If your solar monitoring app suddenly stopped working—or never worked at all—you’re not alone.
Monitoring issues are one of the most common (and frustrating) problems solar homeowners experience. The good news? In many cases, your system may still be producing power, even if you can’t see it.
This guide walks through the most common reasons solar monitoring fails, how to tell if your system is still working, and what options you have if monitoring can’t be restored.
Why Solar Monitoring Stops Working
There are several common reasons homeowners lose access to solar monitoring:
1. Your Installer Never Fully Set It Up
This happens more often than people realize.
Monitoring setup is sometimes treated as a “last step” during installation. If the installer rushed, changed staff, or didn’t complete commissioning properly, the monitoring account may never have been activated under your name.
This is especially common when:
- You bought a home with an existing solar system
- The installer installed the hardware but never completed customer onboarding
- Login credentials were sent to a previous homeowner or lost
2. Your Installer Went Out of Business or Filed for Bankruptcy
Unfortunately, this has become increasingly common in the solar industry.
In many bankruptcy or shutdown cases:
- Monitoring accounts are sold or transferred to another company
- Ongoing access may require a new paid subscription
- Homeowners are not always clearly informed
Real-world example:
Some SunPower customers had full panel-level monitoring included originally. After SunPower’s bankruptcy, many homeowners received emails stating that monitoring would now be handled by SunStrong, and that continued access required a monthly subscription to maintain the same level of visibility.
If you ignored those emails—or never received them—your monitoring may simply be inactive, not broken.
3. Internet or Communication Issues
Monitoring depends on your system’s ability to “talk” to the cloud.
Common causes:
- Router or Wi-Fi changes
- Password updates
- ISP changes
- Cellular monitoring modules that were never reactivated
If your inverter can’t communicate, monitoring will appear offline even if the system is producing power.
Important: Just Because You Can’t See It, Doesn’t Mean It’s Not Working
Before assuming the worst, it’s critical to confirm whether your system is actually producing solar.
Here’s how to check — even without monitoring.
How to Tell If Your Solar System Is Producing Power
1. Check Your Utility Bill
Your utility bill is one of the most reliable indicators.
Look for:
- A net usage or net metering section
- Credits labeled “Solar,” “Net Generation,” or “Exported Energy”
- Lower daytime usage compared to similar homes
If your bill shows reduced consumption or credits during sunny months, your solar is likely working.
2. Call Your Utility Company
This is especially helpful if you bought a house with solar.
Ask:
- Is this property enrolled in a net metering or interconnection agreement?
- When was solar first interconnected?
- Is the system currently exporting energy to the grid?
Utilities keep detailed records tied to the property—not the homeowner—and can often confirm production history.
Pro tip: This could also be its own future support article: “What to Do When You Buy a House With Solar.”
3. Check the Inverter Lights
Most inverters have a simple status indicator.
- Green / Solid Light → System is operating normally
- Blinking or Yellow → Possible communication issue
- Red or No Light → Potential system fault (time to call a professional)
If the inverter is on and showing normal operation, chances are your system is producing power.
4. Watch the Net Meter (Old-School but Effective)
If you have a net meter:
- Turn off as many loads in your home as possible
- Do this during full daylight
- Watch the meter
If the meter:
- Slows significantly, or
- “Spins backward” (older analog meters)
That’s a strong sign your system is producing solar.
Try This First: Safely Power Cycle Your Solar System
Like any electronic device, sometimes solar equipment just needs a reset.
How to Power Cycle Safely
⚠️ If you’re unsure, stop and contact a professional.
- Turn OFF the AC disconnect (usually near the inverter or main panel)
- Turn OFF the DC disconnect (often on or near the inverter)
- Wait 3–5 minutes
- Turn the DC disconnect back ON
- Turn the AC disconnect back ON
This can restore communication and clear minor faults.
What If Monitoring Can’t Be Restored?
If OEM monitoring is unavailable, discontinued, or locked behind a subscription, you still have options.
Install Third-Party Monitoring (Like an eGauge)
Third-party monitoring systems can:
- Track production and consumption
- Provide visibility independent of the original installer
- Work even if the OEM portal is unavailable
Pros:
- Regain visibility
- Works with many inverter types
Cons:
- Additional cost
- Less detailed than some panel-level OEM systems
This option is best for homeowners who value insight but can’t access original monitoring.
When to Call a Solar Professional
You should contact a qualified solar service company if:
- The inverter shows a fault or error
- There’s no sign of production anywhere
- You suspect wiring, hardware, or safety issues
- You want help restoring or replacing monitoring
Look for service-first solar companies, not just installers focused on new sales.
Final Thoughts
Solar monitoring issues are frustrating—but they don’t always mean your system has stopped working.
Start by confirming production, then work backward:
- Verify production
- Check utility records
- Inspect inverter status
- Reset safely
- Explore monitoring alternatives
And remember: visibility is helpful, but production is what really matters.
If you need help finding a trusted solar service provider in your area, EnergyScout can help connect you with companies that specialize in diagnostics, monitoring, and long-term system support.