Local solar expertise
Solar Repairs & Maintenance
Fast diagnosis, clear pricing, licensed work
A faulty isolator or panel fault can cut your system output and void your warranty if repaired badly. Solar Advice sends SAA-accredited electricians who diagnose the fault on-site, give you a written quote before starting, and test everything after repair. Most jobs run $180–$1,200 depending on complexity, parts and roof access. Contact us for a free assessment.
⏳ Deadlines
- Cheaper Home Batteries steps down in 66 days (1 January 2027)About $252/kWh for the first 14 kWh, $151/kWh to 28 kWh and $38/kWh to 50 kWh (2026 rate) Source: DCCEEW Cheaper Home Batteries, from 1 May 2026 · checked 2026-10-16
- STC discount on new solar shrinks in 66 days (1 January 2027)about 20% less than this year (one fewer deeming year) Source: Clean Energy Regulator (small-scale technology certificates) · set by law
Why solar repairs go wrong—and how to avoid it
Most solar repair problems start with guesswork: a contractor arrives without proper test gear, replaces a part they think is faulty, and charges labour for trial-and-error. If the diagnosis was wrong, you pay twice—once for the bad repair and again when the real fault returns. Worse, poorly fitted parts or non-compliant work can void your manufacturer warranty, disable monitoring integration and create electrical safety hazards on your roof.
The right repair uses a clear process: on-site assessment with portable test equipment, written diagnosis, itemised quote showing parts and labour, and work performed by a licensed electrician with full safety testing and documentation afterward. Solar Advice follows this standard every time. We explain what's wrong, show you the options and costs upfront, and hand you a warranty certificate and test report when we're done. That clarity saves money, protects your investment and keeps your system safe.
What this covers
- 01
System Health Check
Full electrical and physical inspection of your solar array, inverter, isolators and switchboard. We test voltage, current and earth continuity, review monitoring data and identify faults or maintenance needs. Includes a written report and recommendations. Typical cost: $250–$350.
- 02
Fault Diagnosis
If your system is underperforming or showing error codes, we isolate the cause: faulty strings, inverter problems, loose connections or panel damage. We use test equipment to pinpoint the issue and give you repair options and costs before starting work.
- 03
Isolator and Safety Switch Replacement
DC or AC isolators wear out or fail over time. Replacement includes safe power-down, removal of the old unit, installation of a new isolator (compliant with AS/NZS 4777) and full testing to confirm correct isolation and operation.
- 04
Panel Replacement and Repair
Cracked or internally failed panels reduce output and pose safety risks. We replace them with matched-voltage units, reconnect the strings, test the new panel's output and verify it integrates with your existing system. Often cheaper than a full system upgrade.
- 05
Inverter Repair and Replacement
String inverter failures range from firmware resets to component replacement. We diagnose the fault, advise repair versus replacement, and handle the work with new safety documentation. Replacements include full reinstallation of monitoring and app integration.
How we diagnose and repair your solar system
Every repair starts with a site visit and careful assessment. We visually inspect your panels for cracks, corrosion or physical damage, examine the frame and mounting for rust or looseness, and test the DC wiring and isolator for continuity and correct voltage isolation. Then we check the inverter's display and error codes, connect a portable power analyser to measure input and output voltages, and review 12 months of monitoring data to spot patterns. This detective work takes 30–60 minutes and costs $180–$250.
Once we've identified the fault, we explain it clearly: whether it's a failed string, a faulty isolator, an inverter firmware issue or a damaged panel. We show you repair options and give you a written quote with itemised parts and labour. We never start work until you've approved the quote in writing. After repair, we test the system again (full voltage, current and earth continuity), issue a safety test certificate and hand you warranty documents for the new part. If the repair involves electrical upgrades—such as fitting a new switchboard circuit—we ensure the work complies with the National Electrical Code and the local distribution network's requirements.
This methodical approach takes longer than a quick swap, but it prevents repeat failures and keeps your warranty intact. A faulty diagnosis costs far more than the inspection itself; a single repeat visit often costs more than the original repair.
Common faults and what they cost to fix
String inverter faults are among the most common. If one string underperforms (voltage drop or no output), the root cause might be a loose connector, a tripped isolator, a failed panel or a micro-inverter failure on one panel. We test each string in isolation, identify the weak link and fix it. A loose connector costs $0 (tightening only); a failed micro-inverter costs $400–$600 to replace; a damaged panel costs $500–$800 to replace.
Isolator faults often show as tripped breakers or no voltage even when the sun is shining. The isolator's internal relay wears out, especially in hot climates or after humidity exposure. Replacement is straightforward: $250–$400 total including a new isolator (usually $80–$150) and one hour of labour.
Inverter problems range from simple (firmware glitch, reset needed) to serious (failed power stage, burned capacitor). A firmware reset might cost nothing; a capacitor replacement $300–$600; a full inverter swap $1,500–$3,500 depending on the model. We diagnose each one and explain the best path forward.
Panel failures are less common than 15 years ago, but hail, age or manufacturing defect can cause cracks or internal cell failure. A single panel replacement (labour, new panel, reconnection and testing) costs $500–$900. Older systems sometimes have fewer panel spares available, which raises the cost. We source panels matching your system's voltage and warranty terms.
Pricing guide
How much does a solar repair cost in Australia?
Solar repair costs range $180–$1,200 per visit depending on what needs fixing. A simple health check costs $250–$350; isolator replacement $250–$550; inverter diagnosis and repair $300–$1,200; panel replacement $500–$900. Price varies with system size, component brand, roof access and urgency. Most quotes are free on-site and issued in writing before work starts.
- System size and complexity: larger arrays with multiple strings cost more to diagnose and repair.
- Equipment brand and availability: premium or older brands may have higher parts costs or longer lead times.
- Roof height and access: steep roofs, two storeys or limited scaffold access add labour time.
- Electrical upgrades: if the repair requires new switchboard circuits or safety devices, costs rise.
- Distance from Solar Advice's base: remote areas incur travel time; we quote this separately.
- Urgency: emergency repairs or weekend/evening callouts may attract a surcharge.
| Job type | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| System health check | $180 | $280 | $400 |
| Isolator replacement | $250 | $380 | $550 |
| Single panel replacement | $450 | $650 | $900 |
| Inverter repair or replacement | $300 | $900 | $2,500 |
Prices are indicative. Confirm exact costs with Solar Advice after on-site assessment. GST is included in quoted prices.
Typically included
- On-site visual and electrical inspection of the entire system
- Portable testing (multimeter, clamp meter, earth continuity tester, power analyser)
- Fault diagnosis and written explanation of findings
- Itemised written quote showing parts, labour and timescale before work begins
- Repair or replacement by a licensed electrician with safety testing and compliance checking
- Safety test certificate (earth continuity, isolation and surge protection verification) and warranty documents upon completion
Often excluded
- Routine cleaning or panel washing (arrange separately via a specialised solar cleaning service)
- Structural repairs (roof leaks, broken mounting frames); these are referred to a roof contractor
- Damage caused by poor initial installation or third-party work (remedial costs assessed separately)
- Monitoring system cloud-server subscriptions or provider changes (we reconnect your existing monitoring app)
Do not attempt electrical repairs yourself. Work on live solar systems poses electric shock and arc flash hazard. Always hire an SAA-accredited installer. Unapproved work voids manufacturer warranties and may breach the National Electrical Code and your home insurance. Contact your state energy agency or the Clean Energy Regulator if you suspect non-compliant installation.
Questions to ask every installer
- 1Is the contractor SAA accredited and can they show the solar installer certificate for each electrician who will work on my roof?
- 2Will they provide a written, itemised quote before starting work and explain what they'll test after repair?
- 3Do they supply a safety test certificate and warranty documentation after the repair, and what is the warranty period for parts and labour?
- 4Are they insured for roof work and electrical faults, and do they carry public liability cover?
- 5Can they arrange and manage any parts on order, or will I need to source panels or isolators myself?
Local solar data
How much power does solar make in Victoria?
Each kW of panels in Victoria makes about 1,366 kWh a year (Melbourne data). That means a 6.6kW system makes around 9,016 kWh a year, or about 25 kWh on an average day. Melbourne averages 4.8 peak sun hours a day.
Figures use PVWatts modelling for a north-facing (south-facing in the northern hemisphere) roof at 20°. Your actual output depends on shade, roof direction and the panels you choose.
| City | Network | kWh per kW a year | Sun hours a day | Grid price per kWh | Yearly saving, 6.6kW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne VIC | — | 1,366 | 4.76 | — | — |
Incentives that apply in Victoria
National · battery
Cheaper Home Batteries
About $252/kWh for the first 14 kWh, $151/kWh to 28 kWh and $38/kWh to 50 kWh (2026 rate)
Battery 5–100 kWh, able to join a VPP, connected to rooftop solar
Source: DCCEEW Cheaper Home Batteries, from 1 May 2026 · checked 2026-10-16
National · solar
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
Upfront discount: kW × zone multiplier × deeming years × STC price
Systems up to 100kW installed by an SAA-accredited installer
Source: SRES: zone multiplier × 5-year deeming × $38 per STC · checked 2026-10-16
VIC · hot water
Solar Victoria hot water rebate
up to $1,400 locally made, $1,000 other
Same $150,000 income cap
Source: Solar Victoria, from 1 July 2026 · checked 2026-10-16
VIC · solar
Solar Victoria panel rebate
up to $1,400
Combined household income $150,000 or less
Source: Solar Victoria, from 1 July 2026 · checked 2026-10-16
Sources: PVWatts v8 (north-facing 20°, 14% losses, nearest station) · SRES: zone multiplier × 5-year deeming × $38 per STC · DCCEEW Cheaper Home Batteries, from 1 May 2026 · Solar Victoria, from 1 July 2026
Brands we install
Brands we install
Ask us about current stock and warranty terms for each brand.
- Panels
- JinkoTrinaLONGiAikoRECCanadian SolarSunPower (Maxeon)
- Inverters
- FroniusSungrowSolarEdgeEnphaseGoodWeHuawei
- Batteries
- Tesla PowerwallSigenergyBYDAlpha ESSEnphase IQ BatterySungrow SBRFranklinWH
Solar designed around your situation
Which situation best suits you?
How much does solar system maintenance cost in Australia?
What does a solar health check include?
When should I get my solar panels serviced?
Can you fix a faulty solar inverter?
Do you replace solar panels, and what does it cost?
What does an isolator replacement involve?
Should I get a solar repair from an accredited installer?
Can I combine a solar repair with a battery installation?
Book Your Solar Health Check Today
On-site assessment, written quote, no surprises. 0485868633 or [email protected]