Potential Induced Degradation (PID) Explained: Causes and Fixes
Potential induced degradation (PID) is a voltage-driven loss of photovoltaic module performance caused by leakage currents between solar cells and grounded module hardware. Depending on cell design and materials, PID can create cell shunting, surface polarization, or passivation loss, reducing power, fill factor, and sometimes open-circuit voltage. Recovery may be possible when the mechanism is […]
120% Rule Busbar Violation Fix: Choose the Right Option
A 120% rule busbar violation occurs when permitted source breaker ratings exceed the busbar allowance under NEC 705.12, commonly used for utility-interactive solar and battery systems. The usual fixes are a documented main-breaker derating, a compliant supply-side connection, a listed power control system, a different panel configuration, or a service-panel upgrade. Key Facts at a […]
Rapid Shutdown Device Not Working NEC 690.12: Safe Fixes
A rapid shutdown device not working under NEC 690.12 is a life-safety fault, not merely a solar-production problem. Stop work and keep people away if the system fails to reduce exposed PV conductors to the required voltage within 30 seconds. Homeowners may check alarms, switches, and displayed codes, but energized DC testing and roof repairs […]
Workmanship Warranty vs Equipment Warranty Explained: Who Pays?
A workmanship warranty covers defects in a contractor’s installation, while an equipment warranty covers defects in the manufactured product. The installer generally pays for corrective labor when poor installation caused the failure; the manufacturer generally supplies a replacement part when the product itself failed, but labor, diagnosis, shipping, and access costs may remain your responsibility. […]
Solar Monitoring App Not Updating Data: Fix It Fast
A solar monitoring app not updating data usually indicates a break between the inverter’s data logger, internet connection, cloud platform, or mobile app, rather than failed solar panels. Check the manufacturer’s service status, compare the app with the web portal, verify the gateway network, and reboot only the approved AC-side monitoring equipment before arranging repairs. […]
Solar Panels Producing DC but No AC Output: Fix It Safely
Solar panels producing DC but no AC output usually means the photovoltaic array is generating voltage, while the inverter is not converting or delivering that energy. The most common causes are a grid outage, tripped AC protection, an inverter fault, insufficient DC operating voltage, a ground fault, or a failed AC connection. Do not open […]
Solar System Damage After Lightning Strike Checklist: Fix Safely
A solar system damage after lightning strike checklist should begin with personal safety, evidence collection, and professional electrical testing, not repeated resets. A nearby or direct strike can damage modules, surge protective devices, inverters, wiring, grounding, and batteries while leaving the array visually intact. Key facts at a glance Never inspect rooftop PV equipment during […]
Solar Panel Warranty Claim Documentation Checklist Guide
A solar panel warranty claim documentation checklist should contain the purchase and installation contract, warranty terms, equipment identifiers, system diagrams, monitoring records, photographs, maintenance evidence, and diagnostic reports. The strongest claim links a specific component to a covered defect, establishes ownership and warranty dates, and separates panel failure from shading, soiling, wiring, inverter, or installation […]
Solar Inverter Smells Like Burning Plastic: Shut It Down Safely
A solar inverter that smells like burning plastic should be treated as an electrical fault until a qualified professional proves otherwise. The odor can come from overheated cable insulation, a loose high-current connection, electrical arcing, blocked cooling, an overloaded battery system, or a failed internal component. Stop normal operation and arrange an inspection. Key Facts […]
Off-Grid Battery Bank Voltage Imbalance: Diagnose and Fix It
Off-grid battery bank voltage imbalance occurs when series-connected batteries or internal cells reach different states of charge, capacities, or temperatures. The condition reduces usable bank capacity because the weakest unit reaches its safe voltage limit first, while repeated charging can overcharge stronger units and accelerate sulfation, electrolyte loss, lithium BMS trips, or permanent cell damage. […]