Common solar panel problems … At this point, I assume you know the definition and what solar panel is all about. But if you are still ignorant of it, I advise you look it up here. However, if you know the basics of it, you can keep scrolling down with smile on your face. Because, this article will unleash all the common challenges that could be the reason why your solar panel is not giving the expected output.
Solar panel is a fragile and delicate device. So, there could be so many reasons why it is not giving out the expected output or its not generating electricity. At several occasion, people do always complain about how their solar panel is not delivering what they expected from it. And I think it will be nice if I give out this article as a solution to everyone with similar challenge.
So, if you find your self in such situation and you think you have lost it all. Don’t loose hope because this post has answers to all your challenges and you just need to keep reeding to achieve the best out of it.
Here is the list of all that could cause the present problem you are experiencing on your solar panels.
7 COMMON SOLAR PANEL PROBLEMS | WHAT CAUSES SOLAR PANELS NOT TO WORK?
- Shading
- Dirt and Debris
- Wrong connection
- Damaged Panels
- Mismatched panels
- Electrical issues
- Weather condition
COMMON SOLAR PANEL PROBLEMS | WHAT CAUSES SOLAR PANELS NOT TO WORK?
SHADING:
Solar panels function at maximum in a clear environment. Shading is a treat to its functionality and any little shade covering any part of your solar panels. This can affect its overall output.
Besides, this is the more reason why big solar plants are installed in a desert area. Thus, always find a way to clear any obstacle that cast shadow to your solar panel at all time.
DIRT AND DEBRIS:
Dirt and debris affect solar panels too. Solar cells are made of silicon and solar panels are made of these solar cells. Silicon tends to generate energy when exposed to sun light.
However, dirt or debris on solar panel surface can reduce its overall efficiency. As well it can possibly lead to the poor output you are facing now. As a result, it is wise to always clean your solar panels surface with clean and wet rag. You can check out here to know more on how to clean dirt on solar panels.
WRONG CONNECTION:
Always keep in mind series and parallel connections any time you are dealing with solar panel system. Because, knowing the principle behind these two connection patterns will always safe you.
Imagine choosing a parallel connection when you need high voltage system or choosing series connection when you need high current system. Just tell yourself the truth, how do you expect the system to function as you desired with this kind of connection.
But I got your back and you can check here if you are yet to get familiar with series, parallel and hybrid connections for solar panel.
Now that you understand these three types of connection in solar system, you can now check to confirm if your solar panels are well connected. Also, confirm if all connection is firm and intact.
DAMAGED PANELS:
Solar panel array can be connected either in series or parallel format. The implication of having any damaged panel in the system differs and it depend on whether the panels are in series or parallel connection.
If series connected, the damaged panel will make the system to deliver zero power output while in a parallel circuit, the system will generate less power compared to the expected value. The reason behind this principle will soon be addressed on this site and I advise you check back always for the latest.
MISMATCHED PANELS:
If solar panels differ in some specifications like, power, voltage and current. It tends to function abnormally; thus, you should ensure all the solar panels in your panel array has the same value on the above specifications.
ELECTRICAL ISSUES:
In the absence of the above issues, it is advisable to consider tailoring your troubleshooting down to electrical fault. This could be to check the circuit breaker at the output of you panel array. A tripped circuit breaker can go a long way to deactivating the solar panel output. And it can only take a professional to detect and correct this faulty.
WHEATHER CONDITION:
In as much as solar panels generate power output in a cloudy weather. But this output is less when compared with the output in a sunny weather. Poor weather can be the reason your solar panels are generating this less power output.
SUMMARY | COMMON SOLAR PANEL PROBLEMS
In conclusion, if you have checked all these likely problems and still experiencing the challenge. Its time you consult a professional solar panel installer. This is to perform a thorough inspection and detect what exactly could be the problem.
If you disagree and you think I missed something, please let me know in the comments section below and I will see you in the next article. Also, If you are new to this blog mandexsolar. This is a solar system blog that solves all solar system installation related challenges and questions by writing.
Therefore, I advice you to bookmark this page for easy access any time you want to verify any any solar system related challenges.
