefty investment, but if a panel is broken, depending on your setup and the type of inverters you have installed, it could not only impact the individual solar panel energy generation but the entire system.
Depending on what’s wrong with the panel, it can be difficult to repair so replacement may be your best option. This is why it is important to know what the solar PV system warranty covers.
Your best bet in this situation is to contact a professional to determine whether or not the panel is broken, if it is capable of being fixed and what the best course of action is.
Read More: How to choose the right solar panels for my home
Can I fix my solar system myself?
Any electrical work to be undertaken on your system will need to be carried out by a licensed professional. It is not recommended for homeowners to repair their solar systems without the assistance of a solar manufacturer, installer or a qualified solar electrician.
There are some steps that homeowners can safely undergo to identify issues, such as checking the breaker box, clearing obstructions around the panels and checking for flashing lights on their solar installer. However, all repairs and upgrades to the system will need to be conducted by a licensed professional. If you need assistance finding a professional for the job, it may be best to call your installer and ask for advice. Alternatively, your installer may have a helpline listed on your invoice which can be called at this time.
Image Credit: Wichien Tepsuttinun/shutterstock.com.au
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