You might not be able to see physical damage to the electrical infrastructure, but there will be telltale signs that something is not quite right.
Discoloured or burnt panel surfaces
This could suggest that the panel laminate is corroded. The discolouration will appear as a yellow or dark brown stain on the metal conductor strips.
Broken glass
Broken glass or fractures can be caused by impacts or extreme temperature changes. Adverse weather conditions, such as hailstorms, snow and strong winds blowing debris, can also damage the surface of the panels.
Broken or bent frames
You need the mounts and structures of your panels to also be in good form. Broken or bent frames should be addressed to minimise the risk of further damage.
Power inverter error message
The power inverter transforms the DC power from the solar panels into usable AC power. These inverters can also monitor when something’s wrong and produce an error code. If the inverter has shut down and disconnected itself, this can be a key sign that something is wrong. Often, the problem will be a change in power frequencies or an incorrect or unstable voltage. Error codes can also be triggered by an electrical fault or component failure.
Details of what the error code signifies will be found in the technical manual. A commercial solar panel maintenance specialist should be able to diagnose the issue and provide the best resolution.
Lagging performance
When comparing performance, is it well below the stated specifications or have you seen a particular fall in performance? If there are large discrepancies between your quotes and actual output, it’s a sign there’s a problem.
For commercial sites, regular maintenance is essential. An annual package will help to minimise the risk of any urgent repairs or replacements. It will also help optimise the output of your investment. When your panels are situated on the roof or if you’re operating a large-scale solar park, identifying problems is easier said than done.
The commercial solar PV maintenance team at Remark Group can help with urgent diagnostics and repairs. Contact us to find out more.
