TL;DR: 

Protect your solar investment! This guide covers everything from identifying common solar panel issues (cracks, energy drops) and performing simple DIY checks (like multimeter tests) to understanding when to call a professional. Learn about typical repair costs, warranty coverage, and the impact of Arizona's unique weather and wildlife. Discover how regular cleaning and maintenance can extend your system's 25-30 year lifespan, ensuring continuous savings and preventing costly damage.

Arizona’s bright skies promise big solar savings, but unseen damage from storms or squirrels can chip away at your investment. Understanding solar panel repair can be your best defense.

Solar panels are built to last and come with a 25 to 30-year warranty. However, over time, they can experience common issues affecting their performance. 

If you are facing issues like a sudden energy drop or warning lights, there is a high chance your solar system needs repair. Luckily, minor issues can be easily fixed at home, and for others, you can call a nearby professional solar repair expert like Sunny Energy RX.

In this handy guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about solar panel repair, from finding root causes to running simple tests and knowing exactly when to call in solar repair services. Let’s start with the basics!

Don’t let hidden problems drain your solar investment. Let Sunny Energy RX help to diagnose and fix the issue. 

What Is Solar Panel Repair, and Why Is It Important?

Solar panel repair is the process of fixing or replacing the damaged parts of the solar system in order to maintain its performance. 

For homeowners, timely solar panel repair is important because it helps to keep the system running smoothly. Here are the key benefits of timely solar repairs:

• Restore peak performance: Dirt, cracks, or loose parts can cut your panel’s output by up to 30 percent. Solar panel repair helps restore peak performance every day.  Peak performance will allow you to maximize your savings with solar.

• Prevents safety hazards: Damaged solar panels or loose wires can spark electrical shorts or fires. Regularly checking them helps to keep your roof safe and helps to avoid any surprising risks.

• Extends the life of your solar panels: Early solar panel repair also helps to stop the damage from spreading further and keeps your system lasting longer. 

Now that you understand the importance of solar panel repair, let's look at some common signs you will notice if your panels need repair.

What Are the Common Signs Your System Needs Repairs?

Most common signs your solar system may need repairs include:

• Visible cracks or discoloration on the panel surface

• A noticeable drop in energy production without any seasonal change

• Error codes, warning lights, and unusual sounds from the inverter.

If you notice any of these things,  a closer look at your solar panels is necessary. Don’t worry—you don’t have to be a technician—you just need to know what to look for.

What Does a Damaged Solar Panel Look Like?

A damaged solar panel has clearly visible signs that you can catch without needing any tools:

• Spiderweb Cracks: Cracks are hairline splits or large breaks in the solar panel glass or the underlying solar cells. 

• Discoloration: Yellowing, browning, or uneven shading on the panel surface. 

• Loose or exposed wires: Damaged or exposed wiring can be a safety hazard. 

• Delamination: Peeling the solar panel's top layers.

We do not recommend it, but if you are comfortable with safely climbing onto your roof, take a good look with your own eyes, or grab some binoculars to scan each panel from a short distance. 

If you spot something odd, seek the help of a solar repair company. Here are a few common terms that might help you explain the issue to them.

Once you've identified visible damage, understanding the terminology associated with specific issues can be helpful.

What Are Solar Panel Discoloration and Delamination?

Discoloration shows yellow, brown, or patchy areas on panels. Delamination is the protective layers peeling, letting water damage cells and cut power.

What Are Solar Panel Hotspots and Diode Failures?

Hotspots are small areas that heat up when panels have uneven light or dirt. Diode failure blocks bypass current, causing heat buildup.

What Are Microcracks and Snail Trails on Solar Panels?

Microcracks are tiny fractures in solar cells that reduce power over time. Snail trails are dark lines formed by these cracks, which reduce the output. Once you’ve spotted the visible damage, you can further test if your panels are still generating power. 

Noticed a warning sign or complete failure? Let Sunny Energy RX diagnose and fix it before it gets worse.

How to Test If a Solar Panel Is Working?

Unless you are a licensed and practicing electrician, please do not attempt to test the electrical properties of your solar system. You can rather call a professional, like Sunny Energy RX, to perform electrical tests safely.  

High DC voltage and amperage from a solar system are enough to cause permanent physical harm or death. Stay safe and leave it to a professional. If you need to find a good solar repair company, you can start by searching for ‘solar panel repair near me in Arizona.’

Sometimes, even the whole solar panel system completely stops working. How will you identify it? Let’s learn.

How to Tell If a Solar Panel Has Completely Failed?

A fully failed panel shows zero voltage on a meter, even in bright sunlight. We may also see a warning or error code on your inverter. Since panels are wired together, if one unit is dead, it can sometimes cut the flow for its entire row. 

If you spot a complete solar system failure, don’t try to test the panels on your own. Rather, call a trusted solar panel repair expert in your area and schedule an on-site repair. 

What Causes the Need for Solar Panel Repairs in Arizona?

You might wonder why your panels need timely fixing and repairs in the first place. In Arizona, most people install panels on their rooftops. There, they face high heat, dust storms, and hail. Plus, birds can chew on wires. 

Also, hidden manufacturing defects or simple wear and tear in wiring and mounts can wear down panels. These factors all cause the need to repair solar panels. Let’s understand each of them in detail:

How Does Weather Damage Solar Panels? 

Severe weather events like storms, hail, and heat can easily damage solar panels. Also, when temperatures shift from hot to cold, tiny cracks can appear inside the cells.

If you live in Phoenix, dust storms can leave sand that scratches glass and can block sunlight. Similarly, if you live in Flagstaff, heavy snow and ice can sit on your panels for days, cutting power until you clear them. Over time, these damages can reduce the output and lifespan of the panels. Now, let's understand how can you resolve it?

How to Clean Solar Panels?

You should start by checking your panels for cracks in the glass, loose mounts or signs of water getting in. If you spot any damage, call an expert to repair it first. 

Once it looks fine, you can clean your panels after a storm or heavy snowfall using water and a soft brush. Overall, just think of your panels like your car windshield and wipe away grit so they keep working their best.

How Often Do Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned?

Generally, solar panels need cleaning about once a year to avoid energy loss of 5-10%. Airborne dust, rainfall, and panel tilt affect the cleaning frequency. If you live in dusty areas like Phoenix, you can consider cleaning them more frequently (2-4 times a year). 

You can also consider hiring a solar panel cleaning service once a year. Want a quick panel check and wash? Get in touch with Sunny Energy RX.

Can Animal Activity Cause Solar Panel Issues? 

The answer is a big yes. Animals like birds, squirrels, or rats can chew on wires or build nests around them. They can also leave droppings on your panels that block sunlight.

In fact, if these droppings are acidic, you could lose between 46 and 89 percent of your power. To prevent this, you can consider installing mesh guards or a pest control service.

If weather and wildlife leave your system alone, sometimes there are hidden manufacturing defects affecting the performance. 

Are Manufacturing Defects a Common Problem? 

While manufacturing defects are not very common, sometimes they can occur due to rough handling during shipping or in the production line. This can lead to tiny cracks in the cells or weak solder joints. 

Also, poor sealing at the edges may let moisture seep in, leading to corrosion or hot spots. Thankfully, most brands offer a 10 to 25-year warranty on their system, So if you catch a defect early, you can have the panel fixed or replaced at no extra cost.

Regular solar panel maintenance and inspections can help you prevent these issues early on and extend the lifespan of your solar panel system.

The Solar Panel Repair Process: What Are Your Options?

If your solar panels aren’t working properly, you might be wondering whether they can be fixed or if you need a full replacement. 

Can Damaged Solar Panels Be Repaired?

The good news is that most damaged solar panels can be easily repaired, depending on the extent and type of damage. If you see minor problems like hairline cracks in the glass, you can easily get them fixed using a clear resin.

But when the silicon cells beneath the glass are broken or the outer backing is torn, a simple DIY won’t work. In those cases, you’ll have to search for ‘solar repair near me’ and have your panels replaced. Now the question arises, will a cracked panel work properly?

Will a Solar Panel Work If It’s Cracked?

A tiny crack might not stop your panel from working entirely, but it can reduce efficiency and worsen over time. However, large cracks can expose wiring, leading to moisture damage or even electrical hazards. If you notice cracks, it’s best to have it sealed or call a solar repair company to assess the risk.

Now, before you grab your sealant, there’s one more reason to act: safety.

Are Damaged Solar Panels a Fire Hazard?

In some rare cases, damaged solar panels can overheat, especially if wiring is exposed or bypass diodes fail. Global data shows far fewer than 1 in 1,000 systems ever burn. Thankfully, most systems have built-in safety features to shut things down if a fault appears.

Still, ignoring major damage increases the risk of sparks and fire. If you suspect a serious issue, shut off the system and contact a solar repair technician immediately.

When you know a repair is due, your first thought is probably, how much will it cost, and will you pay it all? Let’s uncover.

How Much Do Solar Panel Repairs Cost and Who Pays?

If you need on-site repairs in Arizona, you can expect to pay roughly $400 to $1,000. However, these costs can vary slightly between major cities like Phoenix or Tucson and more rural parts of the state due to travel time and differences in labor rates.

• Minor fixes (wiring, loose connections): $150–$400

• Panel repairs (cracked glass, delamination): $400–$1,000

• Inverter replacement: $1,000+ (varies by brand and labor)

Also, keep in mind that labor rates, your location, and even the age of your system can push your solar repair price up or down.

Who Pays for Damaged Solar Panels?

The answer to this question depends on a few other questions: What caused the damage? How old are your solar panels? And exactly which components are affected?

1. Manufacturer Warranty—Covers Defects (10–25 Years): If your panels stopped working because of a manufacturing defect, like faulty cells or premature wear, the manufacturer will cover replacements under warranty, excluding labor. 

2. Installer Warranty—Covers Their Mistakes (Usually 1–10 Years): If wiring, mounts, or other installation errors led to the problem, your solar installer’s workmanship warranty should cover the fix. These warranties typically last only for 1 to 10 years.

3. Home Insurance—Covers Accidents & Animal Damage:  If something like a storm, falling branches, or even squirrels chewing through wires caused the damage, your homeowners’ insurance will likely cover the repairs. 

Does Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Solar Repairs Caused by Animal Damage?

Most policies cover some damage caused by wild animals. However, damages caused by birds, squirrels, or pests are rarely covered. To file a claim for covered damage, you can document the damage with photos and videos and directly contact your insurance provider.

We get it; sometimes you want to save a few bucks by fixing things yourself. Let’s see which repairs you can do and which need an expert, so you stay safe and avoid bigger problems.

Should You Repair Solar Panels Yourself or Call a Professional?

While some minor solar panel issues, like cleaning dirty panels or tightening loose bolts, can be fixed at home. Trying to fix electrical problems or damaged panels on your own can be risky. Here’s a simple breakdown of when you should or shouldn’t attempt it.

When Is It Time to Call a Solar Repair Company? 

When you notice a sudden drop in energy production, error codes on the inverter, or any physical damage to the panels, you must call a solar panel repair company. Here are a few top signs you need professional help:

• Your panels have visible cracks, burns, or water damage.

• The system shuts down unexpectedly or produces much less power.

• You smell burning or see sparks near the inverter.

• Monitoring tools show errors you can’t troubleshoot.

• You haven't had a professional inspection in a long while.

Can an Electrician Service Solar Panels?

A regular electrician can handle problems related to wiring, but a solar system repair requires specialized knowledge. Certified solar panel repair companies like Sunny Energy RX have professional technicians who diagnose and resolve the issue.

So, if your issue is panel-specific, like hotspots or inverter failures, always pick solar panel repair experts over a general electrician.

Not sure if it’s just wiring or a panel issue? Let our NABCEP-certified team run a free panel check today. Contact Sunny Energy RX.

Working With a Professional Solar Repair Service

Working with a professional solar repair company helps you to save time and ensure the job is done right. So, before you call them in, here are a few things you must know:

Who Offers Solar Panel Repair Services?

Solar repair services are provided by specialized solar repair companies. These services typically include routine checkups, solar panels, and roof repair after hail or storm damage, solar inverter repair, diagnostics, etc. They are generally provided by:

• Your original installer: Your installer can fix defects or replace parts under warranty at little to no cost. If your original installer no longer services your panels, you can reach out to independent companies like Sunny Energy RX.

• Local specialists: Smaller, regional companies can help fix area-specific issues like weather patterns or roof types. 

• National chains: Broad coverage and 24/7 emergency call-outs when you need fast help.

How to Prepare for a Solar Panel Service Appointment?

To prepare for your solar panel service appointment, you must check a few things:

• Trim branches or move garden furniture 

• Note when the problem started, and check for any error messages

• Have your warranty and system paperwork ready, if you have it

• Click photos of visible damage or warning lights 

With these steps done, you’ll be ready for the visit. Now, let’s know what happens during a professional solar repair visit.

What Happens During a Professional Solar Repair Visit?

During a professional solar repair visit, the technician will inspect and pull system logs to find issues. Then they may test each panel and the inverter for voltage and current output.

Next, they will perform the repairs (such as sealing cracks, replacing wiring, swapping modules, etc). In the end, they will tell you what was fixed, before-and-after readings, and provide tips for keeping your system at its best.

With the basics covered, you might wonder how deeper damage gets handled. Next, let’s look at how you handle full panel and part replacements.

Replacing Solar Panels and Components

Most of the time, minor panel damage can be repaired quickly by your service provider. But when a crack or fault goes deeper, you might need to replace a few components or sometimes even the whole panel. Let’s dive in.

What Should You Do With Broken Solar Panels?

If a panel has minor cracks or loose parts, you can easily restore it with a simple repair. When damage is too severe, panel replacement is the best choice. You can directly call a solar repair company to replace panels and recycle them. Never toss solar panels in the trash. You can check local rules for electronic waste to make sure you dispose of it the right way.

Can Solar Panel Damage Spread to Other Panels?

In most cases, a single damaged panel doesn’t ruin the whole system. However, it can cause an electrical imbalance that can strain other components and reduce overall efficiency.

So, if you suspect a damaged panel, isolating it with the help of a technician can prevent further issues. Now, if only one panel is damaged, can you replace just that one?

Can You Replace One Solar Panel Without Replacing the Whole System?

The short answer is yes. Solar systems are designed to be modular, which means you can usually replace just one panel if needed. However, there are a few things you should check:

• The new panel should match the same voltage, current, and power rating as the rest.

• Mixing different makes or ratings can cut your overall output and put extra stress on your inverter.

• If your panels are over 15 to 20 years old or out of warranty, you might choose to replace the whole string.

What Is Involved in a Solar Panel Removal and Reinstallation Service?

Are you planning a roof renovation? Or maybe a new addition? If your solar panels are in the way, don't try to move them yourself! Solar panel removal and reinstallation (R&R) is a specialized job that requires a professional touch. These professionals will:

• First, safely shut down your system. 

• Then, carefully remove each panel and its mounting hardware, labeling everything so it goes back exactly right. 

• Next, they will secure your panels using padded racks. 

• After your roof work's done, they'll reinstall panels with fresh seals and test to ensure they're performing just like before.

Can I Replace a Solar Panel Myself?

Although it is possible to replace solar panels, we strongly advise not to do it. Replacing panels isn’t like changing a light bulb. You need electrical training, proper tools, and safety gear for working at height.

In many states, only licensed electricians or certified solar technicians can touch your solar panel system. So, for your safety, it’s best to call for solar system repair. 

If you’re all set on replacing just one panel, let’s see how much it will cost. 

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Solar Panel?

Solar panel replacement costs vary depending on various factors such as the type of panels you are using, labor costs in your area, etc. 

• Panel Cost: Solar panels can cost between $200 to $500, depending on brand and wattage.

• Labor Cost: Labor cost for removal and installation can vary between $150 to $400.

• Additional Fees: If your roof is steep or hard to access, you can expect extra charges.

Want to know your panel repair cost? Contact Sunny Energy RX and get free quotes.

Proactive Maintenance and Long-Term System Health

Solar panel repair becomes necessary primarily when people don’t monitor their panels regularly. If you want to keep your solar panels working, you need to keep an eye on them and catch issues before they worsen. Let's learn how you can maintain them properly.

How to Prevent Recurring Solar Panel Issues?

You can prevent recurring solar panel issues by following a few steps:

• Check your panels thoroughly at least twice a year.

• Look for minor issues like loose wires, cracked glass, or built-up dirt.

• Fit mesh or cutter guards around the edges to keep birds and rodents away.

• Make sure panels aren’t too close to the edge and have a good tilt to let the water run off.

• Remove any dust, pollen, and debris from panels using a sponge or mop.

• Use your solar app to track energy output and spot drops early.

Once you’ve set up these checks, you can focus on the performance review.

How Do I Get My Solar Panels Checked for Performance Issues?

To check for performance issues, you must keep an eye on your inverter’s readout or mobile app (suggested by the installer). They will help you spot any dips in output. If you spot a drop of more than 10 percent, you can call a nearby solar panel repair company for a performance test.

Having spotted the issue, you’ll often find yourself juggling quick fixes and warranty rules.

Handling Tricky Solar Panel Repairs and Warranty Hurdles

While minor solar panel repairs are easy to handle, some situations require extra hurdles like warranty claims and paperwork.

What to Do If Your Solar Panel Warranty Is Denied?

Warranty claims sometimes get rejected, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. If your claim gets rejected, firstly review the reason for the denial. Most of the time, it’s just missing paperwork.

If the manufacturer says the damage isn’t covered, you can ask for a detailed explanation. Next, you can take a second opinion from other independent solar panel repair companies operating in your area.

For example, if you’re in Arizona, you might search for “solar panel repair Phoenix” or “solar repair in Arizona” to find a reliable local company and take their help.

Facing a denied claim? Let Sunny Energy RX review your case. We work directly with most panel makers, so we can speed up your claim.

What Happens If You Ignore Solar Panel Damage?

Ignoring solar panel damage can save money for a while, but it can lead to bigger problems. If you have cracked or damaged panels, they can lose efficiency over time, sometimes dropping output by 20% or more. 

• Your panels make less power over time, so you pay more on your electric bill.

• Small cracks can grow bigger, turning a small fix into a costly one.

• Exposed wires can spark, which can cause a fire.

• Water can get in and break your inverter, leading to more repair costs.

• Damaged panels can shorten the life of your whole system.

• Ignoring problems can void your warranty, so you might pay for everything yourself.

Before you head up on the roof, here are the tools and steps to follow in order to keep yourself safe.

Understanding Tools, Monitoring, and Reports

Beyond visual inspection of your solar panels or monitoring data analysis, inspecting your solar panels on your own can be risky. Your solar professional will have the necessary tools, training, and experience to do it correctly

What Tools Are Needed for Basic Solar Panel Inspection?

Tools needed for inspecting solar panels include

• A multimeter to measure voltage and current 

• An infrared camera to detect hotspots

• Clamp meter for measuring current without disconnecting wires.

• Insulated gloves and safety glasses to keep yourself protected.

For further inspection, you will need advanced tools. You can leave the electrical testing to professionals; they use multimeters, IV curve tracers, insulation testers, etc., to diagnose the issues more deeply. 

After you get your panels checked, you will get an inspection report. 

What Does a Solar Panel Inspection Report Include?

Your solar panel inspection report will include:

• Panel condition (cracks, discoloration, loose mounts)

• Wiring and connection checks

• Inverter and meter performance

• Recommended repairs or maintenance

This report helps you during warranty claims and future troubleshooting. You should keep your past inspection records to help technicians diagnose problems faster.

Beyond Solar Panel Repair: Final Thoughts on Keeping Your System Healthy

Your solar panels are built to handle Arizona’s intense sun, but a little attention keeps them at peak performance. You can handle basic cleaning and simple fixes yourself, but when issues go beyond what you can manage, you’ll want professional support.

If you need a reliable solar repair in Arizona, Sunny Energy RX is here to help. Our local Arizona team handles everything from panel repairs to warranty claims even for orphaned solar systems. Contact us today for friendly, no‑pressure assistance!

In case you missed anything, here’s a quick recap of the key points.

Still Have Questions? Here are a few FAQ’s on Solar Panel Repair

1. Can I clean my solar panels myself?
Yes, you can clean panels yourself with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. Just make sure to follow safety steps and avoid harsh sprays to protect the glass.

2. Do I have to turn my solar panels off to clean them?
Yes, you must shut off your inverter or breaker before cleaning to prevent an electric shock.

3. Does rain clean solar panels?
Rain can wash away loose dust and light debris, but it won’t remove stuck-on grime or bird droppings. Occasional manual cleaning still keeps the output high.

4. Can a solar panel be repaired?
Yes, solar panels can be easily repaired for issues like small cracks, diode failures, and loose wiring. However, major glass or frame damage usually means replacement. Just search solar panel repair near me to find local professionals.

5. How much do solar panel repairs cost?
On average, solar panel repair services range from $400–$1,000 per panel. The overall cost depends on various factors like the extent of damage, labor charges, etc. For example, solar panel repair in Phoenix, you might find slightly lower rates if you compare with solar repair Glendale providers.

6. How much is it to replace one solar panel?
The cost to replace a solar panel in the USA is between $200 and $550, plus labor charges. To get exact quotes, you can search for solar panel repair Mesa and compare replacement estimates from different installers.

7. How to tell if a solar panel has failed?
If a panel shows zero output on your monitoring portal or multimeter, it’s failed. Check for error codes on your inverter and visual damage.

8. What does a damaged solar panel look like?
You might see cracks, delamination, burn marks, or snail trails. Discoloration or bubbling on cells also signals internal damage needing repair.

9. What happens if one solar panel fails?
A failed panel can pull down its string’s voltage, reducing the output of the whole solar system. If it happens, you may see alerts on your inverter or a sudden drop in production.

10. What is a common defect on a solar panel?
Microcracks from hail or seasonal change are a common defect on solar panels. They slowly reduce efficiency and can worsen into hotspots if not addressed on time.

11. What should I do if my solar panels are not working?
If your solar panels are not working, you can check visually for damage and inform your original installer. If you’re in Arizona, try Solar Repair in Arizona to find specialists. You can call independent service providers like Sunny Energy RX if your original installer is no longer in business.

12. What to do with broken solar panels?
Contact solar panel repair services to evaluate the damage. If repairable, they’ll fix the panel. If not, they’ll replace and recycle it as per environmental guidelines.

13. How do I get my solar panels checked?
To get your solar panels checked, you can search for ‘solar repair Chandler,’ ‘solar panel repair Mesa, solar repair Pinal County, or simply ‘solar repair near me’ and contact local solar repair companies. They’ll perform on-site inspections and provide a report.

14. How much does a solar panel inspection cost?
Solar panel inspection can cost around $100–$250 in the US. Prices depend on other factors like system size, location, etc.

15. Is professional solar panel cleaning worth it?
Yes, experts use proper tools and safety gear, clean hard-to-reach areas, and spot damage early. You can consider professional solar panel cleaning once a year to prevent long-term issues.

16. What is the life expectancy of a solar panel?
Most panels last 25–30 years before output drops below 80%. Regular maintenance and timely solar panel repair services help you reach or exceed that lifespan.

17. What percentage of solar panels fail?
About 1–2% of panels develop issues needing warranty claims. Roughly 3–5% of those claims get denied without proper maintenance records or documentation.

18. Can a broken solar panel still work?
Sometimes, a broken panel with minor cracks may still generate power, but the output drops. You can take the help of a solar repair company to check it.