Solar Panel Repair: Usual Problems and Solutions

A lot of people seem to think that solar panel repair is a difficult and expensive task. While this can sometimes be the case, there are still a couple of solar panel problems that can be handled by the average homeowner without too much trouble. Of course, there are times when it’s best to call in a pro – but how do you know when that is? In this blog post, we will discuss some common problems with solar panels and what you can do about them. We’ll also provide some tips for determining when it’s time to call in the big guns!

Foreign Substance Buildup

One of the most common solar panel problems is foreign substance buildup. Over time, your panels will accumulate dust, dirt, pollen, and other debris that can interfere with their ability to absorb sunlight. This buildup can be especially bad in areas that are prone to wind and dust storms. If you live in such an area, then you might be experiencing this problem more often than most.

The good news is that foreign substance buildup is relatively easy to fix. All you need to do is clean your panels on a regular basis – at least once every few months, or more often if necessary. There are a few different ways to clean solar panels, but the most important thing is to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. You don’t want to damage the delicate solar cells with a harsh cleaning solution!

Using some warm water with a small amount of mild soap should be enough to get the job done in most cases. If your panels are particularly dirty, you can use a soft-bristled brush to lightly scrub away the grime. Just be sure not to apply too much pressure, as this could also damage the solar cells. You can then use a hose or low-pressure sprayer to remove any remaining soap residue or debris.

Once you’ve cleaned your solar panels, it’s important to check them regularly for any new buildup. This way, you can catch the problem early and avoid having to do a deep cleaning too often.

Pest and Insect Infestation

Another solar panel problem that is relatively common – especially in rural areas – is pest and insect infestation. Birds, rodents, and other small animals can sometimes build nests on or near solar panels, which can block the sunlight from reaching the solar cells. In some cases, these pests can also chew through electrical wiring, causing even more damage.

If you suspect that your solar panels are infested with pests, then it’s important to take action right away. The first step is to identify the type of pest that is causing the problem. This can be tricky, but there are a few tell-tale signs that can help you narrow it down. For example, if you see bird droppings on your solar panels, then you can pretty much be sure that birds are the culprit. If you see gnaw marks on electrical wires, then rodents are probably to blame.

Once you’ve identified the type of pest, you can take steps to get rid of them. If birds are the problem, then you might need to install bird netting or spikes around your solar panels. For rodents, traps and baits might do the trick. For insects, you might need to apply a pesticide specifically designed for solar panels.

If vermin and other pests are a regular problem in your area, then installing pest guards on your solar panels can be a good preventative measure. These guards will help to keep pests away from your solar panels, making it less likely that they will cause damage. There are a number of different types of pest guards available, from galvanized steel meshes, to PVC-coated wires, to plastic strips. Depending on your solar panel setup, one of these options should be able to work for you.

Micro-Cracks

Micro-cracks or micro-fractures are tiny cracks in the solar cells that make up your solar panel. These are invisible to the naked eye, but they can have a big impact on the performance of your solar panel. Micro-cracks can be caused by several different things, including manufacturing defects, physical damage, or even thermal stress.

Even if you’re careful, your solar panels will inevitably sustain some damage over time. The good news is that most minor damage – such as scratches and small cracks – won’t have a significant impact on the performance of your solar panels. However, if the damage is severe enough, it can start to impede the flow of electricity, causing your solar panels to be less efficient.

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to fix micro-cracks. In most cases, the only solution is to replace the solar panel entirely. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, so it’s important to try to avoid micro-cracks in the first place. The best way to do this is to handle your solar panels carefully and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.

If you notice that your solar panels have sustained some damage, then it’s important to have them checked out by a professional. They will be able to assess the severity of the damage and advise you on the best course of action. You may also check the warranty of your solar panels to see if the damage is covered.

Loose Wiring

Loose wiring is another solar panel problem that can cause a loss of efficiency. Solar panels are full of electrical wires, and over time, these wires can become loose or disconnected. This can happen due to physical damage, or simply from the vibration of the solar panels as they move in the wind.

If your solar panels have loose wiring, then it’s important to have the problem fixed as soon as possible. Loose wiring can cause all sorts of problems, from solar panels that don’t work at all, to solar panels that catch fire. Even the smallest wiring fault can have a big impact, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

If you’re feeling confident and have some background or experience with it, then you may be able to fix the problem yourself. However, it’s important to exercise caution, as solar panels can be dangerous if they are not handled correctly. In most cases, the best way to fix loose wiring is to hire a professional solar panel company that specializes in solar panel repair. They use meters and other tools to correctly identify and fix the problem.

Hot Spots

Another solar panel problem that can cause a loss of efficiency is hot spots. Hot spots are areas on the solar panel where the solar cells are generating too much heat. They occur when a solar panel is shaded and the solar cells are not able to dissipate the heat properly.

Hot spots aren’t visible to the naked eye, but you’ll be able to tell if your solar panel has one if it starts to perform poorly. Hot spots can be a big problem, as they can cause solar panels to stop working entirely. In some cases, hot spots can also cause solar panels to catch fire. There are instances that a huge difference in appearances like a brown spot or a solar panel that is discolored will indicate a hot spot.

The best way to fix hot spots is to have the solar panel replaced by a professional solar panel company as they will be able to properly identify and fix the problem. But if the solar panel is still under warranty, then you may be able to get it repaired or replaced for free. You can also try to prevent hot spots from happening in the first place by regularly cleaning your solar panels, keeping them free from debris, and regularly checking for signs of shading.

Final Thoughts

Solar panel repair can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it’s important to remember that solar panels are a long-term investment. By taking care and regularly checking for signs of damage, solar panel repairs can be prevented, which will save you time and money in the long run. Solar panels are a great way to save on your energy bill, so it’s important to take care of them.

With proper solar panel maintenance, you can rest assured that your solar panels will continue to work properly for years to come. But if you do notice any problems with your solar panel system that you’re not able to fix yourself, then it’s important to contact a professional solar panel company as soon as possible. They will be able to properly assess the problem and advise you on the best course of action.