Solar FAQs
Get some of your questions answered now.
Do you service solar thermal systems (solar hot water)?
No. We specialize in service for solar electric (PV) systems.
How do I know my system is working?
The best way is to make sure you have a value, often fluctuating, in watts (W) on the inverter display screen. If your inverter does not have a display screen, you can check for any indicator lights. Often, if an indicator light is red, it means there may be an issue with the inverter. If you have a SolarEdge inverter without a screen, you should see a blue/green light in the mid-section of the inverter which indicates that it is functioning normally. If you have online monitoring, you can check your system production through your online monitoring platform to make sure your system is performing the way it should be.
I've noticed my solar credits from utility have dropped. What's going on?
If your system recently reached its 10-year anniversary, it's likely that your TVA GPP premium solar rate has ended. Per your contract, TVA will still pay you retail rate for your solar kWh for next 10 years (years 11-20). If your system is newer than 10 years, and you've seen a drop in solar credits or a drop in solar production, there could be an issue with your system. Please submit our form below if you suspect a technical problem.
Will my system generate solar energy during inclement weather?
Yes, but solar production is proportionate to the thickness of cloud cover. Depending on the weather severity, the inverter might produce very low values, but could also be completely off with no lights or in sleep mode. It is always best to wait out the weather and confirm production on the next sunny day or when the snow melts.
I am looking at my monitoring system and there is no production?
This is generally a communication problem between the inverter and monitoring device; most often, the system is still producing. First, make sure that your internet is still working and that no changes have been made to your network or firewall, if you have one. If there is a gateway or webbox device, make sure it is plugged in and all appropriate lights are on.
What do I do if my inverter is reading a fault?
Leave the inverter in fault mode, do not power cycle, and take a picture of the fault error if you can. Upload the photo with your service request form.
I think I need an appointment, when can you send out a technician?
If a service appointment is required, we are generally available within 2 weeks of when you contact us, often sooner. Please fill out the service request form to get on our schedule.
What if there’s a hailstorm, can my solar panels withstand hail?
Solar electric panels are built with high‐impact tempered glass. The solar industry standard dictates that panels should be able to withstand golf ball-sized hail. In our experience, hail often causes damage to the asphalt shingles around the solar panels, but does not damage the panels.
I think I have hail damage to my roof and/or panels. What should I do?
If your solar panels do suffer any hail damage, we have a dedicated service team ready to help take care of your investment.
- If you know you have broken solar panels, go ahead and turn off your system. The shutoff switch will be clearly labeled (with “On” and “Off” or “AC Disconnect”) either in your main breaker panel or on a box mounted next to your inverter. If you do not see broken solar panels, you do not need to turn off your system.
- Call your insurance company immediately and begin the claim process. They will schedule an adjuster to come to your house to inspect both your roof and your solar array.
- Submit a deinstallation/reinstallation request via the form on this page as soon as possible so we can get you on our schedule for the repairs, minimizing your wait time.
I think my panels need to be cleaned. What should I do?
Most solar panels pitched at 20 degrees or more get cleaned with rainfall. However, depending on your location and weather, panels can get heavily soiled, especially if they have a flatter pitch. If they are visibly dirty, your production could be impacted. In our experience, the cost of cleaning a residential solar system is generally more than the cost of lost production. The larger the system, the more economical it is to have them professionally cleaned by LightWave. If you can safely wash your panels yourself, we recommend using a soft brush with water and a little dish soap. If you want a quote for panel cleaning, please fill out our service request form.
I’m interested in setting up a maintenance plan. Do you offer that?
Yes, we do! For commercial systems, we offer comprehensive operations & maintenance (O&M) services to ensure your system performs at its best. Learn more and request a quote here.
For residential systems, we offer annual checkups that include visual inspections, bolt tightening, inverter fan cleanings and more. Fill out the form below to request a quote for annual checkups.
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