However, panels can and do fail prematurely for a variety of reasons. The most common cause of solar panel failure is exposure to the elements. Extreme weather conditions, such as hail or wind storms, can damage panels and lead to premature failure. Another common cause of solar panel failure is manufacturing defects.
Nearly seven in 10 owners had had no problems with their solar panels in our survey of over 2,000 owners.* The most common – and most serious – problem owners face is with the inverter. In some cases inverter problems mean you don't get any usable renewable electricity. It can also be a pricey problem to fix.
If the panel operates under low voltage, it is unable to supply the required electricity, leading it to function ineffectively or fail entirely. From my experience, zero power output is usually the result of defective connectors, faulty inverters, or shading over the solar panels. Identifying a failing solar panel isn’t rocket science.
Thus, solar power professionals need to be knowledgeable about common solar panel problems to better service solar clients and prevent underperforming solar assets. Regular maintenance and performance modeling can help prevent revenue loss for solar system owners through early detection and corrective action.
Faulty Electrical Wiring If your electrical wiring on the roof is faulty or old, it can disrupt the efficiency of your solar panels by affecting electricity production. This happens because, over time, the wiring can develop problems like loose connections, corrosion, and oxidation. Even pests like rats can damage the wiring by chewing on it.
Absolutely, regular maintenance and monitoring can help avoid failures. For a detailed breakdown, revisit the ‘Preventing Future Solar Panel Failures’ section. Remember, having a faulty solar panel is not the end of your solar energy journey. It’s merely a hiccup that, with the right set of actions, can be effortlessly managed.