4 Signs Your Solar Panels Aren’t Functioning Properly

1. Electric Bill Increasing

If you notice a sudden increase in your electric bill or your electric bills never decrease after installation, it could be a sign that your solar panels aren’t functioning properly. While you can expect your electric bill to fluctuate month to month, over time, you should notice a decrease in your electric bill thanks to your solar panels. So, if you see a costly increase, it’s best to check out the entire panel system.

Also, if you never see a decrease in your electric bills, that’s also a good sign the panels were not initially installed properly. Carefully monitoring your electric bills is a great way to catch issues early and save money in the long run. If you’re concerned, contact your solar installation company to come and check things out.

2. Inverter Displaying a Red or Orange Light

If your solar panel system’s inverter is displaying a red or orange light—don’t ignore it. These lights alert you that there is an issue somewhere in your panel system. The inverter is responsible for converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which you can then use in your home. A red or orange light on the inverter indicates there is an issue within the system, such as with the panels, the wiring or the inverter unit.

Ignoring the warning sign could lead to more costly issues in your system’s performance. That means not only could you end up paying more for your monthly electric bill, but it could also cost you more in repairs. Again, contact your solar company if you see this red light.

3. The Weather and Production Don’t Add Up

Pay extra attention to the weather reports in your area because keeping an eye on the weather can tell you a lot about your solar panel’s performance. On sunny days with clear skies, you should have optimal energy production because the panels can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity. However, if you notice a consistent pattern of low energy production on sunny days, it’s a good indication that your solar panels are not working effectively.

Cloudy or overcast days and extreme weather events like storms or heavy snowfall can disrupt energy production. You will likely notice reduced energy output, but usually not a complete reduction. Monitoring your solar panel system’s performance during different weather conditions can help you identify any potential issues.

4. The Solar Meter Isn’t Increasing

Your solar meter should provide alerts or readings that let you know if your panels aren’t functioning as they should. Check the solar meter’s kilowatt hours totals, which measure the energy your solar panels produce. If the total kilowatt hours go up, the panels are working. However, if the number stays the same, decreases or only slightly rises, there may be an issue. You should also be able to compare the solar meter readings to previous periods. Be sure to regularly monitor your solar meter to detect any increases or decreases in energy production.

If you notice something is wrong, the answer could be a simple repair, but there are cases when it might mean panel replacement. There are several factors to weigh before deciding whether or not it’s time to replace your solar panels.

Age

Traditionally, solar panels have a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years; after this time, they become less efficient. If your panels are approaching or have surpassed this timeframe, it may be worth exploring if upgrading is right for your system.

Performance

If your monthly electric bill slowly climbs up each month or you notice a significant drop in energy production despite properly taking care of the entire system, you may want to replace the solar panels. Again, be sure to speak with your installation company first, as there is often an easier fix.

Physical Damage

If your panels have cracks, dents or broken parts, it’s time to either repair or replace these panels so that your system can work to its full potential. Again, a quality solar company can help make the call here and see if any damage is covered under your warranty.

Technological Advancements

The recent growth in the solar industry has led to newer features, more efficient and cost-effective panels and technological advancements that older systems just don’t have. If your current solar panel system is an older model, an upgrade may give you better results.

• Take a hard look at your panels: The first step in troubleshooting any issues with your solar panels is to inspect each panel. Check if any dirt or debris is caught on the panel or if any of the panels are cracked, dislodged or have broken pieces.
• Check the surrounding area: Are there any branches that may be blocking sunlight from reaching the panels? Next, examine the inverter for error messages or warning lights.
• Call the experts: If you’re unable to pinpoint the problem on your own, it’s time to  reach out to a solar panel professional. Even if you find a problem on your own, it’s still wise to reach out, as attempting to fix the problem yourself could void your warranty or make things worse.