Orphaned Solar Systems – We’re Here to Help
Unfortunately, many homeowners today are left with “orphaned” solar systems—installations where the original company has gone out of business, left the area, or simply stopped answering calls. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Thousands of families are left without support for repairs, warranty claims, or upgrades.
- Your installer is no longer in business
- Warranty or service agreements are not being honored
- You can’t get support for repairs, maintenance, or roof replacements
- Panels or inverters are failing and no one is taking responsibility
How CellSun Can Help
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Safe removal & reinstallation for roof repairs or replacements
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System diagnostics to identify performance issues
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Upgrades & retrofits with newer, more efficient equipment
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Ongoing service & support, backed by a company you can trust
Why Choose CellSun for Orphaned Systems?
Understanding the Orphaned Solar System Crisis
The solar industry has experienced explosive growth over the past decade, but with that growth has come an unfortunate side effect: thousands of abandoned solar installations known as "orphaned systems." These are solar installations where homeowners have lost access to their original installer's support, leaving them stranded with valuable but potentially problematic solar equipment.
of solar companies from 2010-2015 are no longer in business
estimated orphaned systems nationwide
average investment at risk per orphaned system
An orphaned solar system is any installation where the original company is no longer available to provide warranty service, maintenance, repairs, or technical support. This can happen when companies go out of business, merge with other companies, change their business focus, or simply stop serving residential customers.
Warning Signs Your System May Be Orphaned
Recognizing the early warning signs can help you take action before you're completely cut off from support:
🚫 Unresponsive Communication
Phone calls go unanswered, emails bounce back, or you receive automated responses with no follow-up from a real person.
📞 Disconnected Contact Information
Phone numbers are disconnected, websites are down, or physical office locations are abandoned.
⚠️ Warranty Claims Denied
Previously honored warranty claims are suddenly being rejected or ignored entirely.
🔧 No Scheduled Maintenance
Promised annual maintenance visits stop happening without explanation or rescheduling options.
💼 Business Changes
Company announcements about "restructuring," "new focus areas," or "strategic partnerships" often signal upcoming service changes.
🏢 Office Closures
Local offices close with services supposedly transferred to distant locations that prove unresponsive.
The Serious Consequences of Orphaned Systems
Having an orphaned solar system isn't just inconvenient—it can be costly and dangerous:
Voided Warranties
Without proper support, manufacturer warranties on panels and equipment may become unenforceable, leaving you responsible for expensive repairs or replacements.
Safety Hazards
Electrical issues, loose connections, or failing equipment can create fire hazards, electrocution risks, or property damage if not properly maintained.
Declining Performance
Without regular monitoring and maintenance, system performance degrades over time, reducing energy production and savings.
Code Compliance Issues
Electrical codes change over time, and orphaned systems may fall out of compliance, creating problems during home sales or inspections.
Roof Damage
Improperly maintained mounting systems can lead to roof leaks, structural damage, or expensive repairs when roof replacement is needed.
Insurance Problems
Insurance claims may be denied if systems aren't properly maintained or if there's no certified contractor to verify safe installation practices.
Decreased Home Value
Potential buyers may be deterred by solar systems without warranty support, or demand lower prices to account for potential future problems.
Upgrade Impossibility
Adding panels, installing battery storage, or modernizing equipment becomes much more complicated without original system documentation and support.
CellSun Solar's Comprehensive Adoption Solutions
At CellSun Solar, we specialize in "adopting" orphaned systems and providing the comprehensive support they need. Here's how we help:
Complete System Assessment
We thoroughly evaluate your system's current condition, performance, and safety. This includes electrical testing, panel inspection, mounting system review, and inverter diagnostics.
Documentation Recreation
Many orphaned systems lack proper documentation. We recreate system layouts, electrical diagrams, and equipment specifications needed for future service and upgrades.
Code Compliance Updates
We bring older systems up to current electrical codes and safety standards, ensuring continued compliance and insurance coverage.
Performance Optimization
Through cleaning, repairs, and system tuning, we restore lost performance and maximize your energy production and savings.
Ongoing Maintenance Programs
We offer comprehensive maintenance agreements including annual inspections, cleaning, monitoring, and priority repair service.
Warranty Restoration
Where possible, we help restore manufacturer warranties and provide our own service warranties on work performed.
System Modernization
Upgrade aging components with newer, more efficient technology including modern inverters, monitoring systems, and safety equipment.
Expansion Services
Add more panels, install battery storage, or integrate electric vehicle charging capabilities with your existing system.
Our Orphaned System Recovery Process
Initial Consultation & Assessment
We start with a detailed discussion about your system's history, current issues, and your goals. Then we conduct a comprehensive on-site evaluation of your equipment and installation.
System Documentation & Analysis
Our certified technicians create detailed documentation of your system configuration, test all components, and identify any safety or performance issues that need immediate attention.
Repair & Compliance Plan
We develop a prioritized plan addressing safety issues, code compliance updates, performance improvements, and any necessary repairs or upgrades.
Professional Restoration
Our licensed electricians and certified solar installers perform all necessary work to restore your system to optimal, safe operating condition.
Testing & Certification
We thoroughly test the restored system, obtain any required inspections, and provide you with complete documentation of all work performed.
Ongoing Support Setup
We establish monitoring systems, provide training on system operation, and set up ongoing maintenance schedules to prevent future issues.
Common Problems We Fix in Orphaned Systems
Electrical Issues
- Loose or corroded connections causing power loss
- Failed inverters or optimizers reducing system output
- Grounding problems creating safety hazards
- Outdated electrical components that need modernization
Mounting & Structural Problems
- Loose mounting rails or hardware
- Roof penetrations causing leaks
- Inadequate flashing or sealant failure
- Structural integrity issues with mounting systems
Performance & Monitoring
- Non-functional or outdated monitoring systems
- Dirty panels reducing energy production
- Shading issues from growing vegetation
- System design flaws limiting performance
Code & Compliance
- Outdated rapid shutdown devices
- Missing or inadequate system labeling
- Arc fault circuit protection updates
- Ground fault protection modernization
Preventing Future Orphaning
How to Avoid Becoming an Orphaned System Owner Again
When choosing a new solar partner, consider these factors to ensure long-term support:
- Company Stability: Choose established companies with strong financial backing and local presence
- Local Operations: Work with companies that have permanent local offices and service teams
- Comprehensive Warranties: Ensure both equipment and workmanship warranties are clearly defined and transferable
- Service Agreements: Establish clear ongoing maintenance and support agreements
- Documentation: Obtain complete system documentation including permits, layouts, and equipment specifications
- Multiple Support Channels: Verify the company offers multiple ways to contact them for service
- Industry Certifications: Work with certified installers who maintain current industry credentials
- References & Reviews: Check recent customer references and long-term satisfaction ratings
Frequently Asked Questions About Orphaned Systems
Costs vary significantly depending on the system's condition and needed repairs. Basic assessments start around $200-400, while comprehensive restoration can range from $2,000-8,000. However, this is typically much less expensive than replacing the entire system, and many repairs qualify for federal tax credits.
In many cases, yes. Manufacturer warranties on panels and equipment often remain valid regardless of the original installer. We work directly with manufacturers to restore warranty coverage where possible and provide our own warranties on all work we perform.
It depends on the system's condition. We recommend having any orphaned system professionally inspected immediately. Some issues like loose connections or aging components can create safety hazards that require prompt attention.
Properly restored and maintained systems actually increase home value. Buyers prefer solar installations with clear warranties and reliable support. We provide complete documentation that addresses buyer concerns about system reliability.
Often yes, but it depends on your roof space, electrical capacity, and existing system design. We evaluate expansion possibilities as part of our comprehensive assessment and can integrate new panels with existing systems when feasible.
This is one of the most common and urgent needs for orphaned system owners. We specialize in safely removing panels for roof work and professionally reinstalling them afterward. This service protects both your roof and solar investment.
If you suspect your solar system might be orphaned or heading in that direction, don't wait until you have an emergency. Early intervention can prevent safety hazards, protect your investment, and ensure continued energy savings. The longer orphaned systems go without professional attention, the more expensive and complicated restoration becomes.