Once you learn how to repair solar panels, you’ll be capable of improving your system’s efficiency and prolonging its lifespan while saving yourself the expense of new components. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of going solar much longer.
That said, it’s important to know when to fix solar panels and when to buy new ones. The right set of tools can solve some issues, but severe damage may require a full replacement.
In this article, we’ll explain when it’s time to repair solar panels and how you can do it. We’ll also list the common ways they can get damaged so that you know what to pay attention to regarding solar panel maintenance. Let’s start!
How to Know If There’s a Problem With Your Solar Panels
The most prominent sign there’s a problem with your solar panels is a change in their performance. Simply put, if you notice they’ve been producing less electricity or there’s a difference between the voltages they generate and those specified by the manufacturer, this might be a red flag.
Another way you can tell your panels need to be repaired (or possibly replaced) is by inspecting your photovoltaic installation every once in a while to ensure there are no scratches, cracks, or dents. If you find any, you should consult a professional inspector just to be on the safe side.
Can Solar Panels Be Repaired?
Generally speaking, solar panels can be repaired, but this depends on the type and severity of the damage. Minor issues, such as loose wiring, faulty inverters, or dirt build-up, can often be fixed fairly easily. The same goes for microcracks and slightly damaged solar cells—while the damage itself can’t be repaired, its effects can be managed.
However, if the glass is flaking off or there’s a major internal failure, replacement is likely your only option.
Whether you can repair solar panels also depends on their type, warranty coverage, and available spare parts. Some manufacturers offer repair services, while with others, you either need to replace solar panel parts or the entire setup. With this in mind, you should inspect your panels regularly to catch small issues before they turn into costly problems.
That said, it’s important to consider efficiency loss—if an old, damaged panel no longer generates enough solar power, replacing it might be more cost-effective than repairing it.
How to Repair Solar Panels: Step-by-Step Guide
It’s usually best to consult a professional to repair solar panels, as improper fixes can do more damage than good. That said, you may be able to take care of some minor issues yourself as long as you have adequate tools and equipment.
Let’s break the repair process down into stages:
#1. Wear Safety Gear
If you need to repair solar panels on the roof, wearing safety gear is a must. This includes stable ladders and non-slip footwear in which you can move around without risking a fall. Insulated gloves are also highly advisable, as they can protect you from electrical burns and shocks.
Additionally, you should shield your eyes from falling debris or accidental splashes with safety glasses.
Lastly, if you’re working in direct sunlight, remember to use sunscreen and bring a hat.
#2. Disconnect the Panels
Before starting any repair work, make sure to disconnect the panels from the system or solar generator to avoid electrical hazards. You can do this by shutting off the inverter and the main electrical switch—this way, there will be no current running through the system.
If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper disconnection. Otherwise, you’re running the risk of damaging the solar system components or injuring yourself.
#3. Conduct a Visual Inspection
In order to repair solar panels, you must first diagnose the issue that needs to be addressed. Start by checking for dust, dirt, and debris that may be blocking the sunlight and reducing the panels’ efficiency. Then, look for visible damage, such as cracks, discoloration, or any other signs of wear and tear.
Once you’re done examining the surface of the panels, you can move on to the wiring. Inspect it for fraying and corrosion, and make sure the connections are secure.
#4. Clean the Surface of the Panels
If you need to repair solar panel glass, it’s important that you first clean the surface. This way, you’ll have a clear view of any scratches, dents, or cracks that need to be fixed.
Use a microfiber cloth, a non-abrasive brush, or a soft sponge and gently scrub off the dust and debris. As for the cleaning solution, it’s best to mix a few drops of mild soap with water and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
Speaking of rinsing, avoid pressure washers, as they can crack the glass. Instead, use a garden hose with a gentle spray setting to remove the soap and dirt.
Finally, wipe the excess water with a clean cloth so that you can proceed with repairs without any obstructions.
#5. Use a Solar Repair Kit
As previously mentioned, you need adequate tools to repair solar panels. Fortunately, you can find everything you need in a solar panel repair kit, including adhesive for cracked glass, tools for tightening loose components, and special sealants for leaks.
However, it’s not enough to just have the right tools—you also need to know how to use them. Follow the instructions carefully and only use the materials that are compatible with your panel’s model.
That said, solar repair kits are only helpful with minor fixes. If there’s a major problem with your panels, you’ll likely need professional assistance.
#6. Locate Loose Wires and Replace Them
Sometimes, solar panel malfunctions have nothing to do with the panels themselves but with the wiring. Therefore, trace the wires from the panels to the inverter, looking for any signs of wear and tear, disconnection, or damage.
If that’s where the problem is, fixing solar wiring will be your next step. For this, you’ll need to have high-quality replacements and make sure they’re securely connected and well-insulated. By doing so, you’ll minimize the risk of electrical issues and possibly prolong your solar panels’ lifespan.
#7. Remove Damaged Seals or Laminations
The seals and laminations on the solar panels protect the internal components from moisture and environmental factors. With this in mind, if they’re damaged or worn out, water can seep in, causing electrical problems or eating away at metal parts. As a result, you may even need to repair solar panel rust down the line.
To prevent this, carefully remove the damaged parts with a sealant remover to avoid harming the glass or wiring. Then, replace them with new seals to protect the panels and maintain their efficiency.
#8. Check Energy Output
Once you’re done with repairs, you need to make sure they’ve paid off—in other words, that your panels are working properly and generating solar energy the way they should.
You can check their output with a solar meter or monitor the system’s performance on the inverter’s display. Then, compare what you see with the expected values based on your location and the system’s specifications.
If there’s a significant drop in energy production after repair, this can mean the issue hasn’t been fully resolved. In this case, you might want to consult a professional for help and have them inspect the panels.
5+ Common Ways Solar Panels Get Damaged
The most common ways solar panels get damaged include faulty wiring, debris build-up, and improper cleaning. Identifying the root cause early on can help prevent further problems and avoid complex repairs or expensive replacements.
In light of this, let’s see all the ways solar panels can get damaged:
#1. Cracked Glass
Cracked solar panel glass is one of the most common reasons for repairs. It can result from various factors, including thermal cycling—the constant contraction and expansion caused by temperature fluctuations.
While these cracks are usually small at first (known as microcracks), if you don’t address them in time, they can spread and cause the glass to flake. At that point, your panels’ water resistance will be compromised, which leads to water damage.
#2. Water Damage
Water can damage solar panels in several ways, especially with worn-out seals and laminations that offer little protection. If water gets inside the panel, it can corrode its metal parts and affect its electrical connections, leading to short circuits or complete system failure.
In addition, water can freeze and expand inside the panel, causing the glass to crack. In such cases, you’d need a solar panel replacement guide, as this type of damage is usually beyond repair.
#3. Faulty Wiring
If your panels are clean and crack-free, yet there’s still a noticeable drop in your system’s energy production, faulty wiring may be at play. To know for sure, you can measure the voltage resistance with a multimeter. If it’s lower than it should be, there’s likely a short circuit.
#4. Debris Build-Up
Pollen, dust, bird droppings, leaves, sap, and other debris can pile up and block sunlight, decreasing your panels’ efficiency. Even worse, if left there for too long, debris can create hot spots and even lead to microcracks. This is a common occurrence with flat roof installation—debris is more likely to fall off of panels set up on a gradient.
#5. Weather Damage
Depending on your location, your panels may be prone to different types of weather damage. For example, hailstorms can crack or break the glass, while extremely hot temperatures can cause the panels to overheat. Heavy wind can also create issues, typically by displacing the panels or dislodging some of its parts.
#6. Improper Cleaning
Improper cleaning is a major cause of solar panel damage. For instance, if you use abrasive materials, you can scratch the glass, risking microcracks and reduced efficiency over time. The same goes for harsh chemicals, which can degrade the panels’ protective coating.
Additionally, pressure washers can force water inside the panels, which can result in electrical damage.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair Solar Panels?
Solar panel repair costs range from as little as $120 to as much as $3,000. The exact price depends on several factors, including the installation, the type of panels you have, the damage that needs to be fixed, and the professional you hire.
Minor repairs, such as fixing loose wiring or replacing fuses, are generally on the lower end of the cost spectrum. On the other hand, replacing damaged solar cells or fixing water damage can significantly increase the cost.
That said, remember to factor in labor costs, which can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the repair.
When to Repair and When to Replace Solar Panels
It’s important to know when to repair solar panels and when to replace them with new ones. Otherwise, you may waste more money trying to fix irreparable damage than you would investing in new panels.
Problems that can be solved relatively easily are small cracks, loose wiring, and built-up debris. You may not even need professional help with some. In contrast, glass delamination, which is essentially panel layers separating from each other, or a significant drop in energy production generally signifies it might be time to upgrade your system.
Replacing old, inefficient panels with new ones ensures your home continues to benefit from reliable, renewable energy solutions. At Portable Sun, we offer a wide range of top-quality models that maximize performance and longevity. Whatever system or setup you want, you can choose from our selection and find the perfect fit for your needs.
How to Prevent Solar Panel Damage: 3 Tips
Now that you know what can damage your solar panels, let’s see what you can do to prevent that from happening:
- Clean your panels regularly. Cleaning is an important part of solar panel maintenance, and the rule of thumb is to do it twice a year. Still, if you don’t do it properly, you can do more harm than good. To avoid that, make sure to use soft sponges and cloths and rinse the soap off with low-pressure water.
- Monitor system performance. Many solar setups come with a monitoring feature that tracks energy production and consumption in real-time. Alternatively, you can check the inverter display to see the panels’ output and look for any faults in the system. You should also keep track of your energy bills—a drop in savings could indicate a problem.
- Install protective covers or shields. If you live in an area with heavy hail or storms, your panels may need extra protection. That’s what covers and shields are for—to prevent physical damage. However, make sure they’re designed specifically for solar panels. Otherwise, they may restrict sunlight or cause overheating.
Final Thoughts
Switching to solar power is a great long-term investment—it allows you to generate and use your own renewable energy round the clock and watch your electricity bills shrink over time.
However, some things, such as environmental factors, are out of your control. They can damage your setup, which is why you need to know how to repair solar panels.
Smaller problems, like loose wiring and microcracks, are relatively easy to solve—you can even take care of them yourself. On the other hand, major damage typically requires professional help or solar panel replacement.
Either way, investing in your panels ensures you have a reliable energy source and an eco-friendly future.
How to Repair Solar Panels FAQ
#1. How long can a solar panel last?
A solar panel can typically last for 25 to 30 years. Over time, its efficiency gradually decreases, although it can still produce energy. That said, proper cleaning and maintenance can help prolong a solar panel’s lifespan and maintain its performance.
#2. What is the best way to fix cracks in solar panels?
The best way to fix cracks in solar panels is with a protective sealant. However, this only goes for smaller cracks, also known as microcracks. Larger ones are typically irreparable—in such cases, investing in new panels is a safer and more cost-effective solution.
#3. Can solar panels damaged by hail or weather be repaired?
Solar panels damaged by hail or weather can be repaired if the damage isn’t too severe. Still, you might want to consult a professional and have them inspect your setup.
#4. What tools do I need to repair solar panels at home safely?
The tools you need to repair solar panels at home safely are insulated gloves, protective glasses, a soft brush, screwdrivers, a multimeter, and a sealant. That said, DIY solar panel repair should only be your option for small issues. In case of complex repairs, it’s best to consult a professional.
Disclaimer: The content on Portable Sun is for informational purposes only. Electrical work can be dangerous—always consult a qualified professional. We are not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses from installation or use. Always follow local regulations and safety guidelines when handling electrical components.