How To Tell If Your Solar PV System Needs A Solar System Inspection And Test
If you're wondering whether your solar system needs repairs, here are some signs to look out for:
1. Decreased Energy Production: If you notice a sudden decrease in the amount of solar energy your system is producing, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Your solar panels may not be working as efficiently as they should be or there could be a problem with the wiring.
2. Physical Damage:
Damage to your solar panels can cause them to produce less energy or stop working altogether.
Keep an eye out for cracks, chips, or other signs of physical damage.
Cracks: Cracks on the surface of the solar panel can cause a drop in energy production and efficiency. They can also allow moisture to enter the panel, which can lead to corrosion and further damage.
Chips: If there are any chips or dents on the surface of the solar panel, it can cause micro-cracks that can affect the performance of the panel.
Discolouration: Discoloration on the surface of the panel can be an indication of overheating or moisture damage.
Warping: Warping of the panel can cause the cells to shift, leading to a drop in energy production.
Scratches: Scratches on the surface of the solar panel can reduce the amount of sunlight it can absorb and convert into energy.
If you notice any of these signs of physical damage on your solar panels, it's crucial to have them inspected and repaired by a professional.
Ignoring the damage can lead to further degradation of the panel's performance and ultimately result in costly repairs or replacement.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your solar panels can help ensure they operate at their optimal level and produce clean energy for years to come.
3. Inverter Problems: The inverter is an important component of your solar system that converts the DC electricity produced by your panels into AC electricity that can be used in your home. If the inverter is malfunctioning, it could cause issues with your system's performance.
Check the inverter display:
Most inverters have an LCD screen that displays important information about your system's performance, including the amount of energy produced, the current voltage, and any error messages.
Check the display to see if there are any error messages or warnings.
Solar inverter testing may be required to determine if the solar inverter can be repaired or if the error code is present due to the failure of another component within your solar PV system.
4. Electrical Issues: If you're experiencing electrical issues in your home, it could be a sign that there's a problem with your solar system.
For example, you may notice flickering lights, outlets that don't work, or circuit breakers that keep tripping. A ground fault is a type of electrical fault that occurs when electrical current flows through an unintended path to the ground.
In the context of solar power systems, ground faults can occur when there is a fault or damage in the wiring or equipment, which can cause electricity to flow through the ground rather than the intended path.
5. Monitoring System Alerts: Most solar systems come with a monitoring system that alerts you to any issues with your system's performance. If you receive an alert, it's important to investigate the issue to determine if repairs are needed.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a qualified solar technician to assess the situation and determine if repairs are necessary.
Prompt attention to these issues can help prevent more serious problems down the line.
At Pica Electrical we provide an entire solar system inspection, We will test all the components of your solar system which include the solar panels on the roof, solar cabling, DC isolators, solar inverter and switchboard connections.
Typically, service inspections should be completed at least once every 3 years, but the frequency of inspections may depend on several factors, such as the age and condition of your solar panels, the inverter, and other components.
In general, it's a good idea to schedule a professional service inspection whenever you notice any issues with your solar power system, such as a drop in energy production, unusual sounds, or error messages on the inverter display.
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to answer any questions you may have and provide you with an obligation-free quote for solar system inspection and testing.
Contact us at 1300 653 556 or fill out the simple form on the following page
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