Solar panel repair costs $250 to $1,500 on average, but prices vary widely from as low as $20 to repair a tiny crack to as high as $3,000 to replace a broken micro inverter. Most solar panel repair professionals also have minimum job fees, typically ranging from $100 to $250.

Solar panels are durable and designed to withstand various weather conditions, but certain components of your solar panel system may need repair or replacement over time. Common issues include cracked glass, loose parts, chewed wiring, rust, corrosion, broken inverters, and trees obstructing the panel surfaces.

If your solar panels are roof-mounted, additional roof repairs cost anywhere from $150 to $1,000+.

While you can do some basic maintenance tasks DIY, such as rinsing off ground-mounted solar panels that are easy to access safely, hire a professional for repairs. Professional solar companies have the proper equipment and training to ensure repairs are done safely and correctly, without risking injury or damage to your solar system.

Yes, while solar panels are relatively low maintenance, they require some periodic attention to ensure their performance and lifespan. Even though solar panels are quite durable, various factors like weather, dirt buildup, and physical damage can affect solar panel efficiency. Dirt or debris buildup alone can reduce energy output by 7% to 30% or more.

Some solar panel installation service contracts include annual inspections and cleaning at no additional cost. When not included, professional solar panel cleaning costs $150 to $500, or $10 to $20 per panel on average. The average cost of solar panel maintenance in total is $300 to $850 per year, including inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs.

Some warranties require a specific number of inspections per year and a certain type of cleaning method, which can affect your total cost.

How often your solar panels need maintenance depends on several factors, including location, weather, and the type of solar panel system you have. A good general guideline is to schedule a professional inspection and cleaning once or twice a year. However, solar panels in areas with high levels of dust, pollution, or bird activity may need more frequent attention to maintain their functionality and efficiency.

Regardless of where you live, always check your solar panels after a major weather event. Catching and resolving damage early can help avoid more costly repairs down the line.

When hiring a professional solar panel repair service near you, be sure to:

• Look for active members of related professional organizations like the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
• Search for solar panel repair professionals with consistently positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Get at least three repair estimates to compare.
• Choose a licensed, bonded, and insured company that's been around for at least 5 years.
• Be cautious of extremely low estimates. This may be a sign of low-quality work lack of experience.

Ask these important questions to help you select a qualified and trustworthy pro for your solar panel repair:

• How long have you been repairing solar panels?
• What relevant training, certifications, or licensing do you have?
• Do you have experience working with solar panels like mine?
• Can you provide a list of references I can contact or testimonials from past customers?
• What exactly does the repair estimate include?
• What additional costs might come up during the repair?
• Will you inspect the entire solar panel system to ensure there are no other issues?
• How long do you expect the repair to take?