We’ve made many strides in the last few years towards clean energy — one of the biggest changes is how easy and affordable it is now to get solar panels. While solar panels are an excellent investment for clean energy, homeowners should know they can encounter a handful of issues over time.
This article explores typical problems with solar panels and provides practical solutions to help maintain efficiency and longevity. Specifically, we’ll look at the following solar problems:
- Dirty or dusty panels
- Shading issues
- Loose or damaged wiring
- Faulty inverters
Knowing about the most common solar panel issues helps you know what to look out for, so you can spot the warning signs early.
Keep Your Solar Panels Working Properly
Your solar electric panels were an investment, so you must give them the necessary maintenance and care. If you need solar panel repairs, contact Celestial Solar today. We only hire factory-trained technicians, so you know you always get experienced, quality help.
Dirty or Dusty Panels
You may keep your home spotless, but you’re unlikely to climb up to your solar panels and clean them every week. So, it’s only natural that dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on them. But buildup on the solar panels can reduce how much light is absorbed, making them less efficient.
Solar panels must be cleaned regularly to maintain optimal performance. You can typically do this with a high-pressure washer and mild soap. However, this DIY technique still won’t get your panels 100% clean, so schedule professional maintenance twice a year as well. Professional technicians have the tools to give your panels a thorough wash.
Shading Issues
Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstacles can affect solar panel performance. Anything that blocks full sun exposure reduces the panels’ efficiency.
You might think that some shade in one corner of your roof won’t have that much of an impact. After all, if 5% of your panels are covered by shade, you only lose 5% efficiency, right? Well, that logic doesn’t hold true for solar panels.
Solar panels work as one cohesive system and blocking even one small section with shade can break the link in the system. Studies have shown that covering just one panel with shade can decrease the model’s output by 50%- 80%.
The solution is to minimize any shade that obstructs your solar panels. You might need to trim trees or even reposition your panels. If moving your panels is needed, always contact a professional for this type of job. The risk of damaging your panels makes a DIY approach ill-advised.
Loose or Damaged Wiring
Loose or damaged wiring in solar panel systems can disrupt the electrical flow and reduce energy production. Wiring problems are often caused by corrosion, damage, or poor installation.
It’s never safe to try to fix wiring issues on your own. You run the risk of hurting yourself or others, starting an electrical fire, or permanently damaging your panels. Instead, schedule a professional inspection and let the experienced technicians handle the electrical repairs.
Faulty Inverters
Solar power systems consist of batteries, inverters, panels, and a meter. The solar panels generate electricity, and the inverters convert DC electricity to AC electricity, which can be used to power the household.
Solar inverters typically last between 10 and 25 years, depending on the type. However, they can also break down and need maintenance over the years. Some of the common factors that can cause an inverter to become faulty are overheating, wear and tear, poor installation, high humidity levels, and infrequent maintenance.
If your inverter isn’t working, scheduling a maintenance call is your best option. Your inverter is critical to your solar panel system and you’ll want to get it fixed as soon as possible.
To avoid future inverter issues, consider scheduling regular inverter maintenance checks.
Contact Us for Solar Panel Maintenance Today
Being proactive in solar electric panel maintenance is the best way to ensure your system is as efficient as possible, saves you the most money, and lasts a long time.
Celestial Solar has been proud to provide the highest-quality solar products and services since 2001. You can rest assured that any maintenance and repairs made on your solar panels will be with products proudly made in the USA. Let us help you keep your solar panels in the best shape possible.
