1. Cracked or Broken Glass Surface
- Repairing Small Cracks: For small cracks on the surface, you can use waterproof epoxy resin to seal the crack, preventing moisture from entering and worsening the damage. However, this method is limited to minor surface cracks and won't fully restore the panel's efficiency.
- Replacing the Glass Layer: If the crack is large or the glass is significantly broken, the entire glass layer may need to be replaced by a professional.
2. Leakage
Leakage refers to water leakage on the surface of solar panels, which may be caused by processing errors or improper sealing of interfaces.
Repair: In the event of a leak, the first step is to identify the location of the leak, clean it thoroughly and repair it with the appropriate sealant. When choosing the glue, make sure that its color, material and use match the solar panel to ensure the repair effect.
3. Oxidation
Oxidation refers to the surface of the solar panels appear oxidized layer, usually due to pollutants in the environment or caused by prolonged use.
Repair method: For oxidization, you can use cleaner or alcohol to clean the surface, but before cleaning, you need to make sure to disconnect the power supply of the solar panel to avoid accidental electric shock. After cleaning, any residual cleaner should be thoroughly removed to prevent adverse effects on the solar panels.
4. Damaged Solar Cells
- Partial Repair: If an individual solar cell is slightly damaged, it can be repaired by soldering or replacing that specific cell to restore functionality. This is difficult, and we do not recommend you to do this unless you are particularly familiar with the structure of solar panels.
- Replacing Cell Groups: For more severe damage, you might need to replace an entire group of solar cells. This often involves rewiring and reconnecting the circuitry.
5. Loose or Damaged Welds
Loose or damaged welds on solar panel wires can cause circuit interruption or current leakage.
Repair method: For loose or damaged welds, you need to check if there is any burnout and then re-solder. If the weld is only loose, re-soldering is sufficient, if the weld is damaged, re-soldering is required.
6. Backsheet Damage
- Sealing Small Cracks: Cracks in the backsheet can allow moisture into the panel. Small cracks can be temporarily sealed with waterproof sealant to prevent water ingress. Of course, you can also use solar tape for repair. Solar tape can be used for fixing, protection during transportation, edge sealing, conductivity, waterproofing, and bonding components.
- Replacing the Backsheet: If the backsheet is heavily damaged, it’s recommended to have a professional replace it to protect the internal components.
7. Hotspot Issues
- Fixing Hotspots: Hotspots occur when some solar cells overheat, often due to shading or damaged cells. The issue can be resolved by replacing the damaged cells.
- Installing Bypass Diodes: In some cases, you can install bypass diodes to help the current bypass damaged cells and reduce the effect of hotspots.
8. Frame or Mounting Damage
- Reinforce or Replace Mounting: If the mounting or frame of the solar panel is damaged, you can reinforce it or replace the mounting to ensure the panel is securely installed and positioned correctly.
Final Advice
Repairing solar panels requires professional skills. For general problems such as cracked glass, damaged frame, loose wiring, etc., you can try DIY repairs, but for more difficult problems, we still recommend that you contact professional solar repair personnel to help you solve them, because this involves professional electrical knowledge and is more dangerous. If you want to replace new solar panels, you can check out SEL's high-quality solar panels, and we can provide you with professional services.
