Is Your Solar System Underperforming? Common Issues & Signs You Need a Solar Repair in SA

It's a fantastic feeling, isn't it? Waking up knowing your home is powered by the South African sun, reducing your reliance on the grid and saving you money. But what happens when that feeling starts to fade? When your electricity bill creeps up, or your monitoring app shows a dip in production? An underperforming solar system can be frustrating, especially when you're not sure what's going on.

From the expert solar installers we work with across South Africa, we've gathered insights into the most common culprits behind a solar system that's not pulling its weight. Understanding these issues can help you identify if your system needs a check-up and what signs to look out for.

Understanding Solar System Performance

A well-functioning solar system should consistently generate a predictable amount of electricity based on factors like panel size, sunlight exposure, and system age. When you notice a significant drop in this output, it's a clear red flag. Many homeowners first spot this when their inverter displays an error code, or their energy monitoring system shows lower-than-usual daily production.

One expert installer recently shared a story about a client in Durban who noticed their energy bill was unexpectedly high. When they checked their monitoring app, they saw a consistent drop in output over a few weeks. It turned out to be a combination of dirty panels and a minor inverter fault that was easily rectified once identified. This highlights the importance of regular monitoring and knowing what to look for.

Common Issues That Lead to Underperformance

Solar systems are robust, but like any technology, they can encounter issues. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can cause your system to underperform:

Dirty Solar Panels

It might sound simple, but dust, grime, bird droppings, and even pollen can significantly reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. These layers act like a shade, preventing sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells effectively.

• Signs: A noticeable drop in energy production, especially after a long dry spell or if you live in an area with high pollution or many trees. The panels might visually appear dirty.
• Expert Insight: Our professionals often see instances where a good clean can boost system output by 10-20%. It’s a bit like driving a car with a dirty windshield – you can still see, but not as clearly.

Inverter Faults

The inverter is the brain of your solar system, converting the DC electricity generated by your panels into AC electricity that your home can use. If the inverter isn't functioning correctly, your entire system's performance will suffer.

• • Signs:No power production: The most obvious sign is a complete lack of energy being generated.
  • Error codes: Most inverters have digital displays that show error codes. These codes are crucial for diagnosing the specific problem. Common codes might indicate grid connection issues, internal faults, or even over-voltage.
  • Unusual noises: While inverters typically hum softly, loud buzzing, clicking, or grinding sounds can indicate a problem.
  • Flickering lights or inconsistent power: If your power seems unstable, it could point to an inverter issue.

• Expert Insight: One of our trusted technicians in Pretoria recently dealt with an inverter that was constantly tripping. After diagnosis, they found a faulty component that was causing the unit to overheat. Replacing this part resolved the issue, preventing potential damage to the entire system. Always check your inverter’s display first – those error codes are your first clue!

Wiring and Connection Issues

Loose connections, damaged wiring, or corroded terminals can disrupt the flow of electricity from your panels to your inverter and into your home.

• Signs: Intermittent power production, partial system outages (where some panels are working but others aren't), or visual signs of damaged cables (fraying, chew marks from rodents, discolouration).
• Expert Insight: "You'd be surprised how often a critter decides a solar cable is a tasty snack," remarked one Cape Town installer. "Or sometimes, just the constant expansion and contraction from temperature changes can loosen a connection over years. A thorough inspection of all wiring is always part of our diagnostic process."

Panel Damage

While solar panels are built to withstand harsh weather, they can still be damaged by hail, falling branches, or even manufacturing defects.

• Signs: Visible cracks on the glass surface, discolouration (scorched marks or "snail trails"), delamination (where the layers of the panel separate), or hot spots (areas on the panel that are significantly hotter than the rest).
• Expert Insight: A solar panel expert recounted a case where a severe hailstorm in Johannesburg led to micro-cracks on several panels. These weren't immediately visible to the homeowner but caused a noticeable dip in performance over time as water ingress worsened the damage. Regular visual inspections are vital.

Shading Issues

Even partial shading on a single panel can drastically reduce the output of an entire string of panels, especially in older systems without optimisers or micro-inverters.

• Signs: Lower power output during specific times of the day, particularly if new trees have grown, or a new structure has been built nearby.
• Expert Insight: "Sometimes clients forget how much trees grow in a year," an experienced installer shared. "We once had a system underperforming, and it turned out a newly planted tree had just reached a height where its branches shaded a key panel for a few hours each afternoon. A quick trim was all that was needed."

Battery Issues (for systems with storage)

If you have a battery storage system, issues with the battery itself can affect your overall energy independence and how much grid power you draw.

• Signs: Your battery isn't charging fully, it's discharging too quickly, or your monitoring system shows inconsistent battery performance.
• Expert Insight: Battery lifespan varies, and improper charging or discharging cycles can reduce their efficiency over time. "Just like your phone battery eventually starts holding less charge, so too can a solar battery," an expert mentioned. "It's a gradual decline, but if it drops off suddenly, that's a red flag."

When to Call a Professional for Solar Repairs

While cleaning your panels yourself (safely!) can be a good first step, many solar system issues require the expertise of a qualified solar technician.

You should definitely call a professional if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent error codes on your inverter: These often point to internal electrical or technical faults.
• A sudden, significant drop in power production: This indicates a major fault that needs immediate attention.
• Visible damage to panels or wiring: Exposed wiring is a safety hazard, and damaged panels need assessment.
• Unusual noises or smells coming from your inverter or electrical components: These could indicate overheating or electrical arcing, which are serious fire risks.
• Your system isn't producing any power at all: This could be a critical system failure.
• You're uncomfortable or unsure about diagnosing the problem yourself: Electrical work can be dangerous.

Remember, attempting complex DIY repairs on a solar system can be incredibly dangerous and could void your warranty. Always prioritise your safety and the longevity of your investment. An experienced professional can quickly diagnose the problem using specialised tools and ensure repairs are done correctly and safely, adhering to South African electrical standards.

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Solar Homeowners

While some issues are unavoidable, regular maintenance can significantly extend the life and efficiency of your solar system.

• Regular Cleaning: Depending on your location, clean your panels every few months. Use a soft brush and water, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon when panels are cool. Always exercise extreme caution when working at heights.
• Visual Inspections: Periodically check your panels for any visible damage, cracks, or excessive dirt build-up. Look at your wiring for any signs of wear or critter damage.
• Monitor Your System: Get familiar with your inverter's display and your monitoring app. Check it regularly for any error codes or unexpected drops in production. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
• Keep Vegetation Trimmed: Ensure no trees or shrubs are growing to cast shade on your panels, especially during peak sunlight hours.

By understanding the common signs of solar system underperformance and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your investment continues to provide clean, reliable energy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do solar panels typically last in South Africa?

Solar panels are designed to be durable and generally have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years or more. Their power output gradually degrades over time, typically by less than 1% per year. The inverter usually has a shorter lifespan, often between 10 and 15 years, and may need replacement sooner than the panels.

What does an inverter fault code mean?

An inverter fault code is a specific alphanumeric display on your solar inverter that indicates a particular problem the inverter has detected. These codes vary by manufacturer, but they usually point to issues like grid connection problems, internal component failures, over-voltage, or under-voltage. Consulting your inverter's manual will provide a detailed explanation for each code.

Can I clean my solar panels myself?

Yes, you can clean your solar panels yourself, but caution is advised. Use a soft brush or a squeegee with plain water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers, which can damage the panels. It's safest to clean them in the early morning or late afternoon when the panels are cool. If your panels are on a high or steeply pitched roof, it's highly recommended to hire a professional for safety reasons.

How often should a solar system be serviced by a professional?

It's generally recommended to have your solar system professionally inspected and serviced at least once every one to three years. This regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early, ensure all components are functioning optimally, and keep your system running efficiently, thereby extending its lifespan and maximising your energy production.