The seven primary defects include microcracks (tiny cell fractures from handling or thermal stress), delamination (layer separation allowing moisture intrusion), hotspots (localized overheating from shading or diode failure), snail trails (dark streaks from chemical reactions) . The seven primary defects include microcracks (tiny cell fractures from handling or thermal stress), delamination (layer separation allowing moisture intrusion), hotspots (localized overheating from shading or diode failure), snail trails (dark streaks from chemical reactions) . Learn about the most common defects affecting solar panels, including delamination, micro-cracks, hotspots, snail trails, PID, and how to address them for optimal performance. Solar panels are often viewed as highly reliable, with lifespans exceeding 25 years and the ability to withstand extreme. With the wider adoption of photovoltaic technology, more users are also becoming aware of the common solar panel issues and potential risks associated with long-term operation. Solar Panels Efficiency Issues Solar panels sometimes struggle to convert sunlight into usable energy efficiently due to various factors. These include improper installation, shading from objects, and dirt accumulation. Fortunately, there. You might see solar panel damage if you spot cracks, hotspots, or color changes on your system. It leads to corrosion and eventually to the failure of a PV module.