Solar Panel Repair: What to Do When Your System Acts Up

Thursday, May 15th, 2025

Solar panels are built tough, but they’re not invincible. Even the best systems can develop issues after years in the sun, rain, and occasional hailstorms. The good news? Many problems have simple fixes—if you catch them early.

This guide walks you through:

• How to spot trouble before it costs you money
• What you can safely check yourself
• When to call a pro for solar panel repair

First Warning Signs: Is Your Solar System Sick?

Your panels won’t send you a text when something’s wrong. Here’s how to tell they need attention:

1. Your Electric Bill Creeps Up

If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill spikes, your panels might be underproducing. Check your inverter’s monitoring app (most systems have one) for a sudden drop in kWh output.

1. Visible Damage to Panels

Look for:

• Cracks or chips in the glass
• Discolored spots (could mean cell damage)
• Water stains inside the panel (indicates seal failure)

Pro Tip: Use binoculars to inspect roof panels from the ground.

1. Your Inverter Throws a Tantrum

Flashing lights or error codes on your inverter (the box that converts solar power to usable electricity) often mean:

• Wiring issues
• Overheating
• Component failure

Don’t ignore these—they won’t fix themselves.

1. Strange Noises or Smells

• Buzzing/humming from the inverter = bad news
• Burnt plastic smell = electrical fault (turn off the system and call a pro immediately)

What You Can Fix Yourself (Safety First!)

Warning: Never touch wiring or climb on the roof unless trained. When in doubt, call a solar panel repair pro.

1. Reset Your Inverter

Sometimes, it just needs a reboot:

• Turn off the AC/DC disconnect switches (check your manual)
• Wait 5 minutes
• Turn back on

Works for about 30% of “mystery” issues.

1. Clear Debris

• Bird droppings (block sunlight dramatically)
• Leaves or pine needles (can cause hot spots)
• Pollen/dust buildup (reduces efficiency by 5-15%)

How to clean safely:

• Use a garden hose (no pressure washers!)
• Soft brush for stuck-on grime
• Early morning or evening (never on hot panels)

1. Check for New Shading

• Overgrown tree branches?
• Are new roof vents or satellite dishes casting shadows?
• Even small shadows can crash production on entire panel strings.

When to Call a Solar Panel Repair Pro

Some problems are like heart surgery—best left to experts:

• Physical panel damage (cracks, water intrusion)
• Inverter failure (error codes that won’t reset)
• Burning smells or scorched wires
• Wildlife damage (squirrels love chewing cables)
• Roof leaks near the mounts
• Warranty-covered issues (DIY fixes often void coverage)

Fun Fact: Many solar warranties require annual professional inspections to stay valid. Skipping them could cost you thousands later.

Finding a Reliable Repair Service

Not all solar companies fix what they didn’t install. Look for:

• Licensed electricians with solar experience
• Good reviews (check Yelp/Google)
• Free diagnostics (many offer this)
• Warranty on their work (at least 1 year)

Red Flags:

• High-pressure sales for full system replacements
• No physical office or local technicians
• Vague answers about licensing

What Repairs Cost

Tip: Always get multiple quotes. Prices vary wildly.

Keep Your Solar Investment Healthy

1. Check your monitoring app weekly (look for dips)
2. Do visual inspections quarterly (from the ground)
3. Schedule professional maintenance every 2-3 years

Solar panels are like cars—a little care prevents big repair bills. Now you know when to grab a hose and when to call the solar ER.