Troubleshooting Solar: Common Issues and How to Address Them

March 6th, 2025

Making the switch to solar power is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it's not without its occasional challenges. As with any complex energy system, solar panels can sometimes encounter issues that can impact their performance and efficiency. At Bracket, we believe that equipping our customers with the knowledge to identify and resolve these problems is essential for maximizing the long-term benefits of their solar investment.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most common solar panel issues homeowners may face and provide practical tips for troubleshooting and addressing them.

Decreased Energy Production

One of the most common problems solar homeowners encounter is a noticeable drop in their system's energy output. There are several potential causes for this:

1. Shading: Obstructions like trees, buildings, or even chimney smoke can cast shadows on your solar panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight. Regularly inspect your panels for any new sources of shading and consider trimming back any vegetation that may be encroaching.

   
   

2. Soiling: Dust, dirt, and debris buildup on the surface of your solar panels can impede their efficiency. Schedule regular cleaning (at least twice a year) to keep your panels performing at their best.

   
   

3. Equipment Failure: Issues with your inverter, wiring, or other system components can also lead to decreased energy production. If you notice a significant and persistent drop in output, contact your solar installer to diagnose and address the problem.

   
   

   

   
   

System Not Producing Any Power

In more severe cases, your solar energy system may stop generating power altogether. This could be due to:

1. Grid Outage: First, check if the issue is related to a broader power outage in your area. If the grid is down, your solar system may be designed to automatically shut off to prevent backfeeding.

   
   

2. Inverter Malfunction: Your inverter is the critical component that converts the direct current (DC) generated by your solar panels into the alternating current (AC) used by your home. If the inverter fails, your system will be unable to produce any power.

   
   

3. Tripped Circuit Breakers: Ensure that all circuit breakers in your solar system are in the "on" position and have not been tripped. A tripped breaker can interrupt the flow of electricity and prevent your system from generating power.

   
   

Unexpectedly High Energy Bills

Even with a solar energy system in place, you may still find that your energy bills remain higher than expected. This could be due to:

1. System Sizing: If your solar system was not properly sized to meet your home's energy needs, it may not be generating enough power to offset your full electricity consumption.

   
   

2. Increased Energy Usage: Changes in your household's energy usage patterns, such as the addition of new high-power appliances or devices, could be outpacing your system's production capabilities.

   
   

   

   
   

By understanding these common solar issues and the steps to address them, you'll be better equipped to maintain the optimal performance of your renewable energy system. Remember, the team at Bracket is always here to provide expert guidance and support should you encounter any challenges along the way.

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive solar monitoring and maintenance services, and let us help you maximize the long-term benefits of your solar investment.