How to Perform a DIY Solar Panel Inspection

Solar panels are an innovative way to harness clean energy while lowering your energy bills and lessening your impact on the environment. Like any energy system, proper maintenance is essential to optimizing the performance of your solar panels and their longevity. Regular inspections also identify potential issues before they get out of hand and turn into expensive, time-consuming headaches.
The solar experts at Action Solar are always here for a comprehensive solar inspection in San Marcos. Professional inspections are a necessary part of owning a solar panel system, but you can also perform DIY inspections in between visits to ensure optimal performance. Here’s how to get started inspecting your own solar panels.

1. Prioritize Safety

Before you begin your own solar panel inspection, it’s crucial to focus on safety. After all, solar panels are part of an electrical system and can cause injury. Stay safe by following these expert tips:

• Turn off the system: Look for your solar panel system’s disconnect switch and ensure it’s off before an inspection. If you can’t find it, turn off the power at your circuit breaker instead.
• Avoid wet conditions: Water and electricity simply don’t mix. Avoid inspecting your solar panels when they’re wet to prevent an electrical injury or slipping off your roof.
• Use safety gear: If your solar panel system is roof-mounted, you should use proper fall protection and a sturdy ladder with someone holding it and supervising below.
• Don’t push yourself: If you feel uncomfortable with any part of the solar inspection process, call the team at Action Solar to handle it for you.

2. Visual Inspection of the Panels

The first step in a San Marcos solar panel inspection is a thorough visual check. You can start the process from the ground with a pair of binoculars or, if possible, by safely getting on the roof. Here’s what to look for:

• Cleanliness: Dust, dirt, bird droppings, pollen, and debris can block sunlight and reduce the efficiency of your solar panel system. If your panels look dirty, they may need a gentle cleaning with water and a soft brush, or you can call our team for a professional solar panel cleaning. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the panel’s surface.
• Cracks or Damage: Inspect your solar panels for any visible cracks, chips, or broken glass. Even minor damage can have an impact on your solar panel system’s performance and may result in a panel replacement.
• Loose Wires or Connections: Check for any exposed or frayed wiring, as well as loose connections. These can be hazardous and lead to electrical faults. Make sure to properly secure and cover all wiring.

3. Check for Shade

Your solar panels need unfiltered, unobstructed sunlight to work efficiently and harness energy. It’s possible you installed your solar panels when the surrounding conditions were ideal for maximum sunlight. But as trees or other structures shade your panels, it’s normal to need some adjustments. If possible, trim back trees or remove obstructions that are shading your panels to see if it improves your solar panel system’s performance.

4. Inspect the Mounting System

Over time, your solar panel system’s bolts and mounting system may loosen or encounter issues. During your inspection, check:

• Tightness of bolts and screws: Check that the screws and bolts of your mounting hardware are secure and haven’t shifted after extreme weather.
• Roof attachments: Look over your roof-mounted systems, which are prone to leaks and show signs of water damage.
• Corrosion: Inspect metal parts for signs of rust or corrosion, and alert our solar experts to take care of them before they cause long-term damage.

5. Assess the Inverter

The inverter is one of the most important components of your solar system. Your panels produce direct current (DC), which the inverter converts into alternating current (AC) for your home. If your panels aren’t working efficiently or dropping in efficiency, the problem is often the inverter. Check on the:

• Indicator lights: Most inverters come with some kind of indicator light that shows the system’s status. If your lights don’t indicate normal operation or you see error messages or warnings, grab your manual or call our solar experts for troubleshooting.
• Physical condition: Check the inverter for any visible damage, including cracks or signs of overheating. If your inverter is unusually hot to the touch, you may have a system problem.
• Cooling system: Some inverters come with built-in fans that can overheat when they aren’t running properly.

6. Monitor Energy Output

Many of today’s solar panel systems come with monitoring software or apps that make it simple to track your home’s energy production. It’s a good idea to regularly review the system’s performance to look for reductions in efficiency. A significant decrease will require a professional assessment. To get your system back on track, call the experts at Action Solar for a solar panel inspection in San Marcos.

7. Check for Critter Damage

Birds, squirrels, rodents, and other small animals can get curious or decide to build a nest underneath your solar system. If you notice animals are especially drawn to your solar system, safeguard the area with critter guards to discourage access. If you’ve already found animals around your system and noticed a drop in efficiency, it’s possible they’ve already chewed through your wires. Reach out to our team for a solar panel inspection and we’ll help restore your energy needs.

8. Look for Signs of Moisture

Water and moisture are among the biggest threats to your solar panel’s efficiency and lifespan. It’s crucial to regularly inspect your panels and wiring for moisture buildup, including water stains, rust, or corrosion. Check that your junction boxes, wiring, and electrical connections are properly sealed and weatherproofed to prevent ongoing water damage.

9. Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

DIY solar inspections can be beneficial to catch obvious issues and keep an eye on things, but it’s still important to schedule a professional assessment. The experts from Action Solar offer comprehensive solar inspections in San Marcos with advanced tools and expertise to ensure everything is in optimal working order.

Call Action Solar for a San Marcos Solar Inspection

Keep your solar panels operating at peak efficiency with a San Marcos solar panel inspection. The team at Action Solar is here for all of your solar needs, from installations to repairs, cleaning, and solar batteries. Call us today to schedule your appointment!