Skip to main content

Solar Panel Faults - Common Types and Causes

Solar Panel Faults - Common Types and Causes


Solar panels are a popular and efficient source of renewable energy that can last for decades. However, like any other technology, they are not immune to faults. Identifying and fixing faults in solar panels is essential to ensure their long-term functionality. In this article, we will explore the common types of solar panel faults, their causes, and how to prevent them.

Solar Panel Faults: Common Types

Hot Spots
A hot spot is a concentrated area of high temperature on a solar panel, usually across a single cell. It occurs when a section of the panel fails to convert solar energy into electricity and instead absorbs it, causing heating. Hot spots can lead to panel damage, reduce efficiency, and in extreme cases, potentially start a fire.

PID (Potential Induced Degradation)
PID is an electrical phenomenon that causes a significant drop in the output power of a solar module panel. It occurs when a voltage difference develops between the solar cells and the grounded frame, leading to a leakage current. PID can be caused by environmental factors such as high humidity, temperature, and voltage. It can also be as a result of poor manufacturing quality control.

Broken or Damaged Cells
Broken or damaged solar cells can significantly reduce the efficiency of a solar panel. External factors such as hailstorms, debris, and excessive wind can lead to cracks or breaks in the cell covering. Broken cells can also cause hot spots, leading to further damage and may spred to neighbouring cells.

Causes Explained
The common causes of solar panel faults are from environmental factors, manufacturing defects, and poor installation. Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and voltage can cause PID and hot spots. Manufacturing defects such as faulty cells, inadequate and faulty soldering, and poor connections can lead to broken or damaged cells. Poor installation, including improper wiring, incorrect spacing, and insufficient support, can lead to panel damage and reduced efficiency.

Preventing solar panel faults involves regular maintenance and thermal inspection, proper installation, and the use of high-quality components is paramount. Regular cleaning, monitoring, and timely repairs can help prevent hot spots and the development of module failure, PID, and broken cells. Proper installation by qualified professionals can ensure the optimal performance and longevity of solar panels systems. Choosing high-quality components such as cells, wiring, and inverters can also prevent faults developing.

Aerial inspections by drones equipped with thermal cameras and in the hands of certified thermographers, finding and reporting these common faults is striaghtforward and cost effective.

Identifying and fixing solar panel faults is crucial to ensuring their long-term functionality and efficiency. Hot spots, PID, and broken or damaged cells are common types of solar panel faults caused by environmental factors, manufacturing defects, and poor installation. By following simple guidelines, and ensuring regular thermal inspections, solar panel owners can enjoy clean and sustainable energy for years to come.

#CommonSolarModulefaults #detectingsolarpanelfaultswiththermalcamera #dronethermalinspections #SolarpanelFaults


https://www.dronemediaimaging.co.uk/solar-panel-faults-common-types-and-causes/

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Product Photography Opus Genie Wipes

​ https://www.visualchaosstudios.co.uk/product-photography-opus-genie-wipes/

Forest Canopy Survey Using Photogrammetry Techniques

Caterham School Photogrammetry of Forest Trees - Surveying for Chalara Fraxinea – Ash Dieback Last year, we were asked by Caterham School to survey and map their school forest known as Old Parks Wood. Ash trees within the wood were suffering from Chalara Fraxinea (Ash Dieback) a disease which has the potential to kill off 80% of the ash trees in the 45-acre wood and once dead, would quickly become dangerous to wildlife and other users of the woods, including the school pupils. The mission was to map the forest canopy by drone using photogrammetry survey techniques so that the school could get a full understanding of the degree of diseased trees that were present, and then subsequently put in place a management plan in conjunction with the Forestry Commission, Natural England and the local council. Project Background In 2014 the school had bought approximately 140 acres of Old Park Wood – partly to protect it from the threat of development but also to secure its long-term future as a bi...

Hidden Issues with Thermal Imaging During Building Surveys

Beyond the Surface: Discovering Hidden Issues with Thermal Imaging during Building Surveys Building surveys have evolved significantly, thanks to advancements in thermal imaging technology and the transformative impact of thermal imaging during building surveys, uncovering concealed issues that traditional methods might overlook. The Power of Thermal Imaging Thermal imaging enables a deeper understanding of a building’s thermal performance. By capturing infrared radiation, these cameras reveal temperature variations that are invisible to the naked eye. This non-destructive technique is particularly valuable for identifying hidden issues affecting a building’s efficiency and structural integrity. Harnessing thermal imaging technology during surveys provides a comprehensive overview of a building’s insulation, HVAC systems, and potential air leaks. This proactive approach goes beyond the surface, allowing for precise problem detection before they escalate. Unearthing Insulation Deficie...