Solar PV Fault Finding Manchester
Solar PV systems are electrical installations, and like any electrical system, they can develop faults that require specialist equipment and expertise to locate. DC arc faults in concealed wiring, degraded MC4 connectors behind panels, failed bypass diodes within individual panels, and earth faults caused by moisture ingress are all common issues that cannot be identified by visual inspection alone. These faults reduce your generation, can damage other components, and in the case of DC arc faults, present a genuine fire risk.
Manchester Renewables provides technical solar PV fault finding across Greater Manchester using professional-grade diagnostic equipment. Our MCS-certified engineers use FLIR thermal imaging cameras, Seaward Solar PV IV curve tracers, insulation resistance testers and DC clamp meters to systematically trace faults through your system from the panel array down to the consumer unit. We diagnose faults that other companies cannot find because we have invested in the right equipment and training.
Whether you have been told your system has an earth fault, your inverter keeps shutting down, one string is producing significantly less than the others, or your RCD keeps tripping, we have the tools and experience to find the root cause and recommend the most cost-effective solution.
What Is Included?
Thermal Imaging Fault Detection
FLIR infrared thermal imaging of your entire panel array to identify hotspots caused by failed cells, bypass diode faults, high-resistance connections and internal short circuits. Thermal anomalies are photographed and documented with temperature differentials for your records.
IV Curve Tracing & String Analysis
IV curve tracing of each string to produce a characteristic curve that reveals panel degradation, cell cracking, diode failure and connection resistance. We overlay the curves against ideal performance data for your specific panel model to quantify the extent of any fault.
Insulation Resistance & Earth Fault Testing
Megger insulation resistance testing of all DC cables, connectors and panel strings to locate earth faults and insulation breakdown. Earth faults are one of the most common solar PV issues and can be caused by water ingress into junction boxes, rodent-damaged cables or deteriorated MC4 connectors.
DC Connection & Polarity Verification
Systematic testing of every MC4 connector, junction box and isolator in the DC circuit. We check for correct polarity, connection resistance, water ingress and heat damage. Poorly crimped or corroded MC4 connectors are a frequent cause of reduced output and arc fault risk.
Fault Report & Repair Quotation
A detailed fault report documenting every test performed, all findings with supporting images and data, and a clear repair quotation. We explain the fault in plain language so you understand what has gone wrong, why it matters, and what needs to be done to fix it.
MCS Consumer Code: Safety and compliance protection
The MCS Consumer Code and the IET Code of Practice for Solar PV Systems require that all electrical faults in solar installations are diagnosed and repaired by qualified persons using appropriate test equipment. Using an MCS-certified installer for fault finding means all work meets the required safety standards and that your system remains compliant with building regulations, manufacturer warranties and DNO connection agreements.
Why It Matters
- DC arc faults caused by degraded connectors and wiring are a leading cause of solar panel fires — early detection is critical for safety
- Earth faults can cause your system's RCD to trip repeatedly, cutting power to your entire property
- A single failed bypass diode in one panel can reduce the output of an entire string by 30% or more
- Moisture ingress into junction boxes and MC4 connectors accelerates corrosion, meaning faults worsen progressively if not addressed
- Many faults are intermittent, appearing only under certain temperature or load conditions, making them difficult to diagnose without specialist equipment
Cost Guidance
Solar PV fault finding in Manchester typically costs between £200 and £400 for a domestic system, depending on the complexity of the fault and the number of strings and panels involved. This covers the diagnostic visit with all necessary testing and a detailed written report. If the fault can be repaired on the same visit — such as replacing a failed MC4 connector or bypass diode — we include the repair time and charge only for parts. Complex faults requiring panel removal, cable replacement or roof work are quoted separately after diagnosis.