Solar energy is a fantastic way to power your home sustainably, but like any technology, it can sometimes have issues. Whether you’re dealing with a drop in energy production, an inverter warning light, or physical damage from a storm, it’s important to know what to do when something isn’t right with your solar system. While many problems can be fixed with simple troubleshooting, others may need professional help. In this post, we’ll walk you through common solar system issues, how you can address them, and when it’s time to call in the experts.  

Solar Issues When You’ve Just Begun! 

How to Check Your System After PTO (Utility’s Permission to Operate)  

Once your solar system has received PTO (Permission to Operate), it’s ready to go, and the inverter’s monitoring application will start tracking your energy production. You can view this data through a website login or by using the mobile app (available for Android or iPhone).  After everything is up and running (which your installer will confirm), it’s a good idea to check in on your system every now and then to make sure it’s performing as expected. You don’t have to do much—just check periodically to get a feel for how your system works and spot any issues early on. Production will naturally vary with the weather and seasons, but over the year, your total energy production (measured in kilowatt hours, or kWh) should align closely with the estimates provided at installation.  In the beginning, you might check your system multiple times a day. After a few weeks, this may taper off to once a day or even once every couple of weeks. Still, it’s always a good idea to stay updated. If you notice any discrepancies, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. 

Common Solar Issues and Troubleshooting After PTO 

Your Solar System Isn’t Producing Power 

If your solar system isn’t generating power as expected, there are a few things you can check: 

  • Dirty Panels: Dust, debris, or bird droppings can block sunlight. In New England, the next rain shower often takes care of this, so washing is usually unnecessary. 
  • Shading: Trees, buildings, or new obstacles may be casting shadows on your panels, reducing their efficiency. If you notice shading, trimming trees or removing obstructions could help. 
  • System Shutdown: Sometimes, the inverter may shut down due to a technical issue. A simple reset may get things back on track. 

 Inverter Warning Lights 

Your inverter is responsible for converting solar energy from DC to AC. If it’s showing a warning light or error message, it could be due to: 

  • Overheating: Make sure the inverter isn’t in direct sunlight and is properly ventilated. 
  • Wiring Issues: Faulty wiring can interrupt the flow of energy. 
  • Software Glitches: Occasionally, a software issue may pop up, but it can often be resolved with a reset. 

 High Electricity Bills 

If your electric bill is unexpectedly high, it could mean your solar system isn’t working at its best. This might be due to weather, system configuration, or an underlying issue. However, keep in mind that your solar production will fluctuate throughout the year. Also, if you’ve been using more electricity or if utility rates have gone up, it could explain the higher bills. When you have solar, it’s easy to become more relaxed about turning off lights and appliances, so this is worth considering. 

Physical Damage 

Severe weather like storms, high winds, or falling debris can sometimes cause physical damage to your solar panels. If you spot cracks or punctures, it’s important to address it quickly, as damage can lower your system’s efficiency and even create safety concerns. 

When to Call for Help with Your Solar System 

Even with the best monitoring tools and regular check-ins, some issues require a professional’s attention. If any of the following apply to your system, it’s time to give us a call: 

Electrical Safety Concerns 

If you notice unusual smells, smoke, sparks, or if your system has caused a circuit breaker to trip multiple times, it’s important not to try to fix it yourself. Let it shut down if needed. Electrical issues can be dangerous, and the best course of action is to get professional help immediately. The potential risk is simply not worth ignoring. 

Damage to Panels or Wiring 

If your panels are physically damaged (for example, from a storm or falling debris), or if you see visible wiring issues, it’s critical to get those fixed as soon as possible. Damaged panels or wiring can not only reduce your system’s efficiency, but they can also pose a safety hazard. 

Consistently Low Energy Production 

If your system has been underperforming for an extended period—despite favorable weather and seasons—it’s time to call in the experts. A technician can help diagnose the issue and recommend the right course of action. 

Inverter Malfunctions

If your inverter isn’t working properly and basic troubleshooting (like resetting the system) hasn’t helped, it’s time to bring in a professional. Inverter problems usually require repair or replacement, and an expert can get things back up and running. 

 

What to Expect When You Reach Out for Help

At New England Clean Energy, we take pride in offering excellent customer service. We’re here to assist not just our customers, but solar owners with all kinds of installations. If you need help, here’s what you can expect: 

  • Fast Response: We aim to respond within one to two business days, especially if we installed your system. Often, we can troubleshoot remotely before reaching out to you, as many issues can be identified and even fixed online. 
  • Warranties: If the issue is a result of an installation error, it’s covered by our 10-year workmanship warranty. For equipment issues, the manufacturer’s warranty should cover most (if not all) repair or replacement costs, especially if the problem occurs early in the lifespan of the equipment. 
  • No Truck Roll Fees for Common Issues: Since we have access to the same monitoring tools you do; we can often spot and resolve many issues remotely. This can save you both time and the cost of sending a technician. 

Peace of Mind with Your Solar System 

Solar energy systems are designed to last, and most systems continue running efficiently for years. Since our founding in 2006, New England Clean Energy has installed thousands of systems, and most of those systems are still operating smoothly. We expect the same long-lasting performance from the systems we’re installing today. 

While solar systems are reliable, occasional issues can still arise. By regularly monitoring your system, you can catch potential problems early. If something goes wrong—whether it’s a drop in performance, a warning light, or physical damage—remember that professional help is just a call or email away. 

At New England Clean Energy, we offer comprehensive solar repair and maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly. Even if we didn’t install your system, we’re here to help. (The only exception is if we don’t have experience with your equipment.) Whether it’s troubleshooting remotely or sending a technician to your home, we’re committed to providing prompt, reliable service so you can continue enjoying the benefits of solar energy. 

Do you think your system needs service? Get a service quote here 

 

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