Why Is My Solar Panel Leaking? The Real Problem Might Be the Frost Valve
Are you seeing water leaking from your solar hot water system and wondering if something's broken? If you live in Melton, Tarneit, Caroline Springs, Rockbank, Truganina, or surrounding areas, this is a common issue—especially during the colder months.
As a licensed plumber servicing western and northern Melbourne, I often get calls like:
“Water’s pouring from my solar panel—what’s going on?”
“There’s a leak from the top of the Chromagen system—should I be worried?”
What Is a Frost Valve and Why Does It Leak?
Most solar hot water systems, like Chromagen, are equipped with a frost valve (also called an anti-freeze valve). Its job is to prevent water inside the panel from freezing during cold nights—which can crack pipes and damage your system.
But here’s the catch:
Frost valves can fail or open prematurely, especially on chilly but not freezing mornings.
Once they’re triggered, they often keep leaking, wasting water and potentially increasing your water bills.
Common Signs of a Faulty Frost Valve:
Dripping or flowing water from the top of your solar panel in the morning
Water pooling on the roof or ground beneath the system
Only happens in winter or on cold mornings
You own a Chromagen, Solahart, or similar roof-mounted system
Why It's a Problem (And Not Normal)
While occasional discharge is normal during freezing conditions, constant leaking is not. A stuck or worn-out frost valve needs to be replaced. If left alone, it can:
Waste hundreds of litres of water
Lead to higher water bills
Cause roof or structural water damage
The Fix: Professional Frost Valve Replacement
If you're in Melton, Tarneit, Caroline Springs, or any of the nearby suburbs and notice this issue, get it checked by a qualified plumber. I carry replacement frost valves for most major brands, including Chromagen, and can swap it out quickly—saving you stress and water.
Areas We Service:
Melton
Tarneit
Caroline Springs
Rockbank
Truganina
Deer Park
Hoppers Crossing
Burnside
Brookfield
Surrounding western and northern Melbourne suburbs
Book a Frost Valve Inspection Today
Don't ignore that leak—it’s your solar hot water system asking for help. If you’re in Melbourne’s west or north and need fast, professional service, get in touch today. We’ll have your system back in top shape in no time.
Call 0405 900 418