5 Common Issues Found During Solar Maintenance

A solar system is one of the most reliable investments you can make for your home, but like any piece of equipment, it needs regular care. Many homeowners think solar panels are “set it and forget it,” and while panels themselves require little day-to-day attention, routine inspections are critical to ensure long-term performance and safety. Here are five of the most common issues we find during solar maintenance — and why addressing them early matters.

1. Loose Electrical Connections

Over time, electrical connections inside your solar system can loosen due to heat expansion, vibration, and normal wear. Even a slightly loose wire can cause inefficiency, overheating, or even fire hazards if ignored. During maintenance, technicians check every connection point, tighten terminals, and inspect for corrosion. Homeowners who skip maintenance often don’t notice these problems until there’s a major failure, which is both dangerous and costly.

2. Shading Problems

Trees grow, new buildings go up, and even a neighbor’s home renovation can create new shading challenges. Solar systems are designed based on the conditions at installation, but shading can change quickly. A few branches blocking the sun may seem harmless, but they can drastically reduce your system’s output — and in some cases, damage your inverter from uneven loads. Regular maintenance includes shading analysis so you know if trimming or redesign adjustments are needed.

3. Dirt and Debris Buildup

Panels are engineered to handle rain and weather, but dust, pollen, and bird droppings can build up and reduce efficiency by 5–20%. In areas like New Jersey, where pollen season is intense, buildup can happen faster than homeowners expect. Technicians can spot stubborn debris during inspections and recommend professional cleanings if needed. Clean panels not only produce more energy but also look better, which is important if you’re considering selling your home.

4. Inverter Errors

The inverter is the “brain” of your solar system, converting the DC electricity from your panels into usable AC power for your home. It’s also the most common point of failure. Small issues like error codes, fan malfunctions, or overheating can cut your production in half without you even realizing it. During maintenance visits, inverters are tested, software is updated, and error logs are reviewed so small problems don’t become system-wide outages.

5. Pest Intrusion

It may surprise homeowners, but birds, squirrels, and even raccoons often nest under solar panels. Not only can this damage wiring, but it also creates fire hazards. Nesting material and droppings can block airflow under panels, causing overheating and reducing lifespan. Professional pest guard installation is often recommended during maintenance if intrusion signs are present.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Solar maintenance is about preventing small issues from turning into major, costly problems. A yearly inspection ensures your system runs efficiently, your warranty remains valid, and your home stays safe.

At SLM Solar, we provide detailed maintenance checks tailored for New Jersey homeowners. From inverter testing to pest prevention, we treat every system as if it were our own.

Call us today at 765-276-6952 

or visit www.slmsolarnj.com to schedule a comprehensive solar health check and keep your investment producing for decades.