On this page
01. Quick checks you can do first02. What usually causes it03. When to call a technician04. Parts that fix it05. FAQ
Solar output drops because of dust, new shade, a failed panel or string, loose connectors or inverter limits. Compare today's midday output with a clear day when the system was new. In Kenya, dust can cut output noticeably within weeks in dry seasons, and output also dips on very hot days. Clean the panels and check for shade first; a big sudden drop usually means a failed string or connector.
Key takeaways
- Compare midday output on a clear day.
- Dust is the most common cause in dry seasons.
- New shade from buildings or trees costs a lot of output.
- A sudden drop of a third or more suggests a failed string.
- Export limits or a full battery can cap production.
01Quick checks you can do first
- 01Check today's peakNote the peak watts around noon on a clear day.
- 02Clean safelyRinse with water and a soft brush early in the morning; never walk on panels.
- 03Look for shadeEven part-shading of one panel can pull down a whole string.
- 04Check the limitsA full battery or zero-export setting reduces what the panels deliver.
- 05Check stringsIf your inverter has two PV inputs, compare them.
02What usually causes it
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Gradual drop | Dust and dirt | Regular cleaning |
| Drop in afternoons | New shade | Trim or relocate |
| Sudden 30–50% drop | Failed string or connector | Technician string test |
| Production flat at midday | Battery full or export limit | Normal; add loads or storage |
| Burn marks or cracked glass | Damaged panel | Replace panel |
03When to call a technician
- Output dropped suddenly.
- The roof is unsafe to access.
- You see burn marks, cracks or melted connectors.
- You want a full performance check before expanding.
Running this across several sites or branches? A Qyvea maintenance contract catches these faults on scheduled visits, with a written report after each one.
04Parts that fix it
05Frequently asked questions
How much power should my panels produce?
On a clear Kenyan day, expect roughly 4 to 5 kWh per kW of panels. Actual output depends on angle, shade and temperature.
Does rain clean solar panels?
Partly. Heavy rain helps, but dust films and bird droppings usually need a wash.
Can I add panels to my system?
Often, if the inverter's PV input has spare capacity. We check before adding.
