TIPS FOR SOLAR PANEL MAINTENANCE

One of the advantages of using solar system is that it requires very little maintenance. With no moving parts, solar installations degrade slightly over time. The durability of solar panels has increased over the last few years as technology has become more sophisticated. The rule of thumb is that panels will lose 1 percent of their effectiveness every year but that figure has now dropped substantially. Now, solar panels are made with monocrystalline silicon which can maintain 92% efficiency after 20 years. Solar panel maintenance is very important.

Solar panels can last for approximately 30 years. But between installation and the period, solar panels need maintenance. You must ensure that your cells, inverters, cables, brackets, and controls are in good working order. Even if a single solar panel malfunction doesn’t affect the entire system, you should clean, repair, and tighten any damaged, dirty or loose parts.

1. Check Solar Panels Regularly

Most solar panels are placed in high locations so they are not susceptible to damage and ground surface debris. But it is very important to check the solar panels regularly to make sure they are not losing power due to dust and other debris. Dirt that enters your home will also eventually enter your solar panels so it is very important to check for cleanliness. In rare cases, solar panels are damaged by storms/rains.

2. Cleaning and Caring for Solar Panels

In most cases, the rain will keep the panels clean. This is true when the solar panels are installed on a steeper slope because dust will usually clear after every rain. But if your panel is exposed to a very thick layer of dust, then you can easily clean it with plain water. Some homeowners simply aim the spray at the panels and flush them.

The main thing to watch out for is the danger of scratches on the glass because it can reduce the light hitting the solar cells. For this reason, when you are choosing a solar panel cleaning product, it is very important to avoid all types of abrasive cleaners. Detergent cleaners can also be problematic because they can leave streaks and stains that may be difficult to see. If you wipe the panels, you should use a soft cloth or gum cleaner.

3. Monitoring Sunlight and Shadow

For maximum effectiveness, solar panels must be in the sun for hours. When installed, the panels will be placed in a location that gets maximum sun exposure. But trees can grow for years and patterns of sun and shadow can change. Therefore, during the life of the panel, it is very important to ensure that it is still positioned in the best possible sunlight orientation.

4. Checking Energy Usage

You may not feel the need to check your energy usage because your net metering arrangements with the local utility company will show you how much energy you are selling back to the grid. However, you are not directly measuring your panel’s energy output. Installing an energy monitor is the most direct way to make sure all your systems are working properly.

Various manufacturers produce technology that allows you to monitor your energy usage. Inverters often have displays that include power output as well as some daily and cumulative data. More sophisticated inverters can even show kilowatt-hours to the carbon dioxide pump you save. This is a way to see how much you are reducing your carbon footprint.

Things That Affect Solar Panel Maintenance Cost

5. Tighten Loose Parts

You must ensure that all bolts, nuts, and connections are intact for maximum results. You should keep an eye on energy production monitoring devices that can help identify faults. If there is a change in production, then you should check for broken parts. Loose or disconnected cables can also reduce output. In addition, this may create an electric shock hazard or cause a fire. Make sure the cable does not come into contact with any metal parts.

6. Monitoring Solar Panel Accessories

The components of the solar panel system include inverters, energy storage batteries, panels, cables, regulators, and electricity meters. All of these must work together to be able to utilize energy optimally. Therefore, you must continue to ensure that these accessories function optimally. The cost of replacing components can increase the payback period of the solar panel system. The function of the solar inverter is to switch to fault mode if something goes wrong. This prevents excessive damage to other parts of the system.

7. Avoid Shading

Shading is one of those things that you should avoid when you do a proper site analysis during pre-installation solar power system. Once the panels are installed, you need to make sure the shadows don’t appear like there’s a new tree rising as this can reduce the amount of energy generated by the system. You don’t have to cut down the trees but you can prune them to make sure the panels aren’t covered.

Do solar panels require a lot of maintenance?

-Solar panels don’t need a lot of maintenance but only need a little maintenance to function properly.

How often are solar panels maintained?

-One way to make solar panels durable is to do maintenance at least once a year.