Using Aerial Photography and Infrared for Inspecting Roof Solar Panels:

Location: First Presbyterian Church of Valparaiso, IN

As solar energy becomes more common in residential and commercial properties, the need for proper inspection and maintenance is more important than ever. Solar panels are a significant investment, and like any system exposed to the elements, they require regular monitoring to ensure peak performance. One of the most effective ways to do this is with aerial photography combined with infrared (thermal) imaging.

The Challenges of Solar Panel Inspections:

Solar panels are typically installed on rooftops or large commercial buildings, making them difficult and often dangerous to inspect up close. Traditional inspection methods involve ladders, scaffolding, or walking on the roof. Additionally, many problems with solar panels are not visible to the naked eye. Cracks, faulty wiring, or malfunctioning cells often show no obvious surface damage, making early detection challenging.

Aerial Photography: The First Look:

Using drones, inspectors can capture high-resolution images of entire solar arrays from above. Aerial photos give homeowners and property managers clear documentation without the need to set foot on the roof.

Infrared Imaging: Revealing the Hidden Issues:

While aerial photos are valuable, infrared (IR) imaging takes inspections a step further. Infrared cameras detect heat patterns across solar panels, revealing issues invisible to the eye, such as:

  • Hot Spots – Areas where cells overheat due to malfunctioning connections or damage.
  • Wiring Faults – Uneven heat signatures that may indicate poor connections or inverter problems.
  • Degraded Panels – Early detection of panels losing efficiency before the problem becomes costly.

By capturing these thermal anomalies, inspectors can pinpoint which panels need maintenance or replacement—saving both energy production losses and repair costs.

A Smarter Way to Protect Your Investment:

Solar panels are designed to last decades, but only if they’re properly maintained. Aerial photography combined with infrared imaging is the modern, cost-effective solution to ensuring solar systems remain efficient, safe, and reliable.

At Falcon Vision DSP, LLC, we specialize in providing high-quality aerial and infrared inspections that give property owners peace of mind and protect their investment in clean energy.