Solar Panel Not Working
Chromagen Solar Water Heater
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
Check the collector temperature (T2) on the controller on a hot sunny day — it should reach 60–90°C or higher. If T2 stays near air temperature, the panel is not collecting heat or the collector sensor has failed. If T2 rises but the tank stays cold, the pump is not circulating.
Affected Models
- Chromagen CR Series
- Chromagen Optima
- Chromagen Crown
- Chromagen Prisma
Common Causes
- Shading from new structures, tree growth, or debris on panels
- Scale or sediment buildup inside evacuated tubes
- Cracked or broken evacuated tubes (vacuum lost)
- Collector sensor fault giving a false low temperature reading
- Panels at wrong angle or facing away from the sun
How to Fix It
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Check the T2 (collector) reading on the controller.
On a hot sunny day, T2 should reach 60–90°C. If it stays near air temperature (25–35°C), the panel is not collecting heat or the collector sensor is faulty.
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Inspect the panels for shading.
Walk outside and look at the panels during peak sun hours (10am–2pm). Any shade from a chimney, antenna, or tree branch dramatically reduces output.
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Check for visibly broken evacuated tubes.
A broken tube loses its vacuum and appears opaque white or grey inside instead of dark blue/black. Count the damaged ones — each reduces output by roughly 5%.
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Rinse dust and debris from the panels.
A heavy coating of dust or bird droppings can reduce output by 20–40%. Rinse panels with a garden hose on a cool morning (never when the panels are hot).
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Arrange a professional flush if the system is over 5 years old.
Scale deposits inside the tubes or header pipe reduce efficiency gradually. A technician can flush the system with descaling solution to restore performance.
When to Call a Professional
Cracked evacuated tubes and descaling both require a licensed solar technician. Never handle evacuated glass tubes yourself — they can implode.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many broken tubes will stop the system heating?
Evacuated tube systems lose roughly 5% capacity per broken tube. With 20 tubes, 4 broken ones means 20% less output — noticeable in winter. Replace broken tubes promptly.
Can I replace a broken evacuated tube myself?
Technically yes — the tubes slot in and out of the header manifold. However, evacuated glass tubes can implode under pressure changes. Exercise caution and refer to the Chromagen service guide or hire a technician.