Can Solar Panels Be Repaired?

Most people into green energy often ask can solar panels be repaired. We can understand why this question would be so prevalent due to the costs to keep buying solar panels to replaced any that stop working for whatever reason. Consider that if solar panels are easily repaired, how much money you could save.

So, can solar panels be repaired? We will answer this question and a host of others to give you all the relevant information in one place. There are many questions constantly asked about solar panels and we are sure that individuals would appreciate having their concerns address all at once.

Can Solar Panels Be Repaired? – The Facts

Solar panels can be repaired, but before you try to repair them yourself it is important to understand how they work. The solar panel receives and stores the energy from the sun in its cells to convert it into electricity that you can use today or later. There are several different types of damage and ways to repair them, including: cracks, punctures, dents and scratches.

Some people may attempt to fix a solar panel themselves, but in most cases it is best to have the manufacturer fix the panel. Panels that have cracks are harder to repair as they will need the silicone and glass components necessary to replace the damaged one. Most people opt to change the solar panel instead of fixing due to the time and energy it takes to fix one.

Can A Damaged Solar Panel Be Repaired?

Yes, many solar panels can be successfully repaired. There are many types of damages that happen to solar panels and they can be broken down into three main categories: Cracked panels, punctured cells and fluid leaks.

The first thing to consider is the amount of damage to the cell; if just one or two solar cells are damaged, your system will probably still function well enough for most consumers. It is possible to repair a damaged solar panel if the cracks are not too deep, but you would need to replace it with a new panel sooner rather than later.

How Do You Repair A Broken Solar Panel?

When your solar panel breaks or stops working after years of use, you may be tempted to replace it altogether. However, repairing the panel is sometimes much cheaper and equally as effective as buying a new one depending on the situation. Simply follow these three steps to repair your broken solar panels!

1. Check the solar panel for cracks and other damage that may have caused the breakage.

2. Apply a thin coat of epoxy glue to the crack or split, using a toothpick to spread it evenly along both sides.

3. Wait until the glue dries completely before applying more epoxy around it.

4. Place a clean piece of paper over the spot and rub with 220-grit sandpaper, set by a table fan aimed at your work area to speed up drying time.

If the issue is related to the wires and not the silicone or glass you can follow these simple steps:

1. Unplug the solar panel from it’s connection.

2. Inspect for broken wires.

3. Gather replacement parts needed to connect the wires: wire strippers and crimp connectors are available at most hardware stores.

4. Strip enough insulation from each wire so it will be long enough to reach the next connection point.

5. Attach the wires together by crimping them into place, after an inspection to ensure they are in correct position with respect to polarity (positive/negative).

How Do You Take Apart A Solar Panel?

There are many ways to take apart a solar panel, but we recommend that you use an anti-static wrist strap when working on electronics. Not only will this protect the electrical components from static electricity, which could damage them, it will also protect you from electric shocks if any of the circuits are live.

Turn off the power system and remove the control panel. Remove the screws that hold the metal frame in place using a screwdriver or the required tool that matches. Take apart metal frame, glass panel and wires by removing screws with the necessary tool.

How To Fix Shattered Solar Panel

The best solution to repairing a shattered solar panel is replacement. However, if the damaged unit is too large, or the damaged area is near an access panel, it can be difficult to replace the entire panel. In these situations we recommend replacing just the damaged area, as this will be considerably less expensive than replacing the entire panel.

If the glass is shattered but still in place, it may be wise to clean if possible and tape the entire area surface to keep the glass from falling a apart. once done, you can disassemble the panel to remove the shattered glass. Once this is done, you can replace the the broken panel with a new one.

What Happens When Solar Panels Are Damaged?

If your solar panels are damaged, you will find that there is a significant impact on the performance of your system. This can considerably reduce the amount of energy produced. In addition, the appearance of your home or business will be compromised by the presence of these damaged panels.

This can make a big difference in how much money you save on your electric bill, if you are grid tied. Not only will your system not produce as much energy, but the panels will also be unsightly and could potentially lower the value of your home or business.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Broken Solar Panel?

DIYers may be surprised to learn that, depending on the type of damage, many solar panels can be repaired for little or no cost. The key is knowing how to diagnose the problem and making sure you don’t do more harm than good. If the problem isn’t your fault, you may not need to try to repair the panels. On average fixing a solar panel is about $200, but it could be more or less depending on the issue.

A broken solar panel can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be a financial disaster. Choosing the right repair approach, understanding what is covered under warranty and then managing your expectations after the job is complete are key to getting back to business as usual.

Final Thoughts On Can Solar Panels Be Repaired

Can solar panels be repaired? We are sure by now that you realize that repairing a solar panel is possible. You should weigh your options, so you would know if its cheaper to fix yourself, get it done professionally or buy a new solar panel. Many people opt to buy new panels, hence so many used panels on the market.