Switching to solar is one of the smartest investments Southern California homeowners can make. But like any home system, solar panels and their components need a little care to keep working at peak efficiency.
The good news? Most solar panel problems are rare, preventable, and easy to fix. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common solar panel issues, what causes them, and how to keep your system producing clean, affordable power for decades.
Do Solar Panels Lose Efficiency Over Time?
Yes — but only gradually. Modern solar panels are designed to last 25–35 years, with warranties to back them up. Here’s what most homeowners experience:
Year 1: A small efficiency drop of about 2–3% (called “light-induced degradation”) as panels adjust to full sunlight.
Long-Term: Panels lose only 0.5–0.8% efficiency per year after that.
End of 25 Years: Most high-quality panels are still producing 80–90% of their original output.
👉 Takeaway: With the right equipment, solar panels will keep delivering strong energy savings for decades.
Can Weather Damage Solar Panels?
Homeowners often ask, “Will hail or storms damage my panels?” The truth: quality panels are built to withstand extreme weather.
Panels are tested to handle winds up to 140 mph and hail up to 1 inch in diameter.
In a 2017 Denver hailstorm, only 1 out of 3,000 panels at a solar lab was damaged — while nearby cars and roofs were destroyed.
👉 Takeaway: Durable panels + proper installation = excellent protection, even in tough weather.
The #1 Source of Solar System Problems: Inverters
Your solar panels create electricity, but your inverter converts it into power your home can use. Because inverters work hardest, they’re the most common source of solar hiccups.
Typical Inverter Issues:
Overheating: Causes sudden shutdowns.
Wiring/Connection Problems: Can cause fluctuating output.
Software Errors: May trigger error messages or reduced performance.
Component Wear: Over time, parts like fans or capacitors may fail.
👉 Takeaway: Inverters cause most solar service calls, but with monitoring and regular maintenance, problems can be caught early.
How to Fix Common Solar Panel Problems
1. Cleaning Dirty Panels
Dust, pollen, and bird droppings can reduce efficiency by 7–30%. Regular cleaning can boost output by up to 15%.
Best Practices:
Rinse with a garden hose or deionized water.
Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth — never metal tools.
Avoid soap (it can leave residue).
Clean panels in the morning when they’re cool.
2. Spotting Physical Damage
Check panels for:
Cracks or microcracks (spiderweb-like patterns).
Frame damage (bent or warped edges).
Moisture under glass (seal failure).
If you see any of these signs, call a solar professional immediately.
3. Inverter Troubleshooting
Ensure the inverter has proper ventilation.
Check and tighten connections.
Reset or update software if prompted.
If error codes persist → call your solar provider.
Preventing Future Problems
The best way to avoid issues is proactive care:
Quality Equipment Matters
High-efficiency panels with 25-year warranties.
Reliable inverters with built-in monitoring.
Corrosion-resistant hardware rated for local weather.
Maintenance Schedule
Clean panels: 2–4 times per year.
Professional inspection: Once per year (extra after major storms).
System monitoring: Many apps let you track performance daily.
Tree trimming: Keep panels free of shading.
👉 Takeaway: With routine care, solar systems can outperform expectations and last beyond 30 years.
FAQs
Q: How can I tell if my solar system has a problem?
Check your monitoring app. If production drops suddenly, or your bill goes up unexpectedly, there may be shading, dirt, or an inverter issue.
Q: How often should solar panels be inspected?
At least once a year — more often if you live in a dusty area or experience severe storms.
Q: What’s the most expensive part to replace?
Inverters. Depending on the type, replacement can cost $1,500–$3,000 — but extended warranties often cover them.
Why Choose Option One Solar?
At Option One Solar, we build systems designed to minimize problems from the start. Here’s how:
We use premium panels and inverters built for Southern California’s climate.
Every system includes a 25-year warranty.
Our expert monitoring tools catch small issues before they become big repairs.
We provide affordable service plans for long-term peace of mind.
📞 Call us today at (855) 502-6363 or request your free system checkup or new solar quote online.
⚡ Protect your investment. Power your future.
