Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable rise in the utilization of solar panels, and for good reason. Solar panels are one of the renewable energy sources which generate clean and green energy for us. Although rooftop solar panel systems last for decades and require little or no maintenance, there may be some problems and challenges you can face during their usage. This article will equip you to troubleshoot common problems and issues that can arise with solar panels.
Troubleshooting Solar Panels – 5 Parts Strategy
Troubleshooting a solar panel system typically requires focusing on 5 parts of the system. Because the common problems have been seen to occur in these 5 different parts of the solar PV system, it will help you to identify and resolve these issues without getting into complexity. However, it is recommended to read all relevant user manuals and keep them with you during troubleshooting.
1. Troubleshooting Solar Panels
Start by checking the entire system’s output at the meter or inverter point. Check and note down the input voltage and current levels of the inverter coming from the solar panel’s side. You will likely encounter one of the following circumstances:
A. Zero Power Output (No Power)
B. Low Power Issue
A. Troubleshooting: Zero Power Output (No Power)
Zero output may occur due to the whole solar panel system or a portion of it being down or not generating electricity. Zero output is a common issue, and in nine out of ten situations, it is caused by a faulty inverter or charge controller. There is a possibility that any one of the solar panels in the PV array has become faulty.
Since solar panels are connected in a series of strings, therefore failure of any one solar panel module will shut off the entire solar panel system. Any wiring damage or accidental disconnection may also cause zero power output. Trace out the individual branch wirings working in a backward direction from the concentrator.
Visually inspect the whole system for apparent damage or accidental disconnections. Once the faulty solar panel module or array has been identified, all cables, switches, fuses, and circuit breakers must be inspected. Reset the circuit breakers and switches, and replace any blown fuses. Check for any damaged wires and connections that are either too loose or too dirty; if you find any, replace them and clean them as necessary.
B. Troubleshooting: Low Power Issue
If your solar panel system is not delivering enough power as per the given ratings, then this scenario is called a low-power situation. This is the most typical kind of problem, and by following a few simple troubleshooting techniques, you may identify the issue’s root cause and solve the problem. Factors that can cause low power issues with their troubleshooting steps are described below:
a. Wiring Problems
Loose connections and issues in wiring can cause solar power modules to produce a too-low voltage. Check all the wiring connections by physically inspecting each connection point. You can use a multimeter to check low or no voltage at all the points. Replace and rewire the connection when found faulty or damaged.
b. Shading
Low output from solar panels might result from dirt or shadows on the modules. Check if there are tree branches causing shade on the panels. Although solar panels are designed to be maintenance-free for years, as time passes pollen and dust may gather upon them. Therefore, solar panels may need to be cleaned.
c. Temperature
If shadowing is not a problem, the solar panels’ unusually high working temperature is likely to be the cause of low power output. It has been scientifically established that the voltage drop rises as the temperature increases. The greater the temperature, the lesser the production of power. Increasing the string voltage by adding additional modules in series will resolve this issue. Additionally, ensure enough open space underneath the panels to maintain air circulation.
d. Solar Panel Defects
Solar panels are designed to last more than 25 years in the field as guaranteed by most of the manufacturers. However, some problems can occur with solar panels. The hotspot may develop in the solar panel when micro cracks appear in the cells, causing the increase in resistance hence lowering the voltage in the panel. This will bring the overall voltage of the solar panels’ array down. Secondly, delamination is another problem that may occur in solar panels. You can see delamination with a visual inspection of the solar panels. When delamination begins, moisture may enter the panel’s electrical circuit, causing a current leak or a short.
2. Troubleshooting Solar Panel Loads
The main purpose of a solar panel system is to generate electricity to operate building electrical loads. Any issue that can occur with the loads will affect the solar panel system as well. The first step is to check the load switches, fuses, and circuit breakers with the multimeter to check if the proper voltage exists at the load side or not.
Next, test the fuses and circuit breakers, if found faulty fix or replace them. As with any electrical system, inspect for broken wires and loose connections. Restore all torn wiring and clean any dirty connections.
If the load is still not functioning normally, check the system’s voltage at the load’s connection with the help of a multimeter. There may be a need to increase the wire size if it is too small. Additionally, the cables leading to the loads are likely too long. At the load, this will cause a low voltage issue. In this situation, you may decrease the circuit’s load or connect a wire with a larger diameter.
3. Troubleshooting Solar Panel Inverters
If the solar panel inverter is not producing the desired output values, first test and record the input side operating DC voltage and current levels. Similarly, test and record the inverter’s output AC voltage and current levels. Many inverters show system performance and advanced metering details. Use the inverter screen to show the current total kilowatt (kW) & kilowatt hours (kWh) figures. Note them and compare them with the recorded values taken during the last session. If the inverter isn’t producing the correct amount of power, then there can be three of the following issues:
- Blown fuse
- Tripped breaker
- Broken wires
Moreover, utility problems may affect the inverter’s performance, in the case where the inverter is tied to the local utility. The inverter’s output of alternating current fluctuates in response to the solar panel’s input level. The inverter ensures that the utility receives the proper output voltage and phase. Any utility voltage fluctuations may force the inverter to shut down. In such a case, call the utility provider for technical assistance.
4. Troubleshooting Combiner Boxes
When troubleshooting combiner boxes, amperage measurements and calculations are critical for determining if the solar panel arrays are performing properly. Measure the current on individual solar panel arrays or combine the current readings. This will help you to detect whether any of the cells have got faulty or not.
Here the clamp meter works well that gives you the flexibility to get several readings with multiple conductors in the jaw for combined current measurements. The clamp meter lets you take current measurements even in tight or crowded spaces of the combiner boxes. The combiner box is equipped with a separate fuse for each solar panel module. Check all the fuses if no current is found on any conductor.
Conclusion
After attempting these fundamental troubleshooting methods, if you are still unable to identify the cause of the issue, it is recommended that you contact a qualified and licensed electrician to properly investigate and resolve the issue. Keep in mind that there is always the possibility of receiving an electric shock during any troubleshooting endeavor. Ensure that you are wearing insulating shoes and gloves while completing these tasks and are equipped with properly rated tools.
