What to Do if You Have a Broken Solar Panel

Are you dealing with a broken solar panel that’s limiting your energy production and unsure of your next steps?

While solar panels are typically reliable and built to last—often over 25 years according to the Energy Saving Trust—they aren’t immune to damage. Designed to withstand various environmental conditions, they can still suffer from wear and tear or accidental harm over time.

This guide not only covers what to do if you find yourself with a damaged solar panel but also delves into how solar panels are made, which is crucial in understanding the nature of potential damage.

We’ll walk you through the steps to identify damage, assess the situation, and explore your repair or replacement options, ensuring you can make informed decisions to restore your system’s efficiency.

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Identify the Damage to Solar Panels

Identifying damage to solar panels is the first step in addressing the issue. Damage can manifest in various forms.

Some can be easily recognised through visual inspections, while others can be more subtle and may require you to call an expert to inspect the broken solar panel. Common types of damage include:

Broken or Cracked Glass – Cracked or shattered glass is one of the most obvious signs of damage. It can result from vandalism or severe weather conditions like hail, debris impacts, or falling branches. Even minor cracks can compromise the panel’s ability to absorb sunlight efficiently, reducing energy output.

Microcracks — Tiny fractures within the solar cells. They’re often invisible to the naked eye and can result from thermal expansion and contraction, poor handling during installation, or manufacturing defects. Over time, microcracks can worsen and reduce the panel’s overall efficiency.

Burn marks or discolouration – Damaged or broken parts on the panel can cause hotspots, leading to uneven heating and reduced efficiency. Discolouration, burn marks, and yellowing are signs of potential hotspots or overheating, which can cause long-term damage and reduce your panel’s lifespan.

Delamination – It can reduce the structural integrity and lifespan of your panel. It occurs when the layers of the solar panel begin to separate due to issues like prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture ingress, or manufacturing flaws.

Physical Deformation: Warping, bending, or any visible physical deformities can indicate severe damage from high winds, improper mounting, or pressure from heavy snow loads. Physical deformities can damage internal cells and impact the panel’s overall functionality.

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Assess the Extent of the Damage

Once you identify potential damage, you need to assess the extent of the damage to determine the impact on your solar system.

Proper assessment is critical for making informed decisions about repairs or replacements and can involve:

Performance Monitoring – Most solar systems come equipped with monitoring tools that allow you to track performance metrics such as energy output, voltage, and efficiency. A sudden or unexplained drop in production can indicate a problem with one or more panels. Monitoring data can help pinpoint the affected panel and assess how significantly the damage impacts overall performance.

Professional Inspection – While you can perform basic checks, hiring a certified solar technician to conduct a thorough and more detailed inspection is recommended. Professionals can use specialised equipment like infrared cameras to detect hotspots and other hidden issues that aren’t visible during routine inspections.

Visual Inspection – Conduct a thorough visual inspection of your solar array. Look for cracks, discolouration, or any signs of physical damage. Perform inspections periodically and after significant weather events to catch damage early. It’s best to perform these checks during daylight hours when sunlight can reveal imperfections such as cracks or hotspots.

Decide Whether to Repair or Replace the Broken Solar Panel

The technician will advise whether you need to repair or replace the panel, depending on the extent of the damage.

This can depend on several factors, including the damage type and extent, the panel’s age, and the repair’s cost-effectiveness.

Repair Considerations

Minor Repairs – A repair can be possible with minimal damage, such as small cracks or superficial issues. For example, technicians can replace broken glass without affecting the underlying cells.

Microcrack Repair: Microcracks generally cannot be repaired since they affect the internal structure of the solar cells. The panel may still function with minor microcracks but with reduced efficiency. Monitor the panel’s output to determine if performance loss is acceptable or if replacement is necessary.

Hotspot Repairs: Hotspots can be addressed by cleaning the panel, removing shading objects, or repairing electrical connections. If the cause of the hotspot is internal damage to the cells, you may need to replace the affected panel.

Replacement Considerations

Replacement is usually the best option for severely damaged panels, such as those with delamination, major cracks, or significant performance loss due to internal cell damage.

Replacing a relatively old damaged panel with a more efficient model can also be beneficial, even if it’s reparable.

Factors to consider include:

Cost – A repair may be cheaper, but it may only be a temporary solution. A replacement can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if the damaged panel is older and less efficient than newer models.

Warranty and insurance coverage — Many solar panels have warranties covering defects and certain types of damage. Warranties typically range from 10 to 25 years for performance and defects. If the damage falls under warranty conditions, you may be eligible for a free replacement or repair. Insurance can also cover damage from weather events, so contact your insurer to explore this option.

How Can You Prevent Damage to Solar Panels?

Preventative measures you can take to protect your panels and reduce the likelihood of future damage include:

Regular Maintenance — Schedule regular maintenance checks with a certified solar technician to ensure the system is in good working order. Clean the panels regularly to prevent dirt and debris from causing shading or hotspots.

Protective Measures — installing protective accessories like bird guards, mesh coverings, or hail-resistant covers to shield panels from physical damage.

System Monitoring — Use monitoring systems to monitor performance. Monitoring tools can alert you to any sudden drops in output that may indicate damage or malfunction.

Proper Installation — Ensure the panels are securely mounted and positioned to minimise exposure to extreme weather conditions. Proper installation reduces the risk of damage from high winds, snow, and other environmental factors.

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Final Thoughts on What to Do If You Have a Broken Solar Panel

Addressing a broken solar panel requires careful identification, assessment, and informed decision-making regarding repair or replacement.

A certified professional can help you determine the extent and impact of the issue and guide you on the most efficient and cost-effective solution.

Sources and References

https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/solar-panels/