If you’re one of the many Aussies who’ve gone solar for your home, you’re in good company. With over 3 million solar installations across the country, we’re the world’s biggest residential solar market. But even the sunniest solutions have a few clouds. Let’s get to the bottom of the common problems your solar panels might have and how to keep them humming.
Top Issues When Solar Panels Are Not Working
Dirt and Debris on Solar Panels: The Silent Killers
Living in a sunburnt country means we get a lot of dust, and lots of it. Dust, leaves and even the occasional bird dropping can build up on your panels and block sunlight and reduce efficiency. In fact, dirty panels can lose up to 5% of their output. Cleaning solar panels regularly can keep them in top shape.
Shading: When Shadows Cast Doubt
Trees grow, new buildings pop up and suddenly your once sunny panels are playing hide and seek with the shadows. Even partial shading can impact your system’s performance. Keep an eye out for potential obstructions and consider trimming trees or adjusting panel placement if needed.
Solar Inverter Issues: The Heart of the Problem
Your inverter is the behind-the-scenes hero of your solar setup, converting DC power from the panels into usable AC power for your home. But like any hardworking Aussie, it can sometimes struggle. If you suspect inverter issues, it’s important to check the circuit breaker as it plays a crucial role in protecting the inverter and connections. Common signs of inverter trouble include:
- Strange noises
- Error messages on the display
- Unexplained drops in energy production
Hot Spots: When Things Get Too Hot
Australia’s hot summers can be brutal on solar panels. Tripped circuit breakers can be a sign of overheating issues. Hot spots occur when part of a panel overheats, can cause damage and reduce efficiency. Regular checks can catch these problems early.
Micro-cracks: The Hidden Danger
These tiny cracks in solar cells can occur during manufacturing, transport or installation. Not visible to the naked eye, they can grow over time and affect panel performance.
Corrosion and Moisture: The Coastal Problem
If you live near the coast, salt air is your enemy. Moisture ingress can also cause electrical issues. Good quality panels with good sealing can help mitigate these risks.
Potential-Induced Degradation (PID) Effect: The Silent Efficiency Thief
The Potential-Induced Degradation (PID) effect is a sneaky culprit that can quietly sap the efficiency of your solar system. PID happens when high voltages cause leakage currents between the ground and the solar cells, leading to a drop in power output. This issue is particularly troublesome in solar systems with high voltage strings, as it can significantly cut down on the energy your panels produce.
To keep PID at bay, it’s crucial to ensure your solar system is designed and installed with top-notch components and proper grounding. Regular maintenance and inspections are your best friends here, helping to spot potential problems before they escalate. If you suspect PID is affecting your solar system, don’t hesitate to call in an accredited solar installer. They can diagnose the issue and get your system back to peak performance.
Low Power Output: When Panels Underperform
Low power output is a common headache for solar system owners, leading to less energy production and higher electricity bills. Several factors can cause your solar panels to underperform, including:
- Dirty or damaged solar panels
- Poor solar panel orientation or tilt
- Shading from trees or buildings
- Faulty solar inverters or wiring
- High grid voltage issues
To tackle low power output, start by giving your solar panels a good once-over. Check for dirt, damage, or shading that might be blocking the sun. Next, take a look at your solar inverter for any error codes or warning messages. Make sure your solar array is properly connected to the grid and that your panels are positioned to catch the most sunlight.
If you’re scratching your head trying to figure out the problem, it’s time to call in Class A Energy Solutions. A qualified solar installer or electrician can help diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your solar system is running smoothly and efficiently.
Spotting Solar System Performance Issues
You don’t need a PhD in electrical engineering to keep an eye on your solar system’s health. Here’s how:
- Check your energy production regularly. Most modern systems have apps or online portals to make this easy.
- Compare your electricity bills before and after installation. If you’re not seeing the savings you were expecting, it might be time for a service. Keep in mind that the electricity bill can provide some insight, but it is not a reliable indicator of the solar system’s health and may fluctuate due to various factors, particularly during colder months when heating demands rise.
- Visual inspections can pick up obvious issues like physical damage or discolouration.
Maintenance: A Little Love Goes a Long Way
Prevention is better than cure and that’s especially true for solar panels. Here’s how to keep your system running:
- Clean your panels occasionally. In most areas rain does a good job, but a gentle wash with water and a soft brush can help in drier areas.
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent shading and leaf litter.
- Get a professional inspection every few years to catch any developing issues. Contact your solar installers if any issues arise with the inverter to ensure optimal system performance.
Additionally, it is important to contact a solar company for professional maintenance and to make formal requests to the local grid network operator if needed.
When to Call in the Experts
A bit of DIY maintenance is great but some problems require expert hands. Monitoring system performance is crucial to identify issues early. Call our team when:
- You notice a big drop in energy production
- There’s physical damage to panels or wiring
- Your inverter is displaying error messages or acting funny
- You’re due for a professional inspection (every 2-5 years is a good rule of thumb)
Weather Woes: Australian Climate Issues
Our sunburnt country throws some special challenges at solar power panels:
Heat: High temperatures can actually reduce panel efficiency. Good air flow behind the panels can help with this.
Storms and Hail: Good quality panels can withstand most hail storms but severe weather can still cause damage. After a big storm it’s worth doing a visual check of your system.
Bushfires: Smoke and ash from bushfires can reduce solar output. A good clean after the danger has passed will help get your system back to normal.
Weather conditions can significantly impact the power generated by solar panels, with factors like water ingress potentially leading to severe electrical issues.
Warranties and Insurance: Your Solar Safety Net
Know your warranty. Most panels have:
1. Product warranty (10-12 years) for defects
2. Performance warranty (25 years) for a certain level of output over time
You might want to add your solar system to your home insurance policy for extra peace of mind.
Future-proof your solar investment
The solar industry is always changing. Watch out for:
– More efficient panel tech
– Better energy storage
– Smart home integration for energy optimisation
Upgrading parts of your system over time can help you stay ahead of the curve without the big cost.
Key Takeaways
– A bit of maintenance can prevent many solar panel problems.
– Monitor your system to catch issues early.
– Get a professional inspection every few years.
– Know your warranty and consider insurance.
– Get ahead of the curve.
Solar is great for Australian homes and with a little knowledge and TLC your system will be humming along for years to come.