Business

Solar Panel Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Solar panels are known for being low-maintenance and long-lasting—but like any technology, they benefit from routine upkeep and occasional troubleshooting. Keeping your solar energy system in top condition ensures maximum efficiency and extends its lifespan. In this blog, we’ll cover essential solar panel maintenance tips and guide you through common troubleshooting steps for when things don’t seem quite right.

Play Video

Why Solar Panel Maintenance Matters

Solar panels are built to withstand the elements and can operate efficiently for 25+ years. However, external factors such as dirt, debris, weather, and electrical components can affect performance over time. Regular maintenance:

• Preserves energy output
• Prevents system faults
• Increases ROI over the system's lifetime
• Helps identify potential safety issues early

Routine Maintenance Checklist

Here are the key areas to focus on when maintaining your solar panel system:

1. Visual Inspections

Conduct a visual check every few months. Look for:

• Cracked or broken panels
• Loose wiring or exposed cables
• Corrosion on mounting hardware
• Debris build-up (leaves, branches, bird droppings)

2. Panel Cleaning

Dirt and dust can reduce solar efficiency. Clean panels:

• Every 6 months, or more frequently in dusty areas
• Using a soft brush or sponge and water
• Early morning or late evening to avoid hot glass
• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the panel surface.

3. Monitor Performance

Most systems come with a monitoring app or dashboard. Keep an eye on:

• Daily energy production
• System alerts or error messages
• Sudden drops in output
• If performance seems off, it could be a sign something needs attention.

4. Inverter Check

The inverter is the heart of your system. Check for:

• Warning lights or error codes
• Unusual noises or overheating
• Proper ventilation and placement

Inverters usually last 10-15 years—shorter than panels—so you may need to replace them once during your system’s life.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Even well-maintained systems can experience issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

1. Sudden Drop in Power Output

Possible causes:

• Shading from new tree growth or obstructions
• Dirty or damaged panels
• Inverter malfunction

What to do:

• Clean panels and check for shade
• Inspect the inverter and monitoring system for errors
• Contact your installer for a professional diagnosis if issues persist

2. Inverter Not Working

Symptoms:

• No lights or display on the inverter
• System not producing any power

What to do:

• Check circuit breakers and fuses
• Confirm the inverter is receiving power
• Call a certified technician if there’s internal damage

3. Monitoring System Not Updating

Symptoms:

• Data not refreshing
• No access to live system performance

What to do:

• Reboot your Wi-Fi or data logger
• Ensure your monitoring app is up to date
• Check manufacturer FAQs or support

4. Birds or Pests Nesting Under Panels

Birds and rodents can damage wiring and compromise safety.

Solution:

• Install critter guards or mesh around the perimeter
• Clean nests/debris and inspect cables regularly

When to Call a Professional

While minor maintenance like cleaning or resetting devices can be DIY-friendly, any electrical issues, damaged components, or persistent performance drops should be handled by a licensed solar technician. Many installers offer annual service plans or warranties that include inspections and repairs.

Contact Us Support Center