Investing in solar panels is a great way to cut down on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. But after they’re installed, how can you be sure they’re doing their job? Whether you’ve noticed changes in your energy use or just want to make sure everything’s running smoothly, here’s how to check if your solar panels are working properly.
If you’re still considering making the switch to solar, learn more about our professional solar installation services.
Monitoring Your Solar Panel Performance
There are a few ways to keep an eye on how well your solar panels are performing, and most of them are pretty straightforward.
Start with your solar inverter. This is the part of your system that converts the energy from your panels into electricity you can use at home. It usually has a light system that tells you if everything’s running smoothly. A green light means things are fine, but if you see a red or flashing light, there might be a fault. Some inverters even show error codes, so if you spot one, check your manual or get in touch with a professional.
Another simple way to spot issues is by looking at your electricity bills. Seasonal changes can cause slight variations in your energy production, but if your bills suddenly spike without explanation, your panels might not be producing enough energy. If that’s the case, you’ll end up using more electricity from the grid, and that’ll show up in your bill.
Many modern systems come with monitoring apps that track your solar output in real-time. These apps can show you if your panels are generating less electricity than usual and even send you alerts if there’s a sudden drop in performance. If you don’t have one of these apps set up, it might be worth checking with your installer; they’re incredibly useful.
What to Look for During a Visual Check
Sometimes, a quick visual check can tell you a lot about how your solar panels are performing. Have a look at your panels every now and then, especially after bad weather.
- Dirt and Debris: Leaves, dust, and even bird droppings can block sunlight. Giving your panels a quick clean can make a noticeable difference.
- Shading: Maybe a tree has grown taller or something new is casting a shadow on your panels. Even small amounts of shade can affect performance.
- Physical Damage: Check for cracks, loose wiring, or signs of water damage. If you spot anything unusual, it’s a good idea to call in a professional.
On a sunny day, you can do a simple test. Turn off all your major appliances and check your solar meter. If it shows that your system is producing energy, that’s a good sign. Compare the performance to similar sunny days in the past—if there’s a noticeable drop, there might be an issue.
Common Solar Panel Issues (and How to Fix Them)
Even with regular checks, you might run into the occasional issue. Here are some common problems and what you can do about them:
1. Dirty Panels
Fix: Give them a rinse with water and a soft brush. If your panels are hard to reach, hiring a professional cleaner is a good idea.
2. Inverter Issues
Fix: Try resetting the inverter—your manual should have instructions. If that doesn’t help, call an expert.
3. Unexpected Shading
Fix: Trim back any overgrown branches or remove new obstructions.
4. Loose Wiring
Fix: If you see exposed or damaged wires, don’t try to fix it yourself. Get a qualified electrician to handle it.
Preventing Problems Before They Start
It’s not just about fixing issues when they come up—regular maintenance can keep your system running smoothly and prevent bigger problems down the line.
- Monthly Monitoring: Keep an eye on your system’s output to catch drops in performance early.
- Seasonal Cleaning: Give your panels a clean at least twice a year, especially after autumn when leaves can build up.
- Annual Check-Up: Even if everything seems fine, a yearly professional inspection can spot hidden issues.
- Keep an Eye on the Inverter: Inverters usually have shorter lifespans than panels, so watch for signs it might need replacing.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
- ✅ Is the inverter light green?
- ✅ Any unexpected spikes in your electricity bill?
- ✅ Is your monitoring app showing a drop in output?
- ✅ Any dirt, shading, or damage on your panels?
- ✅ Does the meter show production on a sunny day?
- ✅ Still stuck? Time to call a professional.
Need a hand with Solar Repairs or Maintenance?
If you’ve spotted an issue or just want peace of mind, our expert team is here to help. We offer professional solar panel repair and maintenance services to keep your system running at peak performance. Get in touch today to schedule an inspection or learn more about how we can support your solar energy needs.
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