Solar energy is a wise investment for New Jersey homeowners looking to cut energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. But like any system, solar panels need regular attention to stay in top shape. Ignoring minor issues can lead to bigger, more costly problems down the road.

If you're wondering whether your solar panels are working as they should, this guide will walk you through the top 5 signs your solar panels may need repair and what to do about them.

1. Sudden Drop in Energy Output

One of the most obvious indicators of a problem is a noticeable decrease in your system's energy production. Most solar systems are connected to monitoring platforms where you can track daily and monthly performance. If your system was producing 30 kWh daily last month but suddenly dropped to 20 kWh with no change in weather or sunlight, that's a red flag.
Possible Causes:

Faulty inverter

Damaged panels
Wiring issues
Shading from new tree growth or debris

What to Do: Contact a New Jersey solar repair specialist to perform a full system diagnostic. They'll identify the root cause and restore your system's efficiency.

2. Visible Physical Damage to Panels

New Jersey experiences a range of weather conditions, including hail, snowstorms, wind, and heavy rains. These can take a toll on your solar equipment.

Take a moment to inspect your panels (from a safe distance or ground-level view). If you notice:

Cracks or chips in the glass
Discoloration or corrosion
Loose or broken mounting hardware

It's a good time to schedule a professional inspection.

Why It Matters:

Even minor damage can reduce your system's efficiency or lead to electrical issues. Damaged panels can also void your manufacturer's warranty if not addressed promptly.

3. Inverter Warning Lights or Error Messages

The inverter is the brain of your solar energy system. If it's not working properly, your panels can't convert sunlight into usable electricity. Modern inverters display error codes or red/yellow warning lights when something's wrong.

Common Issues:

Ground faults
Arc faults
Overvoltage
Temperature overload

Don't ignore inverter warnings, as they're usually an early sign of a system problem that could worsen.

What to Do: Call a certified solar technician in New Jersey to interpret the error codes and perform a system reset or repair.

4. Unusually High Electric Bills

If your utility bills are suddenly climbing and your solar system is supposed to offset that cost, something's off.

While seasonal changes and electricity usage can impact bills, a significant jump with no clear explanation could mean:

Your system is underperforming
A part of your array has stopped working
There's damage or disconnection in the wiring.

What to Do: Compare your system's production data with past months. If your output is down, schedule a solar performance check with a local repair specialist

5. Loose Wires or Exposed Cabling

Wiring issues are a common cause of system failure, especially in older installations or systems exposed to harsh New Jersey winters. If you notice the following:

Dangling or exposed wires
Rodent damage (especially from squirrels nesting under panels)
Corroded connectors

Then, it's not just an efficiency issue. It's a safety risk.

What to Do: This is a repair that must be handled by a licensed professional. Improper or DIY electrical work can be hazardous and may void your system warranty.

Why Timely Solar Repair Matters in New Jersey

New Jersey is one of the leading states in solar adoption thanks to its generous SREC program, net metering policies, and solar-friendly climate. But to get the most out of your solar investment, routine maintenance and timely repairs are essential.

Neglecting repairs can lead to:

Voided manufacturer warranties
Lower energy savings
Higher utility bills
Long-term equipment damage

Schedule Your Solar Panel Inspection Today

At Solar Repair Maintenance, we specialize in solar panel repair and maintenance in New Jersey. Whether you're in Cherry Hill, Princeton, Newark, or anywhere in between, our licensed technicians are here to help you get your system back to peak performance.

We offer:

Full system diagnostics
Panel and inverter repair
Critter guard installation
Preventative maintenance plans

Don't let small issues turn into costly repairs. If you've noticed any of the signs above, contact us today for a fast, professional inspection.

Top 5 Signs Your Solar Panels Need Repair in New Jersey