Solar Education · Inspections
Solar Inspection:
What to Expect
A professional solar inspection covers six categories and 30+ checkpoints. Here's exactly what we inspect, why each item matters, and what happens when we find a problem — so you know what you're getting before you schedule.
Most solar inspections we perform in Fresno, Clovis, and Madera are on systems that haven't been professionally inspected since installation. The homeowner noticed their electricity charges creeping back up, or their monitoring app showed a drop in production, or they're preparing to sell their home. In most cases, we find at least one issue that's costing them money.
Here's exactly what a Robbins Energy solar inspection covers — every category, every checkpoint, and why it matters.
Output & Performance
- Clamp meter measurement of actual DC and AC output
- Comparison to expected output under current conditions
- String-level current measurement (string inverter systems)
- Panel-level production review (microinverter/optimizer systems)
- Year-over-year production comparison from monitoring data
Inverter
- Error code review and documentation
- Thermal inspection (inverter temperature under load)
- Fan operation check (if applicable)
- Capacitor condition assessment (visual and electrical)
- MPPT tracking verification
- Communication and monitoring connectivity check
DC Wiring & Connectors
- Visual inspection of all accessible wiring for UV degradation
- MC4 connector inspection and torque check
- Junction box inspection (seals, connections, moisture)
- Conduit integrity check
- Ground fault test
- Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) function test
Roof & Mounting
- Roof penetration sealant inspection
- Mounting hardware torque check
- Panel alignment and levelness check
- Racking condition inspection (corrosion, cracking)
- Roof surface condition around array
- Evidence of water intrusion (attic inspection if accessible)
AC Side
- Disconnect switch operation
- AC wiring and conduit inspection
- Production meter check
- Main panel connection inspection
- Utility interconnection equipment check
Monitoring & Documentation
- Monitoring system connectivity verification
- Alert configuration review
- System documentation review (permits, interconnection agreement)
- Written inspection report with findings
- Repair quote if issues found
What Happens After the Inspection
Written Report
You receive a written inspection report documenting every finding — what we checked, what we found, and our assessment. This is useful for your records, insurance, and home sale disclosure.
Repair Quote
If we find issues that need repair, we provide a written, itemized quote on the spot. No pressure — you decide whether to proceed. Minor adjustments are often completed during the inspection visit.
Maintenance Plan
We provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance — cleaning frequency, next inspection timeline, and any components to watch. You leave with a clear picture of your system's health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a solar inspection take?
A thorough solar inspection typically takes 1.5–3 hours depending on system size and what's found. We don't rush — a proper inspection requires time to measure output, inspect wiring, check the roof, and review monitoring data. We'll give you a time estimate when you schedule.
Do I need to be home for the solar inspection?
Yes — we need access to your electrical panel, inverter, and attic (if accessible). We also walk you through our findings at the end of the inspection, so your presence is important.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
We document all findings in a written report and provide a repair quote on the spot. You decide whether to proceed with repairs — there's no pressure. If we find something that requires immediate attention (like an arc fault or ground fault), we'll explain the urgency clearly.
How much does a solar inspection cost in Fresno?
We charge a flat service call fee for the inspection. If repairs are needed, we provide a separate written quote. Contact us for current pricing.
Can I get a solar inspection before selling my home in Fresno?
Yes — and we recommend it. A pre-sale solar inspection documents the system's condition, provides written evidence of proper maintenance, and can prevent surprises during the buyer's inspection. We provide a written report suitable for disclosure.
What's the difference between a solar inspection and a solar tune-up?
An inspection is diagnostic — we assess the system's condition and identify issues. A tune-up includes the inspection plus any minor adjustments, cleaning recommendations, and monitoring reconfiguration. Major repairs (inverter replacement, wiring repair) are quoted separately.
Ready to Schedule Your Inspection?
We serve Fresno, Clovis, Madera, and 70+ Central Valley communities. Licensed contractor #1063682.
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