Top 5 Solar P.V. Problems and What You Can do To Help Avoid Them.

Installing a solar PV system on your roof marks a significant investment in sustainable energy for your home. However, to maximise its benefits over the long term, proactive monitoring and regular maintenance can help minimise any potential issues.

Here are five common issues encountered with solar PV systems after installation, along with effective solutions to ensure your system continues to deliver maximum energy efficiency and reliability:

1. Bird Nesting

Solar skirt (also known as solar fins) can be used to fit around the edges of panels to deter small pests.

Birds (and other small animals) are naturally attracted to the space beneath solar panels for nesting, leading to debris accumulation and potential damage to wiring. This not only compromises the efficiency of your system but also poses safety risks. To mitigate this issue of nesting birds, we recommend installing protective measures such as solar mesh or solar guards around the panels. These solutions deter birds and squirrels while ensuring your system operates at peak performance. The picture to the right shows Solar Skirt, which is an optional upgrade to the standard bird mesh system.

2. Solar Panel Underperformance

Over time, solar panels can develop various issues such as micro-cracks, snail trails, and hot spots, all of which can impact their efficiency and lifespan. Regular visual inspections can help in identifying these issues early. Opting for high-quality panels reduces the risk of such problems, while timely cleaning and maintenance when required help prevent the build up of dirt. Our team advises on proper maintenance protocols tailored to maximise your panels' performance throughout their intended lifespan. Depending on the area you live in, could mean you need to clean your panels more regularly, for example, if you live near the sea or a busy road. For more information on cleaning your panels, we wrote a specific article that goes into greater detail - you can read the article by clicking here.

3. Inverter Malfunction

As the heart of your solar PV system, inverters convert solar energy into usable electricity. Overheating, electrical faults, and general wear can lead to malfunctions, reducing system efficiency. Proper installation in a cool, ventilated area and regular monitoring are key to extending the lifespan of your inverter. Additionally, upgrading to newer models every 10-15 years can minimise the risk of frequent malfunctions, ensuring reliable energy conversion. At the SolarandBatteryCompany.com, we provide extended warranties of ten years as standard.

4. Wiring and Connection Issues

Linked to the above issue of panel underperformance, over time, badly connected wiring can become loose, resulting in corrosion or even damage which can cause connectivity issues and energy loss. The use of high-quality, weather-resistant materials during installation, and good installation practices, using the correct tools for connecting cabling, are critical to preventing such issues. These practices not only align with UK regulations but also safeguard the reliability and safety of your solar system, ensuring it continues to perform optimally. It is imperative that you use a good installation company to ensure that connections are completed correctly at the time of installation, to reduce this occurrence as much as possible and reduce the upheaval of corrective work in the future.

5. Performance Monitoring Failures

Monitoring systems are vital for tracking the performance of your solar PV system. However, occasional failures can lead to inaccurate data or complete shutdowns. Proper installation and regular checks of both software and hardware components are essential to preventing monitoring failures. Keeping software updated and promptly seeking assistance from your installer or manufacturer's support team can resolve issues swiftly, ensuring accurate performance data and timely troubleshooting.

At SolarandBatteryCompany.com, we emphasise proactive maintenance and adherence to UK regulations to ensure your solar PV system operates efficiently over its lifetime. By addressing these common issues through regular inspections, quality installations, and client education, we empower homeowners to maximise their investment in sustainable energy. For more information on our services and how we can support your solar journey, visit our website or contact our expert team today.

Understanding the different types of solar panel bird proofing

Install Bird Mesh

Bird mesh is widely recognised as one of the most effective solutions to prevent birds from nesting under solar panels. This durable mesh is typically made from materials like stainless steel or plastic, ensuring resistance to weather and rust. It acts as a barrier around the perimeter of your panels, effectively denying birds access to the space beneath where they commonly seek shelter.

Install Skirt Guards

Solar skirt guards offer an aesthetically pleasing solution at preventing birds and small animals from accessing the area beneath your solar panels. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials like aluminium or galvanised steel, these guards provide a secure enclosure while enhancing the overall look of your solar array. At the SolarandBatteryCompany.com we install standard bird mesh as part of our installation and solar skirts can be purchased as an optional upgrade.