What Are The Most Common Problems With Solar Panels November 26, 2025 Solar panels are known for being reliable and long-lasting, but like any part of your home’s electrical system, they can experience problems over time. Many homeowners want to understand what the most common issues are so they can recognise early warning signs and avoid unnecessary drops in performance. Knowing what typically goes wrong helps you protect your long-term energy output and keep your system working as it should. 8 Problems That Commonly Affect Solar Panels Reduced Efficiency and Power Loss A gradual drop in energy output is one of the first signs that something is not right. This can happen for several reasons, including dirt or debris building up on the panels, shading from nearby trees, or ageing solar cells losing efficiency over time. When sunlight cannot reach the active surface properly, the system produces less power. Homeowners may notice this through increased electricity usage or lower readings on their monitoring app. Panel Cracks and Physical Damage Although solar panels are designed to be robust, they can still suffer impact damage. Hail, falling branches, or accidental knocks during maintenance work can lead to cracks in the glass. Even small cracks can disrupt the way light enters the cells and reduce performance. In more serious cases, water can leak into the panel and cause electrical faults. Once moisture enters, the problem tends to worsen over time. Inverter Faults and Intermittent Power The inverter is often described as the heart of a solar system because it converts the energy produced by the panels into usable electricity. Since it works constantly, it is one of the components most likely to encounter problems. Common signs include frequent error codes, reduced power output, or the inverter turning off unexpectedly. Internal wear, overheating, and wiring issues can all cause inverter faults. Without a functioning inverter, the panels cannot deliver energy to your home at all. Loose, Damaged, or Weathered Wiring All solar systems rely on secure electrical connections between the panels, the inverter, and the consumer unit. Over time, wiring can become loose, corroded, or damaged by weather conditions. Rodents can also chew through exposed cables, leading to power interruptions or a complete system shutdown. Faulty wiring may not be immediately visible, but it can cause serious safety concerns if left unchecked. Hotspots That Reduce Panel Lifespan Hotspots occur when a small section of a panel becomes significantly hotter than the surrounding area. This usually happens when dirt, damage, or shading prevents part of the panel from receiving even sunlight. Hotspots reduce efficiency and can permanently damage the cells if not addressed. Over time, they are one of the common factors that shorten the lifespan of a solar panel. Monitoring System Failures Most modern solar installations include a monitoring system that tracks energy production, daily output, and system performance. When this system stops sending accurate data, homeowners often assume it is a software fault, but it may indicate deeper issues such as sensor problems, inverter communication faults, or poor connectivity. Without a reliable monitoring system, it becomes harder to identify performance drops early. Water Ingress and Moisture Build Up Broken seals or cracks in the panel frame can allow water to enter the internal layers. Moisture can cause corrosion, discolouration, and reduced electrical flow. If left untreated, water ingress often spreads across the panel and makes the entire unit less efficient. This problem is more common in older installations where sealants have begun to degrade. Weather-Related Wear Although solar panels are weather-resistant, long-term exposure to strong winds, heavy snow, and intense heat can lead to gradual wear. High temperatures can temporarily reduce efficiency, while strong winds can loosen mounting brackets or connections. Over many years, the combined effects of weather can contribute to several of the issues listed above. Professional solar repairs in Carterton, Abingdon, and Witney R Harris Electrical Services provides thorough inspections and trusted repairs to keep your solar panels performing at their best. Call 0792982574 or fill out our contact form to book a visit from our experienced team.
