{"id":743,"date":"2019-10-03T14:07:47","date_gmt":"2019-10-03T21:07:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/?p=743"},"modified":"2023-05-26T00:24:37","modified_gmt":"2023-05-26T07:24:37","slug":"9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-with-fixes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-with-fixes\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Common Problems with Solar Pumps &#8211; With Fixes"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>There are two main divisions of solar\npumps: submersible and surface. Each of these can be used for different\npurposes, and therefore come with their own unique set of problems, so here\nsome of the most common problems (and solutions) you may encounter with your\nnew solar pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What are some of the most common problems\nwith solar pumps?<strong> Solar pump\nmalfunctions include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol><li><strong>Pumps failing to\nstart\/function<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Tilt angle causing\ninconsistent water flow<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Low water production<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Water running continuously<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Malfunctions with low well\nsensor<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Damaged pumping mechanism<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Moisture inside\/on PV\npanel<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Hot spots in cells<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Hot cells<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"924\" height=\"616\" src=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024.jpg\" alt=\"9 Common problems with Solar Pumps - With Fixes\" class=\"wp-image-772\" srcset=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024.jpg 924w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"924\" height=\"616\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20924%20616'%3E%3Crect%20width='924'%20height='616'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"9 Common problems with Solar Pumps - With Fixes\" class=\"wp-image-772 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024.jpg.webp 924w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-300x200.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-1024-1024x683.jpg.webp 1024w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Knowing the problem is only half the\nbattle. Continue reading for an in-depth look at each of these common issues\nand how to fix them!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of Solar Pumps and Associated Problems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As described by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.elprocus.com\/solar-pump-types-and-their-applications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">EL-PRO-CUS<\/a>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Submersible solar pumps:<\/strong> these pumps are capable of lifting water from 650 feet and are\nsuggested for a depth of approximately 150 feet. These pump water in the day\ntime (during sunshine, of course), and water is stored in an external tank for\nfuture use.<ul><li><em>Main problems: pump malfunctioning or not powering on. Typically,\nthis can be attributed to a failure of the control box or malfunctioning of, or\ndamage to, pressure switch.<\/em> <\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Surface solar pumps:<\/strong> these work for ponds and shallow wells. The maximum recommended\ndepth of water is 20 feet. These can push water up to 200 feet. They are best\nfor pulling water from approximately 60 feet. <ul><li><em>Main problems: more vulnerable to environmental damage due to being\ninstalled at the surface level, typically use more power than submersibles.\nThese things can result in lower water production and exposure to obstructions\nto PV panels, resulting in lower energy efficiency. <\/em><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>As they are not installed\nbelow the freezing line, these pumps are particularly vulnerable to damage in\nthe pump mechanism or pipes during winter months due to expanding, frozen\nwater.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Long do Solar Pumps Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The average life expectancy of a solar pump\nis about 20-25 years, with regular maintenance. For instance, panels and the\npump need to be cleaned to prevent a build-up of debris, which could contribute\nto lower water production due to either blockage of the solar panels or\ncongestion of soil particles in the pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although solar panels can be expensive to\nmaintain (at the beginning), they are beneficial in that they allow individuals\nto be in direct control of their water supply at all times and they&rsquo;re at their\npeak production in summer due to frequency and strength of sunlight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given their long lifespans, the cost of the\nsolar panel is ultimately less than that of a traditional generator, as they do\nnot need as frequent replacement of parts and constant, intensive upkeep. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, this is not to say that your solar\npump will never need any upkeep. Few issues come up quite often with solar pump\nusers. Here&rsquo;s a comprehensive list of the most common problems with solar pumps\n(and how to fix them). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Pump Will Not Start or Function at All<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are\nseveral reasons a pump may not start or function at all. The first thing you\nneed to do is figure out exactly what is causing this problem You may be able to\nrepair the solar pump, or call someone in to repair it, but you might also need\nto replace it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcworst.com\/blog\/Troubleshooting-Submersible-Well-Pumps-101-Pump-Will-Not-Start\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"Troubleshooting (opens in a new tab)\">Troubleshooting<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rcworst.com\/blog\/Troubleshooting-Submersible-Well-Pumps-101-Pump-Will-Not-Start\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"> Steps<\/a>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol><li><strong>Check the voltage of the\nsystem:<\/strong> Voltage should be at 10%&plusmn; motor ratings. Read voltage at pressure switch, control box, and\nany other components power may be running through. <\/li><li><strong>Check Pressure Switch:<\/strong> Look for deformed, burned or melted parts or discoloration, namely\nall black components. Check for sediment\/debris in the tube\/nipple leading to\nswitch. Check that contact points are being opened and closed accordingly.<\/li><li><strong>Check Control Panel:<\/strong> Check for apparent defects or simply signs of wear and tear. Look\nspecifically for burnt, loose or melted components.<\/li><li><strong>Check Splice Connections:<\/strong> Check for any corrosion or obvious damage. Typically, there is a\nsplice connection at the top of the well, between the submersible cable and the\nUF\/THHN. <\/li><li><strong>Check the Pump and Motor:<\/strong> If none of the above yields results, it may just be time to replace\nthe pump and\/or motor.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Although, before you toss it, there are many ways to troubleshoot the pump and motor, so check with the <a href=\"https:\/\/franklinwater.com\/media\/110562\/M1311_60_Hz_AIM_12-14-WEB.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">AIM Manual on Submersible Motors<\/a> first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\nTilt Angle Causing Inconsistent\nWater Flow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If the angle of\nthe solar panel is too steep, not all of the surface area is being used, and\ntherefore not as much energy is taken in. This results in a significantly decreased\nproduction level of water. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rpssolarpumps.com\/mounting-your-solar-panels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">RPS Solar Pumps<\/a> offers a graphic explaining the perfect tilt angle for your solar panel based on your location in the United States. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Northern states\nsuch as Washington, Montana, and North Dakota are recommended to maintain a\nfixed Tilt Angle at 37&#730;, with adjustments\nfor summer angles of 2&#730; and winter angles at\n41&#730;. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Southern states,\nincluding Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, are suggested to have fixed Tilt\nAngles at 30&#730;, adjusting to 11&#730; in summer and 50&#730; for\nwinter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\nadjust the angle for your proper latitude and time of year, you will see an\nimmediate improvement in the water production of your pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Low Water Production<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Any blockage of light will affect your solar pump&rsquo;s performance in that it is unable to collect as much sunlight for energy production. Some pumps are so sensitive that even shadows cast in passing by a human will decrease water production. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Troubleshooting COMMON ISSUES for RPS Solar Well Pump Kits - Part 1\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7aLXe5b7q6w?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Microcracks and shattered glass can also seriously affect water production. These issues can arise due to defects in manufacturing, problems in transport or during installation. Although at first, it will only cause a small loss in power, this loss will increase over time and cause you to lose out on a lot of energy, and therefore, water, production. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Common problems with solar panels\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Rw8XuB0BSVI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Check the\nsurroundings of the chosen site. Consider locating your solar pump in an area\nthat has little foot traffic (both animals and humans), to avoid casting\nshadows, and get rid of any overhanging vegetation that may even completely\nblock some of the cells. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, take a\nlook at the height of your pump in the well. If your pump is too high in the\nwell, it will not pull up an adequate amount of water. Lower the pump into the\nwell, and it should return to producing normally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, examine\nyour panel closely for cracks or any deformities in the cells. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homesteadingtoday.com\/threads\/repair-cracked-damaged-solar-panel.318178\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Some have tried<\/a> using polyurethane to &ldquo;paint&rdquo; over the cracks and re-seal the panel, applying upwards of six coats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/synergypower.com\/can-i-fix-a-cracked-solar-panel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Synergy Power<\/a>, however, says that such DIY fixes are, in fact, not a good idea as there are many chemical reactions required to properly seal the PV (photovoltaic) panels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, you\nmay have to look into the replacement of the panel, as the expertise and\nmaterials required for this replacement are not likely available to the average\nperson. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Water Running Continuously<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>According to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.siliconsolar.com\/proper-solar-well-pump-maintenance-troubleshooting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Silicon Solar<\/a>, there may be a break in the line or a check valve in the riser pipe may be open. This can either be between the pump and the building to which the water is being supplied, or in the plumbing of the building. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A few\ntroubleshooting steps to this would be to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Keep an eye out in the yard for\nany puddles. This will be a tell-tale sign of where the leak is occurring. <\/li><li>Shut off the water in the house\nand look at the water pressure gauge. If it remains consistent, there is no\nproblem with the check valves and no leaks. If the pressure drops, there is a\nleak in the line to the house or an issue with the check valve.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If the latter is\nthe case, you will need to contact a professional plumber to help you fix the\nproblem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Otherwise, check\nthe pressure switch and try to lower the minimum pressure. Make sure to turn\noff the power before adjusting the pressure switch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hunker.com\/12424618\/a-well-water-pump-that-wont-shut-off\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Hunker<\/a> suggests even considering a smaller well pump if none of the above solve the problem, as seasonal changes can have drastic effects on elements such as the height of the water table. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Malfunctions with Low Well Sensor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If the low well\nsensor is too high in the water, not in the water at all, or not connected to\nthe controller. The sensor will remain on, and the system will not pump water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can happen\nespecially often in dry summer seasons, when production is at its peak, meaning\nthe well runs lower much faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Check that your\nsensor is submerged and perform a system reset. Once on again, the system will\nrecognize that the sensor is submerged, shut off the Low Well alert and\ncontinue pumping water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Damaged Pumping Mechanism<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Helical rotors\nare particularly prone to this. If the Stator is being operated outside of the\nwater, it can overheat and melt, and not function properly. The build-up of\nsediment\/debris in the well can wear out your Stators even faster. Wear and\ntear over time will also damage these mechanisms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need to\npull up the pump and replace the pumping mechanism. This process only takes\nabout 15 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RPS Solar Pumps provides an in-depth instructional video on performing tests on their Solar Well Pump Kits and knowing when to replace this mechanism. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Troubleshooting TESTS for RPS Solar Well Pump Kits - Part 2\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/fzFISQ-HJNE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Moisture Inside, or on, PV Panel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moisture can\nenter the panel when the backsheet becomes separated from the back of the\npanels if the backsheet is cracked or the glass of the panel is cracked. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moisture inside\nthe solar panel can cause corrosion and decrease performance efficiency over\ntime. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moisture on the exterior of the panels can reduce efficiency as well, as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.solar.com\/learn\/how-do-wind-and-humidity-affect-solar-panel-efficiency\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">solar.com<\/a> notes, because the water vapor and droplets will reflect light away from the panel, reducing the amount of energy it can take in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Humid weather\ncan contribute to these conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a look at\nthe build of your solar panel. Some panels are built with ventilation apertures\nto allow airflow into the panel to solve the inevitable build-up of\ncondensation within the plate.<\/p><p>This article is owned by SolarPowerGenie.com and was first published on October 3, 2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nacleanenergy.com\/articles\/17094\/clearing-condensation-in-flat-plate-solar-thermalcollectors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">North American Clean Energy<\/a> notes that, for flat-plate collectors, a 50-fold daily air change rate is optimal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper\nventilation of your solar panel can work only if it&rsquo;s secured on the\nappropriate mounting hardware, as the ventilation apertures are located on the\nback of the panel for protection from the rain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For condensation\ninside the glass, the ventilating\/insulating functions of the backsheet and\napertures will solve this within an hour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For wetness on\nthe exterior of the panel, make sure to regularly clean the glass, as water,\ndebris and anything that can reflect light away from or cast a shadow on the\npanel will significantly reduce energy production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For panels with moisture damage caused by the separation of the backsheet from the panel, Gold Coast Solar Power Solutions states that these must be replaced, as the integrity of the hardware has been significantly compromised. The same is recommended for the following two common problems.<\/p><p>This article is owned by SolarPowerGenie.com and was first published on October 3, 2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Common problems with solar panels\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Rw8XuB0BSVI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.civicsolar.com\/article\/importance-panel-durability-vital-role-backsheet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Civic Solar<\/a> suggests avoiding panels that use backsheets made of non-UV resistant material, such as polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) film. Just behind these are polyethylene terephthalate (PET) backsheets. These backsheets are subject to a significant amount of defects, 60% and 30%, respectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Backsheets\ncomposed of polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) are recommended as the most reliable\nmaterial. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Hot Spots in Cells (Burn Marks Inside Cell)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This can create\na serious fire hazard. There will be holes in the cells, and it can even burn\nthe backsheet of the panel. Hot spots can also cause the glass of the solar\npanel to shatter across the entire panel or in a localized region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can be\ncaused by poor soldering or poor joints during manufacturing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This instance is considered a failure of the solar panel, and it needs to be replaced. See the previous section for information on choosing reliable material for backseet to avoid this problem in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Common problems with solar panels\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Rw8XuB0BSVI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Hot Cells (Outside of Cell is Burned)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is\nresistance in energy production in the cell, and so the cell overheats and\nburns around the edges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of\npassing power through the cell, the cell somehow creates a bit of resistance in\nenergy production, and so overheats. Power from the rest of the panel can feed\ninto this and burn the cell even more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This instance is considered a failure of the solar panel and it needs to be replaced. See section, &ldquo;Moisture Inside, or on, PV Panel,&rdquo; for information on choosing reliable material for backsheet to avoid this problem in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Common problems with solar panels\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Rw8XuB0BSVI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintenance and Care for Solar Pumps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Being armed with the knowledge of the 9\nmost common problems with solar pumps and their fixes will go a long way for\nyou, but installing and maintaining your solar pump properly will go a lot\nfurther.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Proper Installation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>What you can do to prevent these major\nproblems from happening&nbsp; is making the\nbest choices before the installation of your solar pump. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can avoid unnecessary moisture\ncondensation in the panel by not only choosing the best material recommended for\nbacksheets, but also ensuring that your backsheet isn&rsquo;t directly exposed to the\nsun (this is where tilt angle comes into play). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Basic Troubleshooting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For problems with the pumps themselves, as\nyou saw, these issues can often be identified and solved on your own. More\noften than not, the problem lies in a pump that was set too high in the well or\nsome sort of obstruction blocking the intake of solar rays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When troubleshooting these problems, it is\nrecommended to start at the surface level first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meaning, check that the solar panel and\nconnections are working properly before moving lower to the pump or controller.\nAs these parts are not subject to environmental exposure as the solar panel is,\nunless there is a manufacturer defect or a mistake was made during\ninstallation, you should not see any problems with the functioning pump\ncomponents.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintenance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Thankfully, solar pumps do not require a\nlot of maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Every few years, the solar\npanel needs to be cleaned with soap and water. <\/li><li>Once or twice a year, perform a\nroutine inspection of water flow. This will immediately tell you of issues with\nlow water flow or inconsistent water flow. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>That&rsquo;s it! Solar pumps do not take much\nmaintenance at all, and as you can see above, troubleshooting is just as user-friendly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ultimately, Is a Solar Pump Worth the Trouble?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The uses of solar pumps for access to clean water for underprivileged communities and large-scale use for livestock owners are now recognized by the <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.fao.org\/3\/i9047en\/I9047EN.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations<\/a> and USDA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, some of the major problems\nyou may see with your panel will ultimately need to be replaced or looked at by\na professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If so many things can go wrong, and further,\nso many things that would ultimately need replacement by a professional, why\nbother? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite an average cost of $2000 on installation, there are tremendous advantages to choosing solar, according to <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rpssolarpumps.com\/learn\/10-reasons-to-install-a-solar-powered-well-pump-system-today\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">RPS Solar Pumps<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Solar well pumps are\nsignificantly more energy-efficient than alternative power sources for pumping.<\/li><li>They are virtually\nmaintenance-free<\/li><li>Solar pumps, both surface and\nsubmersible, are long-lasting. <\/li><li>They can be installed almost\nanywhere, whether you live in the suburbs or a rural area.<\/li><li>Environmentally-friendly<\/li><li>No ongoing costs<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nProblems that can arise with solar well pumps\nare almost negligible when looking at the advantages, durability, and\nlow-maintenance traits of this system.\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Articles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/how-much-do-solar-panels-degrade-each-year\/\">How Much Do Solar Panels Degrade Each Year?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/can-you-mount-solar-panels-upside-down\/\">Can You Mount Solar Panels Upside Down?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/should-solar-panels-be-covered-when-not-in-use\/\">Should solar panels be covered when not in use?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/what-to-do-about-a-solar-battery-draining-fast\/\">What to Do About A Solar Battery Draining Fast<\/a><\/p><p>This article is owned by SolarPowerGenie.com and was first published on October 3, 2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/why-are-solar-panels-so-expensive\/\">Why Are Solar Panels So Expensive?<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There are two main divisions of solar pumps: submersible and surface. Each of these can be used for different purposes, and therefore come with their own unique set of problems, so here some of the most common problems (and solutions) you may encounter with your new solar pump. What are some of the most common &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":773,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>9 Common Problems with Solar Pumps - With Fixes - SolarPowerGenie.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/solarpowergenie.com\/9-common-problems-with-solar-pumps-with-fixes\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"9 Common Problems with Solar Pumps - With Fixes - SolarPowerGenie.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"There are two main divisions of solar pumps: submersible and surface. 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