Australian owners of solar PV cells have been urged to have their panels checked in 2019, with Master Electricians Australia warning that roof-top electrical systems are not a “set and forget” item.

MEA Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Richards said solar installations had been a very good investment for thousands of Australian families, but like any other asset they needed to be maintained.

“We know from experience that 25 per cent of panels that are over five years old, and that haven’t been checked, have stopped working,” Mr Richards said.

“We also know that some of the older installations used isolators that have subsequently been recalled because they pose a fire risk. Solar panels were responsible for 28 house fires in Queensland alone last year.

“So if you have a solar system that’s more than five years old, make sure you have it checked by a Master Electrician in 2019.”

Mr Richards said regular visual inspections were also important to ensure panels were not gathering leaves and debris and didn’t have animals nesting underneath them.

However, he warned home owners against attempting to undertake their own maintenance.

“Solar power systems are generating electricity, and you can be injured or killed if you don’t know what you’re doing.

“Don’t put yourself at risk – call an expert to ensure that your solar panels are functioning properly and safely.”