Do you have problems with your solar panels?

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.

What causes damage to solar panels?

Here, we break down the most common causes of damage as well as the steps you can take to extend your solar panels’ lifespan. Even the smallest debris, like twigs, leaves, or dirt, can cause small micro-scratches on your solar panels. The scratches from fallen debris can dramatically lower your panels’ energy output.

Do solar panels damage your roof?

While solar panels themselves will not inherently damage your roof, an improper installation can lead to problems down the line. It is crucial to ensure that the installation is done correctly by a professional, or with thorough research and proper planning if you choose to do it yourself.

Why do solar panels lose power?

PID is essentially a voltage leak from the cells to the frame of the solar panel resulting in reduced power output. Unfortunately, the problem may not be initially noticeable, but over time, it usually becomes progressively worse, resulting in up to 20% or more power loss.

What happens if a solar panel is broken?

If an understrength glass is broken, not only the light absorbed by the panel will diminish, foreign elements such as water and dust can go under the glass to shade solar cells and impact energy output. Broken glass makes solar panels more prone to future weather damages.

Can solar panels be damaged during installation?

In addition to these reasons, solar panels can sometimes be damaged during transportation or mishandled during installation, which may not become apparent until several years after the installation. Also, in rare cases, the front glass can be shattered due to severe impacts from very large hail and other projectiles.