How To Fix a Broken Solar Panel

Solar panels are a big investment and it’s important to care for them properly to ensure you get your money’s worth. That said, even with the best care, homeowners who have switched to solar will be faced with a need for repairs. Read on to find out what you should do when this time comes, what options you have for fixing a broken solar panel, and how to reduce the frequency of this being an issue.

• Why you shouldn’t DIY your solar panel repairs
• The importance of solar panel warranties
• Signs a solar panel is broken beyond repair
• How to avoid solar panel repairs

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Solar Panel Repairs

Fixing broken solar panels may seem like the kind of home maintenance you can learn to do on your own, but it’s always best to trust these repairs with a licensed electrician. Solar panels are part of a high-voltage electrical system and are often connected to the grid. This makes repair work dangerous for someone without training. You likely don’t have the proper safety equipment and sometimes, there are utility and permitting approvals that must be navigated.

Attempting a DIY repair can also void any warranties you have or possibly violate your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you make a mistake, you’re left with a panel that still doesn’t work and no options to get it replaced or fixed without paying out of pocket. Having a professional handle your broken solar panel eliminates these issues and ensures minimal delays to get the affected panel working efficiently again.

The Importance of Solar Panel Warranties

Solar panel warranties offer a guarantee that your investment will reach its full potential. Warranties often cover workmanship and production, providing relief if any damage occurs and giving you peace of mind that your system will provide at least the set minimum amount of energy for the warranty period. If your panels are covered, taking advantage of the warranty will get your panels repaired by an expert and guarantee they meet the production standards you expect.

At Photon Brothers, we have a dedicated team of solar panel repair technicians standing by. Should you need repairs, we’re just a phone call away.

Signs a Solar Panel Is Broken Beyond Repair

Most high-quality solar panels last 25 to 30 years, so panels that have been in service longer than that are better off being replaced rather than repaired. Even if your panels are newer, however, there are some signs that could indicate replacement is necessary. If the output of an individual panel has gone down significantly, it could be a sign it’s wearing out. Microcracks on the solar cells, hidden from the naked eye, can be caused by strong winds or impacts from debris. If you can see damage, such as cracked glass or a dented frame, protection for the solar cells has been compromised and a replacement is imminent. Signs of moisture within the panel, shown as discoloration referred to as ​“snail trails”, could be evidence that your back sheet has been cracked or that your solar cells have fractured. Contacting a solar professional to assess the damage will help you decide if repairs are possible or if a replacement is the best option.

Photon Brothers proudly offers our customers a 25-year production guarantee. Even after 25 years, we guarantee your panels will still perform at a minimum of 90% efficiency, or we’ll make it right.

How to Avoid Solar Panel Repairs

Cutting corners to save money on your solar system will put you on a fast track to needing repairs, so it’s important to start off on the right foundation. This will save you money in the long run and allow you peace of mind that your solar panels won’t experience an early retirement.

Invest in Quality Panels

Choosing to spend the extra money for premium solar panels might feel a little painful to your budget initially, but the move will pay for itself over time. High-quality solar panels are often rated better on efficiency, meaning they get more energy out of the same sun exposure. These panels will also have the benefit of stronger research and development from the manufacturer, ensuring their performance, and are often built using robotics to maintain consistency in production. The use of high-grade silicon in their construction extends the life span of the panels significantly. When it comes to the brand of solar panels you choose, you get what you pay for, so paying more upfront will drastically reduce the amount you need to pay for repairs and replacements later.

Work with Trustworthy Installers

Installing a solar panel system is a dangerous job that requires expert knowledge and experience. A licensed electrician trained in solar panel installation can have the tools and training to handle the precision measurements and connections necessary to maximize the efficiency of your panels. Even minor errors in installation can result in costly repairs later by increasing the opportunity for damage. Solar panels must be placed correctly to ensure you get the most production while being mindful of threats from outdoor debris, and an expert can steer you toward the brand of solar panels that work best for your situation during the estimate process.

Additionally, if you start the process off right with professionals like the team at Photon Brothers, you have an established relationship for any future questions or concerns about your system. Your solar panels will also have the benefit of being covered by installation warranties and homeowner’s insurance policies, so if you ever do find yourself in need of repairs, they’ll likely be covered and require little to no out-of-pocket expense for you.