Am I looking at power or energy?
Power, shown in kW, is a reading at a moment in time. Energy, shown in kWh, is production accumulated over a period. Comparing an afternoon kW reading with a daily kWh total will not tell you whether the system is performing normally.
For example, a steady 4 kW for two hours would equal 8 kWh. Real solar output varies through the day, so use the app’s recorded energy total when reviewing a full day.
What is a useful comparison?
Compare your own system over similar periods and consider weather, season, shading, and changes in the property. Save the production view, its date range, and any alerts. Your neighbor’s panel count alone is not a reliable benchmark for your array.
If you have the original production estimate, keep it with your records. A contractor can review the system and monitoring context before drawing conclusions from a shortfall.
When should I request service?
A persistent error, an unexplained change from prior operation, or suspected physical damage is a reason to ask for a review. Do not climb up or open equipment to gather information.
If data is stale, explain that specifically. If the reading is current but low, send the period being compared. This distinction helps a professional understand whether your concern starts with monitoring or generation.
What can a professional review?
For a DFW service request, share your location, app name, equipment details if available, and the change you noticed. The initial conversation establishes what further information or service may be needed; it is not a remote certification of system condition.