Enjoying the benefits of your solar energy? Or are you planning to invest in solar panels? We couldn’t appreciate you more! Solar PV panels can be one of the best investments you can make. Not only do they reduce your utility bills, but they also contribute to a greener environment. But if you are leaving your solar panel as it is, then you are making a great mistake.
It is necessary to maintain your solar panel system regularly to make sure it lasts long while giving you the best performance. Whether you are already an owner or planning to invest, we advise you to consult a solar panel manufacturer. Meanwhile, this blog will help you handle your solar panel system like a pro.
Regular Cleaning of Solar Panels
Solar panels are often subjected to hostile environments such as dust, bird droppings, leaves, and other pollutants. These contaminants can hinder the sunlight from reaching the panels and thus decrease their efficiency. Cleaning your solar panels is essential so that they can perform at their intended efficiency.
How Often To Clean
How often the panels should be cleaned varies depending on the environment where you live. In areas where dust or bird activity is high, cleaning may be required every few months. On the other hand, places where there is a lot of rainfall will not need cleaning very often since the rains wash away part of the debris.
Best Cleaning Methods for Solar Panels
Use Soft Brushes: The initial step is to dust off the surface using a soft-bristled Brush. It is also important not to use materials that have abrasive surfaces that could rub on the panel surface.
Apply Water: When using a hose, ensure that the water pressure is not strong, as this can damage the panels. For a stronger cleaning, you can use water in a bucket mixed with soapy water. Make sure the soap is not abrasive, especially for solar panels. If you want the surface of the solar panels, use a general washing soap.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using strong chemicals and cleaning agents because they tend to erode the surface of the panel, thus lowering its effectiveness.
Clean During Cooler Hours: Wash your panels during the early morning or late evening when the solar panels are at minimal temperatures. Cleaning panels in direct sunlight may be disastrous as the cleaning solution may be forced to dry, creating a streaky surface or residue.
Inspect Damage on Your Solar Panels
Regular checks are very important so that most problems can be discovered and rectified before they grow bigger. Conduct routine checks for physical damage and connection security to guarantee that your solar panel system is fine.
Common Issues To Look For
Cracks or Chips: One of the many things that the homeowner needs to do is check the surface of the panels for cracks or chips. Cracks or breakages of the glass or the panel may hinder performance and lead to the worst problems.
Loose Connections: Keep an eye on the wiring and joints as they may show some signs of looseness or even corrosion. Weak links may lead to low energy output or a complete failure of the power system.
Degraded Seals: Check the seals around the panel and any other mounting hardware you employ. Seals that adequately encapsulate the panel must be used to prevent water and debris from getting into it.
Discoloration Or Spots: In case of overheating or internal problems, the outer surface of the panels may show discolouration or spots.
Monitor Performance
The performance of your solar panels can also be monitored to know how efficient the energy generation of your panels is. This will help identify emerging problems with performance before they become critical and verify that your system is running as smoothly as possible.
Tools And Apps For Monitoring
Inverter Displays: Most solar panel systems include an inverter with a display that enables you to observe the energy being produced. You should check these displays often for irregularities.
Monitoring Apps: Some current PV systems consist of a monitoring application that allows you to monitor the output from your smartphone or tablet. These apps can help you monitor your energy system and even notify you about problems.
Energy Production Records: Make it a routine to document your solar panel’s performance by observing the energy generated over a specific period of time. There could be issues leading to inefficiency and a reduction in performance levels. Hence, it is good to compare current performance levels with past performances.
Trim Surrounding Vegetation
You should remove plants or even trees that obstruct the sunlight from directly reaching the solar panels or cast shadows over the panels, hence leading to less energy production. Leaves and other plant parts can also fall on the panels covering its surface.
Tips For Managing Vegetation
Regular Pruning: Make sure that any trees or plants around your solar panel are pruned to give room for sunlight. The vegetation must be cleared so that it does not grow back again and block the rooftop solution once more.
Install Barriers: It is wise to use enclosures like barriers or nets to keep birds and even big animals from getting close to the panels.
Maintain A Clean Area: Do not allow dust or leaves to build up around the areas where your solar panels are located. This is not only productive for the panels’ function but also prevents unwanted attention from pests or mice.
Professional Maintenance
As good as self-services are, professional inspections offer an extra layer of protection and give you confidence in handling your solar panel system. The professionals have the equipment and experience to notice details that you may not see.
What To Expect From A Professional Service
Comprehensive Inspection: Fault checking, inspection, and tests might be done on all the panels, wiring cables, and mount systems. They will ensure that there are no pending problems and that all the systems are fully functional.
System Testing: Technicians will conduct tests to make sure that the system is producing its energy correctly. They can see whether there are any disparities and then fix them.
Cleaning And Repairs: Cleaning is usually among the services offered by most professionals in their service packages. They can also tackle every other small problem or change that may be required.
Consultation And Advice: It is also important to consult with professionals about the optimal ways of cleaning solar panels to enhance their efficiency.
Get in touch with us for after-installation services!
Conclusion
Proper maintenance of your solar panels is essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance. You can keep your solar panel system in top condition by implementing regular cleaning, inspecting for damage, monitoring performance, managing surrounding vegetation, and scheduling professional maintenance.
Adopting these best practices will not only help you maximize your energy savings but also extend the life of your investment. Remember, a well-maintained solar panel system is a more efficient and reliable source of clean energy.
About Us!
Inter Solar Systems is a solar manufacturing company that deals with solar products like Heat Pump systems, Solar PV Panels, and Solar water heating systems. We started off with the ultimate goal of giving back to the community in sustainability and efficiency and there has been no turning back ever since. Our products are manufactured incorporating the latest technology and ideas to give you the maximum benefits in terms of cost and energy while leaving a positive impact on the planet. It is a win-win for everyone!