“I have a broken solar panel.  What do I do?  How did this happen?”

Solar panels have been heralded as the beacon of clean and renewable energy, helping us reduce our carbon footprint and save on electricity bills. However, even the most advanced technologies are not immune to wear and tear. When your solar panels become damaged or dysfunctional, it’s crucial to address the issue quickly to maintain optimal energy production. Today we’ll look into the common causes of broken solar panels, their impact, and what steps you can take to address this setback (or even prevent it).

Common  Causes  of  Broken  Solar  Panels

Solar panels are designed to withstand various environmental conditions, but damage happens and these are some things that can contribute:

1. 1. Weather Extremes: Hail, heavy snow, windstorms, and even intense heat can cause physical damage to solar panels over time.

   2. Debris Impact: Falling branches, leaves, and other debris can scratch or crack the surface of solar panels, affecting their efficiency.

   3. Manufacturing Defects: While rare, manufacturing defects can lead to premature failure or malfunction of solar panels.

   4. Poor Installation: Improper installation can result in issues like water leaks, which can damage the internal components of solar panels.

   5. Age and Wear: Over time, even well-maintained solar panels may experience efficiency degradation or damage due to general wear and tear.

   6. Pests: If you didn’t have Critter Guard installed around your panels, squirrels and birds will often nest under the panels, damaging the panels and chewing on wiring.

The  Impact  of  Broken  Solar  Panels

Ignoring broken solar panels can have wide-ranging consequences:

1. Reduced Efficiency: A single damaged panel can decrease the overall efficiency of your solar system, leading to lower energy production and potential loss of financial benefits.

2. Increased Costs: Reduced energy output can result in higher electricity bills, as you’ll need to rely more on conventional power sources.

3. Diminished Return on Investment: Solar panel systems are long-term investments, and failure to address broken panels can diminish the return you reap from your initial investment.

4. Environmental Impact: Solar energy is celebrated for its eco-friendliness. However, a compromised system might push you to rely on fossil fuels, contributing to higher carbon emissions.

Addressing  Broken  Solar  Panels

When you find yourself with broken panels or diminished production, follow these steps to get your system back to 100%:

1. Assessment: Regularly inspect your solar panels for visible damage. If you notice any cracks, discoloration, or other anomalies, it’s time to take action.

2. Contact Spark Solar: Call Spark Solar at (817) 391-8110.  We will assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate solutions.

3. Replacement or Repair: Depending on the severity of the damage, you might need to either repair or replace the broken panels. We will guide you through the best course of action.

4. Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality replacement panels or repairs to ensure that your system continues to function optimally.

5. Regular Maintenance: Implement a regular maintenance schedule to prevent future issues. This includes cleaning debris, checking for loose connections, and inspecting for signs of wear. We recommend a yearly maintenance schedule.

   Like any technology, solar panels require preventative maintenance to prevent costly challenges over time. By promptly addressing broken solar panels, or chewed up wires, you can ensure that your solar investment continues energy production uninterrupted.

   Remember, every ray of sunlight holds the potential for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

   “Plug in to a brighter future with Spark Solar.”