Let's Take An Honest Look at Common Problems in Aussie Homes
So, you’ve got a solar system on your roof, the sun’s shining, but your power bill’s still high or worse, your inverter screen’s throwing error codes and you’ve got no idea why.
Don’t stress. You’re not alone.
Thousands of Aussie households run into issues with their solar systems every year, and it’s not always easy to figure out what’s going wrong. In this blog post, we’re going to run through every common reason your solar system might not be working properly—from minor hiccups to major faults—so you can better understand the problem and what to do next.
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1. Shading: The Silent Output Killer
What’s the problem?
Even just a bit of shade on one solar panel can drag down the performance of your entire system—especially if you're running a string inverter setup. You might not notice it until your next electricity bill shows up and you’re wondering why your savings have disappeared.
What causes it?
- Trees growing taller over time
- New constructions (e.g. second-storey extensions next door)
- Antennas, chimneys, or even bird nests
What to do
✔ Check your panels during peak sunlight hours.
✔ Trim any overhanging trees.
✔ Consider upgrading to micro-inverters or optimisers so one shaded panel doesn’t drag down the whole system.
2. Dirty Panels: Dust, Droppings & Grime
Why does it matter?
We live in Australia. That means dust storms, bird droppings, bats, possums, salt spray (if you’re near the coast)—and all that gunk ends up on your solar panels. Dirty panels can lose anywhere from 5% to 25% of efficiency, depending on how bad it gets.
When to clean them
- After dry, dusty periods
- After a lot of bird activity
- If you notice lower output on sunny days
Pro tip
If your panels are difficult to reach or you’re not confident working at heights, get a professional solar cleaner—they’ll clean them safely and may also spot other issues like cracked panels or loose wiring while they’re up there.
3. Inverter Issues: The Brains of the System
How do I know if it’s the inverter?
- Your inverter screen has a red or orange light
- You’re seeing error codes (like “No Grid” or “Isolation Fault”)
- Your monitoring app shows zero or low output
The inverter is the most common failure point in a solar system. Most only last about 10 to 15 years, even though your panels might go for 25+.
What can go wrong?
- Internal electronic failures
- Faulty DC isolators
- Voltage fluctuations from the grid
- Water ingress (especially in cheap inverters)
What to do
If your inverter’s showing a fault code or misbehaving, don't try to open or repair it yourself—it’s a high-voltage device and can be dangerous. Call in a licensed solar technician (like us) to run a full diagnostic.
4. Electrical Faults and Loose Wiring
How this causes trouble
If your system was poorly installed or hasn’t been checked in years, you might be dealing with:
- Loose connections
- Burnt terminals
- Corroded cables
- Rodent damage
These faults not only reduce performance—they can also be a serious fire hazard.
When to suspect wiring issues
- Intermittent shutdowns
- Sudden drops in output
- Burnt smells near your inverter or switchboard
- Isolation Faults
Only a trained technician can safely test the continuity and insulation of the system wiring. This is not a DIY job.
5. System Wasn’t Installed Properly
Unfortunately, Australia’s solar boom led to a lot of rushed and substandard installs, especially from cheap ‘solar rebate’ companies that disappeared after a few years.
Common issues include:
- Panels installed at the wrong tilt or orientation
- Poor-quality mounting brackets
- Inadequate ventilation around the inverter
- Incorrectly sized systems (too small or too big for your needs)
If your system has never worked properly since installation, you might be a victim of dodgy workmanship. A full solar system health check can identify whether it’s worth repairing or replacing parts of the system.
6. Grid Voltage Too High (or Too Low)
What’s happening?
When the local grid voltage spikes too high (usually above 255V), your inverter may shut itself down automatically to protect your home. You won’t get solar power during this time, and unless you’re monitoring it, you may not even notice.
What can be done?
- Check the inverter logs for grid voltage shutdowns
- Talk to your energy distributor (not the retailer!) to adjust the local voltage tap
- Install export limiters or voltage control devices
This issue is becoming more common as more solar systems are added to the grid, especially in dense suburban areas.
7. Panel or Inverter Reached End-of-Life
Solar panels degrade slowly over time. After about 20–25 years, their output drops by 15–30%. Inverters, on the other hand, typically last 10–15 years.
What signs should I look for?
- Gradual but consistent drop in solar performance
- Inverter randomly shutting down
- Strange noises, flickering displays, or no response
If your system is more than 10 years old and starting to struggle, it might be time to consider repairing, upgrading, or replacing components.
8. Poor Monitoring Setup
Sometimes your solar system is working fine—but your monitoring system isn’t.
Wi-Fi dropouts, outdated software, or faulty CT clamps can cause your app to show incorrect or no data. Before you panic, always check the basics:
- Is your inverter still connected to the internet?
- Have you updated the app or firmware?
- Do the inverter lights suggest it’s operating normally?
If your app shows a problem, confirm it with a visual inspection of your inverter before assuming the worst.
Need an Electrician or Solar Specialist in Brisbane or Redlands?
9. External Environmental Damage
Your solar system is exposed to the elements 24/7. In Australia, this means:
- Hailstorms
- Cyclones
- Lightning strikes
- Excessive heat (>40°C)
While panels are tested to survive harsh conditions, no system is indestructible. After extreme weather, always do a visual check from the ground and call a professional if you see anything unusual.
10. System Mismatch or Upgrade Problems
If you’ve added new panels or a battery to an old system, there’s a chance the components aren’t playing nicely together. Mixing new, high-output panels with older, degraded ones can lead to reduced performance across the array.
Always make sure new components are compatible in terms of voltage, amperage, and firmware.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Signs
Your solar system is one of the best investments you’ve made—but it needs occasional attention to keep it running smoothly.
If you’re noticing:
- Poor energy production on sunny days
- Weird inverter lights or noises
- Higher-than-expected power bills
…it’s time to act.
At Solair Electrical, we specialise in solar fault finding, inverter repairs, panel inspections, and full system diagnostics. Whether your system is new or 15 years old, we’ll help you figure out what’s going wrong—and more importantly, how to fix it.