Can’t keep up with the electric bills anymore? Have high-cost electric bills but can’t figure out why? If so, you may be suffering from an outdated solar panel system.
Early systems weren’t made as well or with as many features as today’s systems. This makes them less efficient and easier to break. So, how can you tell if you need to upgrade your solar power system?
Keep reading to learn about some of the signs your home needs a solar panel replacement. Don’t wait to address these issues. The longer you wait, the more you’ll have to pay (and spend) to solve the issue.
Let’s get started.
1. Dimming of Lights
If you’ve noticed the lights in your home dimming, this could be a sign that you need to replace your solar panel. Your solar panel handles converting the energy coming from the sun into energy you can use to power your home. As the panel gets older, it can start to lose its effectiveness and not be able to keep up with the energy demands of your home.
If you start noticing that your lighting is getting dimmer, it’s likely you need a new solar panel installed. You will experience improved energy efficiency throughout your home, and be able to use more energy than you could before the upgrade. You will also be able to save on electricity bills, as the new solar panel will produce more energy.
2. Increasing Bill
A faulty solar panel can reduce the amount of energy your home is able to draw from the sun, leading to higher energy costs. High-powered appliances, like washers and dryers, can be tough on aging panels, and your utility bill may spike due to the extra energy they need.
If you notice your energy bills getting higher—even when energy usage remains the same—it could be a sign that your solar panel is in need of replacement. If you have an older system, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model for the greatest energy savings. If you suspect your system is failing, contact the local installer about this as soon as possible to diagnose any issues and decide the best course of action.
3. Failed to Provide the Expected Amount of Energy
A solar panel replacement may be necessary if your home is failing to provide the expected amount of energy. One of the first signs to look for is a lack of energy production from the solar panel system.
Checking your solar panels is an important part of making sure you are getting the most out of their energy generation. Make sure you have the right equipment to check them. Investing in a solar energy monitor is a great way to keep track of your system’s performance.
Check out the solar system’s panel peaks. Use a meter or energy to measure how much energy the solar panels are producing each day.
Watch for any drops in energy output. Keep an eye out for any sudden drops in energy conversion that could mean your system needs maintenance.
Inspect the solar modules for any damage or debris. Trailers and branches can reduce efficiency, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any damage.
Check the inverter regularly. Pay close attention to the inverter’s performance and efficiency.
4. Unexplained Sounds Coming From the System
Unexplained sounds coming from your system are signs that your home needs a solar panel replacement. You should take a closer look at your solar panel to make sure it isn’t worn down or damaged. If the panels appear to be in poor condition or produce a strange noise when the solar-powered equipment is in use, they should be replaced as soon as possible.
It will reduce the amount of noise pollution in the home. A good solar panel replacement service can give you a correct assessment of the current condition of your solar panel and give estimates for any necessary repairs and replacements.
5. Noticeable Cracks and Water Damage Around
Even if you were unaware of it, one of the tell-tale signs that your home needs a new solar panel installation is noticeable cracks in the panels and water damage. This usually shows that the solar panel has been damaged over time due to exposure to the elements.
Further signs of water penetration and pooling of water around the panels. Any of these signs lead to a need for a solar panel replacement, as they can fail at any time due to wear and tear.
And if you ignore the noticeable cracks in your solar panels, you are putting yourself, your family, and your property at risk. Heat and pressure can cause larger cracks to develop, which can cause a decrease in power production and potentially lead to the panels becoming inoperable.
Also, cracked panels may become unstable or flimsy, becoming a safety hazard, especially during inclement weather. You may be at risk of electric shock if you try to do any DIY repair work on the cracked panel.
6. Evidence of Discoloration
If the panels appear to have a yellowed or hazy look, that could show that they are oxidizing. This discoloration weakens the panels and compromises their efficiency.
7. 10 or More Years Old
Solar panels are considered to be long-lasting, but they will eventually need to be replaced after ten or more years of use. So, be sure to stay up to date on the manufacturer’s warranty for the panels, as this will protect your investment and ensure that any problems with the system are handled promptly.
Solar Panel Replacement Is Entirely Acceptable
A Solar Panel Replacement is entirely acceptable, especially if your existing solar panel is aging. If you need to replace your panel, you should contact a local solar company to assess your options and move forward. Invest in solar energy today and start reducing your energy bill while helping the environment!
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