Solar Power Burnout

Now That My Rooftop Solar System Has Been Up for a Few Years, What Are a Few Things I Should Be Aware Of?

Rooftop solar has no moving parts but plenty can go wrong. Here is an example of how something as simple as broken plastic cable ties stopped this system working.

How did this happen?

The original installer used cheap cable ties that quickly degraded in sunlight, dropping cabling onto a roof that can exceed 60°C in summer. This temperature can easily melt plastic insulation. Similar issues we’ve come across include failed connections, internal cracks in panels, and water-logged isolator switches.

When did the owners realise something was wrong?

It was only when they got around to comparing a year-on-year power bill they discovered the system had died. They were so used to having the system operating, they took that for granted.