How Do I Know If My Solar Panels Are Working?

This is part of our complete guide to how solar panels work.

So, you’ve embraced the solar lifestyle, enjoying the satisfaction that your solar panels are generating clean energy and reducing your electricity bills. But how can you be sure that your solar panels are truly working efficiently and you're not losing out on potential energy savings? It's important to have a maintenance routine that keeps things running smoothly. Here's a guide to help you understand how to monitor your solar panels’ performance so you can maximise their energy generation.

Monitor Your Inverter Display

The inverter is like the nerve centre of your solar system, converting energy from your panels into usable electricity for your home. Its display panel contains a wealth of information showing you how much electricity is being generated and warning you of any problems.

Make it a habit to check the display regularly and look for error messages that might indicate an internal issue or disruptions in the energy conversion. Familiarise yourself with your owner’s manual to interpret these messages. If figures seem off or you notice error messages that you can't decode, call a professional. They can identify if it's a wiring issue, a faulty inverter or something else altogether.

Compare Your Electricity Bills

One of the clearest indicators of your solar panels’ performance is the difference in your electricity bills before and after installation. Pre-solar, your electricity consumption was entirely reliant on the grid. Now your solar panels should be offsetting your energy usage, reducing your reliance on conditional power. If your bills haven't decreased significantly, you may need to dig deeper. Has your energy consumption increased? Have there been cloudy days that impacted solar output? If these don't explain the discrepancy, it might be time to investigate your solar setup.

Review Your Monitoring System

Modern solar systems include sophisticated monitoring tools, often accessible via an app or a web platform. These tools provide real-time data on how much electricity your system generates daily, monthly, and annually. Regularly checking this data can highlight trends in energy production and alert you to any deviations from the norm. For instance, a sudden drop in output could point to a wiring issue, dirty panels or problems with the inverter. Having this information at your fingertips means you can catch issues early and optimise your panel's performance.

Check the Solar Meter

Another useful tool is the solar meter, which measures the energy produced by your panels. This device can help you monitor the efficiency of your solar panels and identify if production has plateaued or declined unexpectedly. A consistent reading might suggest your system is working optimally, while an unexplained drop could mean the panels are shading, have dirt buildup or are suffering from another issue. By keeping track of the meter’s readings, you can create a record of your solar panels’ performance over time.

Inspect for Shading or Dirt

Over time, even a little shading or dirt can reduce solar output. Nearby trees might have grown, casting shadows that weren't there before. A layer of dust, leaves, bird droppings or pollen can also block sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells, hampering energy generation. Make a point of visually inspecting your panels, occasionally clearing off any debris and trimming any trees or bushes that may have grown too close to your rooftop. If you're uncomfortable with heights or unsure about cleaning techniques, consulting a professional can get the job done safely.

Consider Professional Services

Solar panels are designed to last for decades, but they do require occasional maintenance to stay in tip-top shape. Every so often it's wise to schedule a professional service to inspect your system. An expert can identify any faults, poor connections or hidden issues that could be affecting your panels’ efficiency. They can also clean the panels properly and provide practical advice for maintaining optimal performance. Think of it as an annual checkup for your solar system, making sure it's performing as expected and not facing any potential issues that could worsen over time.

Understand Your Systems Benchmark

Every solar system comes with an estimated energy production figure based on its capacity, location and expected sunlight. Your installer should have given you the benchmark, which can serve as a helpful guide when monitoring your panels. Compare this benchmark with the actual production data you collect through your monitoring tools or inverter display. If your system's output consistently falls below the expected levels, it might be time to investigate potential causes such as shading, faulty connections or panel degradation.

Conclusion

Monitoring your solar panels doesn't have to be a complicated chore. With these easy steps, you can confidently verify that your system is operating efficiently, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint. Keep an eye on your inverter, compare your bills and regularly inspect your panels for shading or dirt buildup. By being proactive, you can identify and address any issues before they snowball into significant problems. If in doubt, get a professional to check your system and provide advice. Remember, your solar panels are a long-term investment, so giving them a little TLC can go a long way in keeping them working properly.

With over 30 years of experience, MPC Energy Ltd has firmly established itself as a leading provider of home energy improvements across the UK. We specialise in insulation, heating systems and eco-friendly solutions, offering high-quality products, exceptional service and outstanding craftsmanship. Our nationwide services are geared towards boosting home efficiency via the Energy Company Obligations Scheme and other programmes. Get in touch with our Clydebank office in West Dunbartonshire for energy assessments and installations tailored to suit any budget.

For more information about our services, contact us via our website or call to speak to one of our energy consultants at +44 141 951 7887.