Need a solar panel repair or replacement? Here’s what to do

With the recent surge in solar renewables, South Africans are taking control of their own electricity supply.

Even though solar panels last a long time and don’t need much looking after, they still need maintenance, repairs or additions. Mostly, panels just need a simple cleaning now and then to make sure nothing like dirt or leaves is blocking the sunlight.

Inspect solar panels at least once a year, or after any severe weather events.

Sometimes, only one solar panel needs repair, but at other times, parts like inverters, batteries, or wires might need fixing or replacing.

What are the most common issues with solar panels in South Africa

The common sources of solar panel malfunctions in South Africa include:

1. Physical damage: Solar panels can get damaged by environmental factors such as hail, falling debris, or strong winds, which can lead to cracks, chips, or shattered glass on the solar panels.
2. Electrical issues: Faulty wiring due to loose or corroded connections, damaged wiring, or incorrect installation can cause electrical issues that reduce the energy production of solar panels.
3. Theft: Solar panel thefts have surged, with criminals posing as maintenance crews to steal and sell them on the thriving black market.
4. Compatibility issues: It's crucial that the new solar panels are compatible with the rest of the system to work properly.
5. Counterfeit and low-quality panels: The influx of counterfeit and poor-quality solar panels could lead to underperformance, breakdowns, and other technical issues.

How to go about solar panel repairs?

• Try to identify the issue: Conduct a visual inspection for any obvious damages like cracks, discoloration, or loose connections. Check the inverter display for error messages or red indicator lights.
• Check warranty and consult the provider: Review the warranty terms of your solar system components and determine if the issue is covered. The provider may fix the problem under warranty, provide troubleshooting guidance, or recommend a professional service technician.
• Hire a solar panel repair professional: If solar panels aren't within your comfort zone or expertise, it's best to seek help from solar panel repair professionals.

Not sure where to start?

You can begin by submitting a request for solar panel repair on Procompare.

Tell us about your project, and you will receive up to 6 quotes from top local solar panel repair companies, so you can compare the quotes and choose the best for you.

You are under no pressure to accept any offer and are free to check provider reviews before making a decision. You'll find ratings and reviews for professionals and companies all over South Africa on Procompare - all from real customers.

How much will solar panel repair or replacement cost me?

The cost of solar panel repair can vary significantly based on the nature and extent of the damage. For an exact price, it's best to request several quotes for your specific case and compare them.

There might be instances where repair is not possible or cost-effective, and you will need to replace the solar panels. The price for new solar panels ranges between R2000 and R3500 for panels with a capacity of 200-450 watts without the installation costs.