Categories Homeowner Solar Guides, Solar Repair

Solar Repair: If Your Installer Closed Down

Screenshot of an AEO fast-answer snippet box from a Live Oak Energy Systems blog post detailing how to get residential solar repairs in Charleston, SC if an installation company went bankrupt or out of business.

What to Do If Your Solar Installer Went Out of Business

Discovering that the company that installed your home solar system has gone out of business or filed for bankruptcy is incredibly frustrating. Over the last few years, major national and regional brands like Titan Solar Power, Vision Solar, Pink Energy, Empire Solar, and Infinity Energy have completely shut their doors. Legacy customers of older systems like SolarCity are finding support non-existent, and even major industry giants like SunPower and ADT Solar have entirely exited the market.

If your monitoring app has gone dark, or if an error light is blinking on your inverter, you aren’t just losing out on clean energy, you’re watching your utility bills spike while wondering who to call. Even if your system is tied to a billing ecosystem or financier like Sunnova, if the original physical installer went out of business, getting a technician out to your roof can feel impossible.

The good news is that your system is completely salvageable.

What happens if my solar company goes out of business and my panels break? If your solar installer went out of business or filed for bankruptcy, your physical equipment warranties (panels, inverters, and battery storage) remain 100% valid because they are backed directly by the manufacturers (like Enphase, SolarEdge, Tesla, or Qcells). However, the manufacturer does not cover the local diagnostic labor. To fix your system, you must hire an independent, certified local service provider to diagnose the electrical fault, file the manufacturer paperwork (an RMA claim), and handle the physical roof repair.

At Live Oak Energy Systems, we don’t focus on selling new systems, we specialize grid-by-grid in the diagnostic repair, maintenance, and optimization of existing solar arrays. Whether you were left stranded by a national bankruptcy or a contractor who closed down, here is exactly how to protect your investment and get your power back.

The Reality Check: What’s Still Active vs. What’s Voided?

When a solar contractor closes their doors, your protection plan splits into two categories. It helps to understand exactly what you still own and what has been lost in the bankruptcy courts:

Protection TypeOriginal IssuerCurrent Status After Installer Bankruptcy
Equipment WarrantyHardware Manufacturer (Enphase, SolarEdge, Tesla, etc.)100% Protected. Valid for 12 to 25 years from original deployment.
Workmanship WarrantyYour Closed Installer (e.g., Titan, Vision, Pink)Voided. Discharged through bankruptcy court.
Roof Penetration GuaranteeYour Closed InstallerVoided. Requires a specialized local physical inspection to ensure seal integrity.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a System After a Solar Bankruptcy

Getting your solar power restored doesn’t have to be a headache. Even if you don’t know where to start, Live Oak Energy Systems handles the entire process for you from start to finish. Here is exactly how we get your system back up and running:

1. Take a quick look at your inverter hardware: Identify the Equipment.

Don’t worry if you can’t find your original contract or paperwork. Our team can quickly identify your system type just by looking at the physical hardware installed on your wall or under your panels (most commonly SolarEdge or Enphase).

2. Let us restore your digital app access: Regain System Monitoring.

If your app is completely locked out or you never received login credentials from your original installer, you don’t have to navigate it alone. We work directly with the manufacturers to transfer system ownership and restore your digital monitoring access.

3. Book a comprehensive physical inspection: Schedule Field Diagnostics.

Contact our local service team. Because your original workmanship warranty is gone, our certified technicians will physically test your roof voltages, trace electrical faults, and isolate exactly why the system isn’t producing power.

4. Process the hardware replacement: File Manufacturer RMA Claims.

Once we pinpoint the broken component, Live Oak files the diagnostic reports directly with the manufacturer to verify the hardware defect. We secure your free replacement part under your active equipment warranty and handle the physical reinstall. You can check your manufacturer guidelines directly on the official Enphase Warranty Page or verify your hardware lifespan using the online SolarEdge Inverter Warranty Checker.

Why Choose a Specialized Repair Team Over an Installer?

Most active solar installation companies are built for speed, their crews are trained to slap new panels on a roof, not troubleshoot a complex electrical fault on an old one. In fact, many standard solar companies refuse to touch another builder’s work due to liability.

Live Oak Energy Systems is different. We focus purely on diagnostics, repair, and maintenance. Our certified technicians have years of experience tracking down hidden wiring issues, resolving inverter faults, and safely inspecting your array without causing damage to your roof. We treat your home with the care it deserves.

Serving Homeowners Across South Carolina and Georgia

  • The Coastal Empire: Savannah, GA and surrounding communities

  • The Lowcountry Coast: Hilton Head Island and Beaufort, SC

  • The Midlands: Columbia, SC and surrounding areas

Schedule a System Diagnostics Check with Live Oak

Don’t let a closed installation company mean a dead solar array. Contact Live Oak Energy Systems today to schedule a thorough diagnostic check and get your clean energy investment producing power again.

Categories Solar Maintenance

Spring Solar Maintenance for Peak Performance

Installing solar is a long-term investment, but like any major home system, it performs best with ongoing care.

Many homeowners ask: Do solar systems need maintenance? How often should a solar system be inspected?

The answer is yes. While solar systems are relatively low maintenance, low maintenance does not mean no maintenance. Over time, weather, debris, and normal wear can impact performance and reduce the savings your system is designed to deliver.

Understanding what your system needs over time helps protect your investment, extend equipment life, and keep energy production consistent year after year.

Do Solar Systems Need Maintenance?

Yes. Regular solar maintenance services help keep your system operating safely and efficiently.

Routine service helps:

  • protect long-term energy savings
  • catch small issues before they become costly repairs
  • extend panel, inverter, and wiring lifespan
  • maintain warranty requirements
  • improve system safety and reliability

In South Carolina and Georgia, systems are exposed to heat, humidity, pollen, salt air, storms, and seasonal debris, all of which can affect performance over time.

When Should a Solar System Be Inspected?

For most residential systems, a professional solar system inspection once per year is best practice.

Spring is one of the best times to schedule a solar system check, as it allows homeowners to identify any winter storm debris, pollen buildup, or minor performance issues before the highest-production months of the year.

An annual inspection typically includes:

  • system performance check to verify output
  • visual inspection for wear, corrosion, or damage
  • inverter health check to ensure proper communication
  • monitoring review for drops in production
  • panel condition check for dirt, debris, and shading

For coastal homes or systems with heavy tree cover, more frequent inspections may be beneficial.

Why Preventive Maintenance Matters

Preventive maintenance helps catch issues before they impact your electric bill or require larger repairs.

Common issues include:

  • dirt and pollen buildup
  • debris from storms
  • inverter faults
  • loose wiring or worn connections
  • gradual drops in system output

Even minor solar performance issues can add up over time in lost energy savings.

Solar Maintenance Cost vs. Repair Cost

Many homeowners wait until the system stops producing before calling for service. In many cases, preventive maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs or even months of partial production loss.

A system running below capacity can lead to:

  • higher utility bills
  • reduced solar savings
  • avoidable repair costs

Long-Term Protection with Solar Shield

At Live Oak Energy Systems, our Solar Shield protection and performance plans are designed to keep your system running at its best.

Solar Shield includes proactive care such as:

  • annual system performance checks
  • visual system inspections
  • inverter health checks
  • 24/7 system monitoring

For homeowners in South Carolina and Georgia, this helps prevent unexpected repairs, extend system lifespan, and maximize long-term savings.

With spring here and peak sun season approaching, now is the perfect time to schedule maintenance and ensure your system is ready for maximum production and savings.

Categories Solar Performance

Solar System Not Producing Power?

If your solar system suddenly stops producing power, it can be hard to tell whether something is actually wrong or if production has simply dropped due to weather or seasonal changes.

Many homeowners start asking the same questions: Is my solar system working? Why is my solar system not producing? What does it mean if my solar system shows “offline”?

Understanding a few basics about how solar systems behave throughout the year can help you quickly tell the difference between normal fluctuations and a real system issue.

Quick Basics: What “Normal” Looks Like

Solar production changes with the seasons. Systems typically produce more power in summer and less in winter as daylight hours shorten. Over time, panels also lose a small amount of efficiency, usually about 0.5% per year. Your monitoring app is the best tool for tracking these trends and comparing current production with past performance.

How to Check If Your Solar System Is Not Producing Power?

Start with these easy checks:

  1. Check your monitoring app or dashboard

  2. Inspect the inverter

    • Usually located in a garage or near the panels.

    • Green lights: normal operation.

    • Red or flashing lights: possible fault.

    • A soft hum during daylight is normal.

  3. Check your utility meter and bill

    • With net metering, your meter may spin backward or show credits on sunny days.

    • Programs are regulated through agencies like the South Carolina Energy Office and the Georgia Public Service Commission.

    • Check your recent utility bills. An increase in energy usage or charges may indicate your solar system isn’t producing.

  4. Quick visual check

    • Look for dirt, debris, storm damage, or new shading from trees or buildings.

    If everything looks normal but production is lower, the drop is often seasonal rather than a system failure.

What Does “Offline” Mean?

Zero production (even on sunny days) = offline. This is serious, and call a pro. Common causes:

  • Inverter failure
  • Wiring/breaker issues
  • Grid/communication problems

Red flags: No app data for 24+ hours, error codes (e.g., “No Grid”), full reliance on utility power.

Underperforming vs. Seasonal Dip vs. True Failure

ScenarioProduction LevelCommon Causes
Seasonal Dip50–80% of peakShorter days, clouds, lower sun angle
Underperformance70–90% of expectedDirt, shading, minor inverter or panel issues
Fully Offline0%Inverter or wiring failure

Seasonal dips are normal. However, regular solar panel maintenance helps keep your system performing at its best by preventing buildup from dirt, debris, or shading that can reduce output over time. You can estimate what your system should be producing using the PVWatts Calculator.

When to Call Live Oak Energy Systems

If checks point to a problem (or you’re unsure), contact us. We specialize in diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance work. Many issues are covered under 25-year panel / 10–12-year inverter warranties. Delaying can mean lost savings or risks.

Have questions? Give us a call. We’re here to help keep your system shining!

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Call (843) 487-0697

  • 3501 Iron Horse Dr Ladson, SC 29456
  • 843-487-0697
  • info@liveoakenergysystems.com
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SOLAR SYSTEM ANNUAL SERVICE AGREEMENT–PRO

This Solar System Annual Service Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (the “Company”), and the individual or entity completing checkout (the “Owner”), for the annual maintenance and monitoring of the Solar System (“System”) located at the property address provided at checkout (“Property Address”).

SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Contractor agrees to perform one (1) comprehensive annual preventative maintenance visit to inspect the System including, but not limited to:

  • Annual System Performance Check

  • Visual System Inspection

  • Inverter Health Check

  • Energy Production Report

  • Significant Wiring & Connection Check

  • Accessible Roof Penetration & Attic Water Intrusion Inspection

  • 24/7 System Monitoring

  • 8% Discount on Repairs

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

Any and all repairs or scope of work outside the maintenance included herein, if any, shall only be provided upon the execution of a Project Agreement with Company which will be provided with any quote for repairs after inspections. Company shall not be responsible for any other scope of work without the parties’ execution of a Project Agreement for that certain work. Any and all other work not outlined herein, and included in any executed Project Agreement, shall be performed in accordance with the applicable Project Agreement.

PRICING & AUTO RENEWAL

The pricing and billing frequency (Monthly or Annual) selected by Owner at checkout are incorporated into this Agreement by reference.

This Agreement is valid for a 12-month term (“Term”) commencing on the date of first payment. If Owner selects a monthly billing option, payments shall be charged on a recurring monthly basis during the Term. If Owner selects an annual billing option, payment shall be made in full at the commencement of the Term.

This Agreement shall automatically renew for successive one (1) year terms unless either party provides written notice at cancellations@liveoakenergysystems.com of non-renewal to the other party at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

LIMITATIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Roof Integrity: This Agreement covers the solar equipment only; it does not cover the maintenance or repair of the underlying roof surface.

Force Majeure: Contractor is not responsible for damage caused by “Acts of God” (e.g., hail, lightning, extreme wind) but is available by separate agreement to assist in documentation for insurance claims.

AUTHORIZATION

The Owner agrees to provide safe access to the roof and electrical main panels during the scheduled service window.

The Owner agrees to have active internet/WiFi on-site. The site’s internet connectivity may affect certain provisions of this Agreement.

At the 1st service visit, Live Oak Energy Systems will assess the system’s ability to connect to the internet. If needed, Live Oak Energy Systems will provide a separate scope of work and Project Agreement for such connections.

ENTIRE AGREEMENT, SEVERABILITY, AND MODIFICATION

This Agreement represents and contains the entire agreement between the parties. Prior discussions or verbal representations by the parties that are not contained in this Agreement are not a part of this Agreement. All modifications to this Agreement must be made in writing and be signed by both parties to be enforceable. The determination by any court or body that any section of this Agreement is unenforceable shall have no effect on the remaining portions of this Agreement and shall be considered by both parties to be legal and binding.

APPLICABLE LAW

This Agreement is entered into under the laws of South Carolina, and the laws of this state shall apply to any actions taken under this Agreement.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Company shall only be liable to Client for any amounts paid to Company for the Scope of Services provided herein. In no event shall Company be liable for any defects or damages that exist prior to the Scope of Work provided herein. Company shall not be liable for any pre-existing condition of the System. Any and all other work provided under a Project Agreement shall be done pursuant to that Project Agreement which will supersede this Agreement.

EXECUTION

This Agreement may be executed in separate parts or portions by facsimile, e-mail, electronic transmittal or any other form of electronic transference, but each party shall attain a fully executed copy for their records. It is understood that each Party may execute this Agreement individually, and all copies signed shall be considered one document for purposes of the parties and this Agreement.

ACCEPTANCE OF AGREEMENT

By checking the acceptance box and completing payment at checkout, the Owner acknowledges that they have read and understand this Agreement in its entirety and agree to be bound by all terms and conditions contained herein. This Agreement shall become effective upon Owner’s completion of payment. Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC is bound by this Agreement upon issuance and performance of the services described herein.

SOLAR SYSTEM ANNUAL SERVICE AGREEMENT–STARTER

This Solar System Annual Service Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (the “Company”), and the individual or entity completing checkout (the “Owner”), for the annual maintenance and monitoring of the Solar System (“System”) located at the property address provided at checkout (“Property Address”).

SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Contractor agrees to perform one (1) comprehensive annual preventative maintenance visit to inspect the System including, but not limited to:

  • Annual System Performance Check

  • Visual System Inspection

  • Inverter Health Check

  • Energy Production Report

  • 24/7 System Monitoring

  • 5% Discount on Repairs

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

Any and all repairs or scope of work outside the maintenance included herein, if any, shall only be provided upon the execution of a Project Agreement with Company which will be provided with any quote for repairs after inspections. Company shall not be responsible for any other scope of work without the parties’ execution of a Project Agreement for that certain work. Any and all other work not outlined herein, and included in any executed Project Agreement, shall be performed in accordance with the applicable Project Agreement.

PRICING & AUTO RENEWAL

The pricing and billing frequency (Monthly or Annual) selected by Owner at checkout are incorporated into this Agreement by reference.

This Agreement is valid for a 12-month term (“Term”) commencing on the date of first payment. If Owner selects a monthly billing option, payments shall be charged on a recurring monthly basis during the Term. If Owner selects an annual billing option, payment shall be made in full at the commencement of the Term.

This Agreement shall automatically renew for successive one (1) year terms unless either party provides written notice at cancellations@liveoakenergysystems.com of non-renewal to the other party at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

LIMITATIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Roof Integrity: This Agreement covers the solar equipment only; it does not cover the maintenance or repair of the underlying roof surface.

Force Majeure: Contractor is not responsible for damage caused by “Acts of God” (e.g., hail, lightning, extreme wind) but is available by separate agreement to assist in documentation for insurance claims.

AUTHORIZATION

The Owner agrees to provide safe access to the roof and electrical main panels during the scheduled service window.

The Owner agrees to have active internet/WiFi on-site. The site’s internet connectivity may affect certain provisions of this Agreement.

At the 1st service visit, Live Oak Energy Systems will assess the system’s ability to connect to the internet. If needed, Live Oak Energy Systems will provide a separate scope of work and Project Agreement for such connections.

ENTIRE AGREEMENT, SEVERABILITY, AND MODIFICATION

This Agreement represents and contains the entire agreement between the parties. Prior discussions or verbal representations by the parties that are not contained in this Agreement are not a part of this Agreement. All modifications to this Agreement must be made in writing and be signed by both parties to be enforceable. The determination by any court or body that any section of this Agreement is unenforceable shall have no effect on the remaining portions of this Agreement and shall be considered by both parties to be legal and binding.

APPLICABLE LAW

This Agreement is entered into under the laws of South Carolina, and the laws of this state shall apply to any actions taken under this Agreement.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Company shall only be liable to Client for any amounts paid to Company for the Scope of Services provided herein. In no event shall Company be liable for any defects or damages that exist prior to the Scope of Work provided herein. Company shall not be liable for any pre-existing condition of the System. Any and all other work provided under a Project Agreement shall be done pursuant to that Project Agreement which will supersede this Agreement.

EXECUTION

This Agreement may be executed in separate parts or portions by facsimile, e-mail, electronic transmittal or any other form of electronic transference, but each party shall attain a fully executed copy for their records. It is understood that each Party may execute this Agreement individually, and all copies signed shall be considered one document for purposes of the parties and this Agreement.

ACCEPTANCE OF AGREEMENT

By checking the acceptance box and completing payment at checkout, the Owner acknowledges that they have read and understand this Agreement in its entirety and agree to be bound by all terms and conditions contained herein. This Agreement shall become effective upon Owner’s completion of payment. Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC is bound by this Agreement upon issuance and performance of the services described herein.

SOLAR SYSTEM ANNUAL SERVICE AGREEMENT–ELITE

This Solar System Annual Service Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC, a South Carolina limited liability company (the “Company”), and the individual or entity completing checkout (the “Owner”), for the annual maintenance and monitoring of the Solar System (“System”) located at the property address provided at checkout (“Property Address”).

SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Contractor agrees to perform one (1) comprehensive annual preventative maintenance visit to inspect the System including, but not limited to:

  • Annual System Performance Check
  • Visual System Inspection
  • Inverter Health Check
  • Energy Production Report
  • Significant Wiring & Connection Check
  • Accessible Roof Penetration & Attic Water Intrusion Inspection
  • Priority Service Scheduling
  • Pest & Debris Mitigation
  • Annual System Health Report
  • 24/7 System Monitoring
  • 10% Discount on Repairs

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

Any and all repairs or scope of work outside the maintenance included herein, if any, shall only be provided upon the execution of a Project Agreement with Company which will be provided with any quote for repairs after inspections. Company shall not be responsible for any other scope of work without the parties execution of a Project Agreement for that certain work. Any and all other work not outlined herein, and included in any executed Project Agreement, shall in accordance with the Project Agreement.

PRICING & AUTO RENEWAL

The pricing and billing frequency (Monthly or Annual) selected by Owner at checkout are incorporated into this Agreement by reference.

This agreement is valid for a 12-month term (“Term”) commencing on the date of first payment. If Owner selects a monthly billing option, payments shall be charged on a recurring monthly basis during the Term. If Owner selects an annual billing option, payment shall be made in full at the commencement of the Term.

This Agreement shall automatically renew for successive one (1) year terms unless either party provides written notice at cancellations@liveoakenergysystems.com
of non-renewal to the other party at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

LIMITATIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Roof Integrity: This agreement covers the solar equipment only; it does not cover the maintenance or repair of the underlying roof surface.

Force Majeure: Contractor is not responsible for damage caused by “Acts of God” (e.g., hail, lightning, extreme wind) but is available by separate agreement to assist in documentation for insurance claims.

AUTHORIZATION

The Owner agrees to provide safe access to the roof and electrical main panels during the scheduled service window.

The Owner agrees to have active internet/wifi on-site. The site’s internet connectivity may affect certain provisions of this agreement.

At the 1st service visit, Live Oak Energy Systems will assess the system’s ability to connect to the internet. If needed, Live Oak Energy Systems will provide a separate scope of work and Project Agreement for such connections.

ENTIRE AGREEMENT, SEVERABILITY, AND MODIFICATION

This Agreement represents and contains the entire agreement between the parties. Prior discussions or verbal representations by the parties that are not contained in this Agreement are not a part of this Agreement. All modifications to this Agreement must be made in writing and be signed by both parties to be enforceable. The determination by any court or body that any section of this Agreement is unenforceable, shall have no effect on the remaining portions of this Agreement and shall be considered by both parties to be legal and binding.

APPLICABLE LAW

This Agreement is entered into under the laws of South Carolina, and the laws of this state shall apply to any actions taken under this Agreement.

LIMITATION OF LIAIBILTY

Company shall only be liable to Client for any amounts paid to Company for the Scope of Services provided herein. In no event shall Company be liable for any defects or damages that exist prior to the Scope of Work provided herein. Company shall not be liable for any pre-existing condition of the System. Any and all other work provided under a Project Agreement shall be done pursuant to that Project Agreement which will supersede this Agreement.

EXECUTION

This Agreement may be executed in separate parts or portions by facsimile, e-mail, electronic transmittal or any other form of electronic transference, but each party shall attain a fully executed copy for their records. It is understood that each Party may execute this Agreement individually, and all copies signed shall be considered one document for purposes of the parties and this Agreement.

ACCEPTANCE OF AGREEMENT

By checking the acceptance box and completing payment at checkout, the Owner acknowledges that they have read and understand this Agreement in its entirety and agree to be bound by all terms and conditions contained herein. This Agreement shall become effective upon Owner’s completion of payment. Live Oak Energy Systems, LLC is bound by this Agreement upon issuance and performance of the services described herein.