Solar panel repair, though, is something all businesses and homeowners should be aware of. Photovoltaic (PV) technology is designed to be durable and withstand heavy use, power surges, and even falling hail. However, it is still possible for these panels to be damaged, whether it’s due to a lightning strike, mechanical failure, or a manufacturing defect. That’s why it’s important to be aware of solar panel repair and the services that are available if you experience any damage.
A plethora of potential issues may arise with your PV panels over the quarter-century of their guaranteed existence. Unfortunately, a surprising number of these issues are actually not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Repairing Your Solar Panel
Fixing or replacing solar panels is a job for a skilled technician. The process can involve anything from inspecting the panels for damage to diagnosing and repairing faulty wiring or other components. In addition, technicians may need to reset the system to ensure it’s running properly and efficiently. In some cases, the panels may need to be removed and reinstalled.
No matter what type of repair is required, it’s essential that a qualified technician carries out the work. That’s why it’s important to research local technicians and find one with the experience and expertise necessary to repair your system. They may also have access to specialized tools and parts needed to repair and replace solar panels.
Ever wondered why your solar PV system might be malfunctioning? There are a few common causes that can lead to your system not performing as expected. It is important to understand the reasons behind the issue and take the necessary steps to fix it.
Troubleshooting Common Solar System Problems
Solar panels are designed to perform without any moving parts, and as such, they don’t experience a lot of wear and tear. The durability of solar panels is such that manufacturers can provide their modules with a 25-year warranty. However, that warranty does not extend to certain factors that can have an adverse effect on the performance of a solar installation such as:
Poor installation: Improperly installed solar modules can lead to a lower power output and decreased system efficiency.
Age: Even under the best conditions, solar panels can begin to lose efficiency with age.
Dust and dirt: If your solar panels become dirty or covered in dust, it can reduce their efficiency and output. Cleaning your modules regularly is necessary to maintain their performance.
Temperature: High temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar cells. It is important to keep your solar installation in a cool environment.
Sunlight exposure: If your modules are not receiving enough direct sunlight, their performance and output can suffer.
Shade: If your solar array experiences significant shade, it can also reduce its efficiency.
Damage: Physical damage to your modules can cause a decrease in output and efficiency.
The components that make up the system come with warranties, with some being longer and others shorter. These warranties provide assurance that the system will perform as required. They also provide protection in the event of failure or malfunction. The length of the warranties will vary depending on the component, with some offering longer coverage and others offering shorter coverage. Regardless of the length, the warranties provide peace of mind that the system will function as expected.
Batteries are typically safeguarded for up to 10 years, while inverters are usually backed up for around 12 years. This long term protection means that you can rest assured that your equipment is covered for the long haul. Whether you’re using your battery to store energy or your inverter to convert it, having a reliable warranty in place ensures that you won’t be left in the dark.
With a 5-10 year warranty, you can be sure that your battery or inverter will be working properly for many years to come. This kind of protection allows you to focus on other aspects of your energy system, safe in the knowledge that your equipment is taken care of. Furthermore, you can have the peace of mind that comes with a long-term warranty, knowing that you don’t have to worry about replacing any parts or components in the near future.
Other components, like wires, switches, nuts, and bolts, which can be prone to malfunction and are not usually covered by warranties, are also a factor. Even if the solar panel’s function as expected, it is likely that a technician will be needed to repair or replace these items at some point as they reach the conclusion of their lifespan.
Is It Possible To Repair Damaged Solar Panels?
Yes, there are indeed solar appliance repair companies that offer their services for fixing a variety of PV components, including damaged modules. It is worth noting, though, that there are a few points to bear in mind:
• Not all solar equipment repair service providers offer removal and reinstallation services, so you’ll need to look for a technician who can assist you with these measures. Finding a specialist to handle these steps is essential if you want to replace or repair your solar appliances. It’s best to do your research and find a technician who is knowledgeable and experienced in the solar appliance repair industry.
Make sure to ask questions and get recommendations from friends and family to ensure you’re making the right choice. Once you’ve found the right technician, they can help you with the removal and reinstallation of your solar appliances. With their expertise and knowledge, they can provide you with a hassle-free experience and ensure your solar appliances are installed correctly.
• The majority of cracked solar panels have to be taken to another location for fixing. If you have an arrangement of string inverters, a solitary missing module can significantly hamper the operation of your assembly due to the structure of more established PV systems. This can be quite detrimental and in order to keep your installation running smoothly, it’s essential to have every single panel fully functional. Therefore, if you have any damaged panels, they need to be taken away for mending in order to stop the functioning of your system from being compromised.
• If you are looking to have your modules sent to an outside source, be aware that this could potentially void the warranty from the original manufacturer. However, if you decide to take this route, you may be eligible to receive a newer warranty, albeit a shorter one, from the solar panel repair technician.
Replacing a broken panel can be a chore, but it is essential to ensure the safety of the system and the people connected to it. The weather can cause serious damage to the panels, and if left unattended, it could lead to fires, shocks, or other dangerous consequences. It is recommended that any cracked panel be replaced as soon as possible to avoid such risks.
Swapping out the module eradicates these potential risks, in addition to cutting down the period that your system is offline since a solar panel maintenance technician is able to take away the old module and install a new one in only one trip. By putting in new panels, it usually gives a power surge if the new modules make use of the more modern technology.
Fixing a faulty panel can be done, however, it is not advised. It is much better to replace the panel than to try to repair it. Trying to patch or mend a panel that is already damaged can lead to further damage and cause more expensive repairs. If the panel is severely damaged, it is best to simply purchase a new panel and replace the old one. Doing so will ensure that the job is done right and the panel is safe and secure. Attempting to repair a broken panel can put both your safety and the integrity of the panel at risk.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Solar System?
The cost of a PV system repair can depend on the scale of the issue and which parts need to be checked. It is also worth considering the place where the solar panels have been set up, as ground-mounted panels are simpler to get at, repair, and replace than those which are installed on the rooftop.
The Cost Of Solar Panel Repairs
The cost of removing a solar panel can range from $300 to $500 for each individual module. If you require repair work for a broken panel, you should expect to pay between $200 and $1,000.
The expense of replacing panels is contingent on the current retail cost, but it’s wise to set aside $200 to $250 for each module. It is difficult to accurately predict the labor costs, however, it has been estimated that when labor and hardware costs are combined, it will amount to $2.40 to $3.22 for each installed watt. The majority of residential solar modules are rated between 250 and 400 watts, which would mean the total cost for each panel could range from $600 up to $1,288.
The Cost Of Solar Inverter Repairs
You may have to part with somewhere between $1,200 and $2,500 for a new string inverter and an additional $100 to $250 for a microinverter. Don’t forget to factor in labor costs too, which can range between $250 and $500.
The Cost Of Solar Battery Repairs
The cost of batteries can be quite expensive, ranging from five to seven thousand dollars. Nonetheless, when labor costs are taken into account, the overall price can easily exceed this number, making the expense twice as much.
Who Does Solar Repair?
If the panel is not functioning correctly, it is likely the responsibility of the manufacturer and you should be entitled to a free replacement module. Although, labor costs might be an added expense out of your pocket. The only issue with this is when the original manufacturer is no longer in business, and thus, cannot honor its warranty. This is not always the case, however.
If the problem is due to inferior installation work, then it is most likely the responsibility of the installer to make the necessary repairs. This is particularly true if the installer provides a warranty for their workmanship or guarantees a certain level of performance. By giving such assurances, the installer is implying that they will be held accountable for any issues that may arise from their work. Therefore, if an issue does arise, it is their responsibility to rectify the situation and put things right.
It is advisable to look twice before getting back to that contractor. If they did a bad job the first time, you may be facing more disappointment. Furthermore, the contractor might be more motivated to repair the panel instead of replacing it, thus cutting down their own expenses.
If the original installer remains in business when you require assistance, then your safeguard will be intact. On the other hand, if they are no longer active, then the shield that you have been relying on will cease to exist. It is essential to keep this in mind so that you can make the necessary arrangements ahead of time in the event that the installer is no longer available. Having a plan in place will ensure that your protection is not compromised in the future.
In most instances, the repairs and replacements of your solar panels will have to be paid for out-of-pocket by you, the system owner. But since solar panel repairs are not a DIY job, you will need to call on a licensed technician who can work with the high-voltage electrical equipment, often connected to the grid, as well as obtain the necessary permissions and approvals from the utilities. Furthermore, safety gear and harnesses may be needed when troubleshooting solar panel systems located on the roof.
If you don’t want to jeopardize any warranties you may have, the sensible course of action is to let a professional solar repair technician at ACR Solar handle the task. This is the best way to go, since tackling the repair yourself is a personal, legal, and financial risk. You could void the warranty by opening the hood, and it just isn’t worth it.