Solar Panel Repair & Maintenance Chattanooga

Best Solar Panel Maintenance & Repair in Chattanooga

Receive up to 3 Solar Panel Troubleshooting quotes for your project today! Compare profiles, reviews, accreditations, portfolio, etc... and choose the best deal.

Service Needed
City or Town
Find Pros

Over 4,210+ Solar Contractors on our platform

Our solar contractors operate in Chattanooga & surroundings!

SolarCompaniesHub has curated and vetted Top Solar Installers near Chattanooga. Find a trustworthy business today.

Solar Panel Repair & Maintenance FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions about Solar Panel Repair & Maintenance and connect with qualified professionals in USA through SolarCompaniesHub.

Can solar panels be damaged by hail?

Solar panels are generally designed to withstand hailstorms, but the extent of damage depends on the size and intensity of the hail. Most solar panels undergo testing to ensure they can withstand impacts from hailstones of a certain size. However, larger or more forceful hailstones can crack or damage panels. If you live in a hail-prone area, consider:
  • Choosing impact-resistant solar panels: Some manufacturers offer panels specifically designed for enhanced hail resistance.
  • Protecting your panels during hailstorms: If a hailstorm is forecast, consider covering your panels with a protective barrier, such as a tarp or plywood, if feasible.
  • Inspecting panels after a hailstorm: After a hailstorm, carefully inspect your panels for any signs of damage.
If your panels are damaged by hail, contact your solar installer or a repair specialist. Your insurance may cover hail damage, so it's important to document any damage and file a claim.

How does snow affect my solar panels?

Solar panels can still generate some electricity in snowy conditions, but their output will be significantly reduced. Snow covering the panels blocks sunlight from reaching the solar cells, hindering energy production. In most cases, snow will naturally slide off solar panels due to their smooth surface and angled tilt. The heat generated by the panels when exposed to sunlight can also help melt the snow. However, in regions with heavy snowfall, you may consider:
  • Using a Roof Rake: Carefully remove snow from the panels using a roof rake designed for this purpose. Avoid using abrasive tools or excessive force that could damage the panels.
  • Hiring a Professional: If you are uncomfortable removing snow from your roof or if your panels are difficult to access, consider hiring a professional solar panel cleaning or maintenance company.
It's important to prioritize safety when dealing with snow on your roof. Never walk on a snow-covered roof, as it can be extremely slippery and dangerous.

What are the most common solar panel problems?

Some of the most common solar panel problems include:
  • Panel Degradation: Over time, solar panels naturally lose some efficiency, typically less than 1% per year.
  • Shading: Objects, like trees, buildings, or even bird droppings, can block sunlight from reaching the panels, reducing their output.
  • Microcracks: Tiny cracks in the solar cells can affect performance. These cracks may not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Inverter Issues: Inverters can malfunction due to various reasons, including overheating, electrical surges, or component failure.
  • Wiring Problems: Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity from the panels to the inverter.
  • Roof Leaks: Water damage from roof leaks can affect the panels and wiring.
  • Pest Infestation: Rodents or birds can sometimes damage wiring or nesting under panels.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent or detect many of these problems early on.

How do I know if my solar inverter is working properly?

You can tell if your solar inverter is working properly by:
  • Checking the Display: Most inverters have a display screen that shows real-time energy production, system status, and any error codes. If the display is blank or shows an error message, it indicates a problem.
  • Monitoring Energy Production: Use your solar monitoring system (if you have one) to track energy production. If you notice a significant drop in output, it could be due to an inverter issue.
  • Listening for Unusual Noises: Buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds from the inverter can signal a problem.
  • Checking for Overheating: Inverters can overheat, especially in hot weather. If the inverter feels excessively hot to the touch, it may be malfunctioning.
If you suspect your inverter is not working properly, contact a qualified solar technician for diagnosis and repair.

Can solar panels be damaged by hail?

Solar panels are generally designed to withstand hailstorms, but the extent of damage depends on the size and intensity of the hail. Most solar panels undergo testing to ensure they can withstand impacts from hailstones of a certain size. However, larger or more forceful hailstones can crack or damage panels. If you live in a hail-prone area, consider:
  • Choosing impact-resistant solar panels: Some manufacturers offer panels specifically designed for enhanced hail resistance.
  • Protecting your panels during hailstorms: If a hailstorm is forecast, consider covering your panels with a protective barrier, such as a tarp or plywood, if feasible.
  • Inspecting panels after a hailstorm: After a hailstorm, carefully inspect your panels for any signs of damage.
If your panels are damaged by hail, contact your solar installer or a repair specialist. Your insurance may cover hail damage, so it's important to document any damage and file a claim.

How does snow affect my solar panels?

Solar panels can still generate some electricity in snowy conditions, but their output will be significantly reduced. Snow covering the panels blocks sunlight from reaching the solar cells, hindering energy production. In most cases, snow will naturally slide off solar panels due to their smooth surface and angled tilt. The heat generated by the panels when exposed to sunlight can also help melt the snow. However, in regions with heavy snowfall, you may consider:
  • Using a Roof Rake: Carefully remove snow from the panels using a roof rake designed for this purpose. Avoid using abrasive tools or excessive force that could damage the panels.
  • Hiring a Professional: If you are uncomfortable removing snow from your roof or if your panels are difficult to access, consider hiring a professional solar panel cleaning or maintenance company.
It's important to prioritize safety when dealing with snow on your roof. Never walk on a snow-covered roof, as it can be extremely slippery and dangerous.

What are the most common solar panel problems?

Some of the most common solar panel problems include:
  • Panel Degradation: Over time, solar panels naturally lose some efficiency, typically less than 1% per year.
  • Shading: Objects, like trees, buildings, or even bird droppings, can block sunlight from reaching the panels, reducing their output.
  • Microcracks: Tiny cracks in the solar cells can affect performance. These cracks may not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Inverter Issues: Inverters can malfunction due to various reasons, including overheating, electrical surges, or component failure.
  • Wiring Problems: Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity from the panels to the inverter.
  • Roof Leaks: Water damage from roof leaks can affect the panels and wiring.
  • Pest Infestation: Rodents or birds can sometimes damage wiring or nesting under panels.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent or detect many of these problems early on.

How do I know if my solar inverter is working properly?

You can tell if your solar inverter is working properly by:
  • Checking the Display: Most inverters have a display screen that shows real-time energy production, system status, and any error codes. If the display is blank or shows an error message, it indicates a problem.
  • Monitoring Energy Production: Use your solar monitoring system (if you have one) to track energy production. If you notice a significant drop in output, it could be due to an inverter issue.
  • Listening for Unusual Noises: Buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds from the inverter can signal a problem.
  • Checking for Overheating: Inverters can overheat, especially in hot weather. If the inverter feels excessively hot to the touch, it may be malfunctioning.
If you suspect your inverter is not working properly, contact a qualified solar technician for diagnosis and repair.