Is your solar system underperforming? These are the seven most common problems we see — and what you can do about each one.
Solar systems are designed to run for 25+ years with minimal issues. But problems do occur — and catching them early saves money. Here are the seven most common solar problems we see at Pell Solar, and what to do about each one.
Symptoms: No production, error codes on monitoring app, inverter display showing fault
Cause: Inverters are the most failure-prone component in a solar system. String inverters typically last 10–15 years. Microinverters (Enphase) last longer but can still fail.
Fix: Inverter replacement. Cost varies by type — string inverters: $1,000–$2,500; microinverters: $150–$300 per unit. If your inverter is under warranty, replacement is free.
Symptoms: System producing less than expected, higher-than-expected electric bills
Cause: Many possible causes — panel soiling, new shading, panel degradation, inverter issues, wiring problems
Fix: Start with panel cleaning. If production is still low, have a technician run diagnostics to identify the root cause.
Symptoms: Sudden production drop, visible chewed wiring, scratching sounds on roof
Cause: Squirrels, birds, and rodents nest under panels and chew through wiring
Fix: Repair damaged wiring, install critter guard to prevent recurrence. Cost: $500–$1,500 depending on damage extent.
Symptoms: Water stains on ceiling near panel mounting points, visible rust around flashing
Cause: Improper installation — inadequate flashing, wrong sealant, or penetrations in the wrong location
Fix: Remove panels, repair roof, reinstall with proper flashing. If the original installer is still in business and the leak is due to their installation, it should be covered under workmanship warranty.
Symptoms: Monitoring app shows devices offline, no production data
Cause: Wi-Fi router change, internet outage, gateway firmware issue
Fix: Often resolved by rebooting the gateway (Enphase Envoy or Tesla Gateway). If that doesn't work, check Wi-Fi credentials and signal strength at the gateway location.
Symptoms: Gradual production decline, visible dark spots on panels (visible with thermal camera)
Cause: Thermal stress, hail, foot traffic, or manufacturing defects
Fix: Panel replacement. If within the 25-year product warranty, the manufacturer covers it. Document with photos and contact your installer.
Symptoms: One panel producing significantly less than others, visible discoloration
Cause: Partial shading, cell defects, or soiling causing current mismatch within a panel
Fix: Clean the affected panel first. If the hot spot persists, the panel may need replacement. Hot spots can cause fires if left unaddressed — don't ignore them.
If your system is producing more than 15% below expected, or if you see any physical damage, call a licensed solar contractor. Many issues can be diagnosed remotely through monitoring data before an on-site visit is needed.
Pell Solar services all brands — not just systems we installed. We offer free remote diagnostics for systems with active monitoring.
Get a free, no-pressure quote from Pell Solar. Family-owned since 2003.