Repair vs Replace: Making the Right Choice for Your Solar Panels – Solarsmith® Guide

Charlie Smith
Aug 12
2 min read

If your solar system isn’t performing as it should, you might wonder: is it better to repair what you have or replace it entirely?

At Solarsmith®, we help homeowners across Surrey, Sussex, and South London make informed decisions that balance cost, performance, and long-term value.

Step 1: Assess Current Performance

Check your system’s output against its expected generation. Use your monitoring system or generation meter to spot any consistent under-performance. Normal efficiency loss is around 0.5% per year, but sudden drops often indicate a fault. (Energy Saving Trust)

Step 2: Weigh Repair Costs vs Replacement

Repairs – such as replacing an inverter or fixing wiring – can be far cheaper than a full reinstallation. Inverter replacements typically cost £500–£1,500 and can extend your system’s life by 10+ years.

Panel repairs or swaps may cost less than upgrading the whole array. (NHBC guidance)

Step 3: Identify When Replacement is Best

Full or partial replacement is worth considering if:

Your system is over 20 years old and output has significantly dropped
Multiple panels are damaged or degraded
You want to upgrade to a hybrid inverter for battery storage compatibility (UK Government Solar Roadmap)

Step 4: Factor in Energy Savings and ROI

Repairs can quickly restore performance, while replacements may offer higher efficiency and faster payback if you choose the latest technology.

Consider your home’s energy use, current tariffs, and whether adding battery storage could further cut bills.

Step 5: Get a Professional Assessment

A qualified solar technician can run diagnostics to find the most cost-effective route. At Solarsmith®, we offer honest recommendations, transparent quotes, and solutions tailored to your property and budget.

Make the Right Choice with Solarsmith®Whether you need a simple repair or a full system upgrade, we provide: