When your solar system isn’t performing as expected, it can feel frustrating—especially since you rely on it to lower your energy costs and support your home with clean energy. Some problems are obvious; others are more subtle. Below are common issues homeowners face, how to troubleshoot them, and when it’s best to call in the experts.
What Homeowners Should Know First
Communication systems (apps, monitoring dashboards, data loggers) are just as important as panels, inverters, and wiring. If data transmission stops or is erratic, you may lose visibility into system performance. This means under-performing panels or failures go un-noticed — reducing savings, voiding warranties or incentives. This is emphasized in Green Ridge Solar’s guide. Green Ridge Solar
Common Issues & How to Fix Them
| # | Symptom | What Might Be Wrong | What You Can Try |
| 1. No or Low Power Output | System shows “0 kW” or way below expectations despite full sun | Panel shading, dirty panels, inverter not functioning, wiring issues | Clean panels; check for shading from trees or debris; see inverter display for error codes; call electrician if wiring looks damaged |
| 2. Inverter Errors | Inverter lights are red/orange, or it has shut down | Overheating, internal faults, firmware issues, wrong settings | Reset inverter (if manual allows), ensure it’s well ventilated, check firmware updates, contact installer if errors persist |
| 3. Communication Failures | Monitoring dashboard/app shows offline, missing data, or sudden drop in reported generation | WiFi/router problems, data logger or gateway issue, faulty inverter communication module, power interruptions | Verify WiFi is working; reboot router and gateway; check connections; inspect status lights on inverter or data logger; update app/software; if not resolved, call professional. Green Ridge Solar emphasizes that even when panels are producing power, lost communication hides issues. Green Ridge Solar |
| 4. Panel Degradation or Physical Damage | Lower output over time, cracked glass, or damage from weather/hail | Panels degrade with age; damage from hail, debris; loose mounts | Inspect visually; replace cracked panels; ensure bolts or mounts are secure; consider upgrading to higher-efficiency panels if degradation severe |
| 5. Wiring / Electrical Connections | Flickering outputs, tripped breakers, no power in part of the array | Loose or corroded connectors; breaker/fuse issues; damaged wiring | Turn off power safely, inspect connections; check breakers; if unsure, get a licensed electrician or solar tech |
| 6. Utility / Grid Issues | System shuts down when grid goes out; delayed restart; grid voltage problems | Many systems are designed to shut off for safety during grid outages; utility may have restrictions; inspections might be required before activation | Confirm with local utility about outage rules; check if permissions/interconnection agreement are in place; wait for utility to restore. If your system doesn’t restart post-grid restoration, contact your installer. |
Steps to Troubleshoot Before Calling a Pro
- Check the Monitoring System / App
- Look for offline alerts, missing days/weeks of data, or sudden dips.
- Confirm your home internet/router is functional.
- Look for offline alerts, missing days/weeks of data, or sudden dips.
- Inspect Inverter & Communication Hardware
- Look for status/error lights.
- Ensure everything is powered on.
- Look for status/error lights.
- Check Panels & Physical Condition
- Clean any obvious debris.
- Look for damage like cracks or loose mount hardware.
- Clean any obvious debris.
- Review Utility / Grid Status
- Is there a known grid outage?
- Has the interconnection agreement been completed?
- Is there a known grid outage?
- Homeowner Logging
- Keep a log of when issues appear (time of day, weather, after storms) to help diagnose patterns.
- Keep a log of when issues appear (time of day, weather, after storms) to help diagnose patterns.
When to Call a Professional
- You see persistent error codes on the inverter that you cannot interpret or fix.
- Communication problems persist despite checking network and hardware.
- Wiring, structural, or electrical faults—these are hazardous and often covered by warranty only if handled by certified professionals.
- Output continues to be low over time even after cleaning and checking.
Why Prompt Fixes Matter
- You avoid losing savings due to unrecognized underperformance.
- Warranties and incentives often require documentation or performance logs—if communication fails, you may lose coverage. (This is noted by Green Ridge Solar.) Green Ridge Solar
- Keeping the system well maintained extends its lifespan, maximizes energy production, and ensures safety.
Next Steps & Free Help
If you’re having trouble diagnosing the issue or want help restoring full performance, contact EcoSolar USA for a free consultation. Our experts will:
- Run diagnostics (including communication and inverter checks)
- Recommend repairs or component replacements
- Help with monitoring setup and warranty documentation
- Ensure your system is safe, efficient, and operating as expected