Did you know that over 2 million households in the US have switched to solar power?
Everyone is looking for a more environmentally-friendly source of energy, and a solar panel system is a way to go.
The only problem is that once you install the system on your roof, there is some solar panel maintenance that you do need to do from time to time to ensure that you get the best out of your system for many years to come.
If you want to learn about some of the most common maintenance tasks in more detail, keep on reading for our full guide.
Inspect Your Solar Panel
Inspecting your solar panels is essential in ensuring your system is running at its optimum performance. Systematic, preventive maintenance of your panels will help you get the most out of your system and extend its life span. Regularly scheduled inspections and cleaning should be done at least once a year.
When inspecting the solar panels, visually inspect all the panels for damage, dirt, or pests. Also, check the wiring and look for any signs of wear and tear, moisture exposures, or corroded terminals.
Lastly, check the environmental conditions surrounding your solar panel. This is to ensure it is not in the direct sun for an extended period or shaded by trees or other structures.
Maintaining a clean and efficient solar panel system is an absolute must to maximize the amount of energy generated. Properly caring for solar panels will ensure they stay in operating condition and reach their full potential.
Hose Down Your Solar Panel
Hosing down your solar panels regularly is essential for proper maintenance and to keep your system running efficiently. A once-a-month hose down will go a long way in eliminating dirt and dust build-up. This can reduce the amount of energy your solar panel produces.
Start by setting your hose to low pressure, and use a gentle, circular motion as you spray. You can also use a mild detergent to assist with build-up.
Do not use a pressure washer. This can easily damage your panels and lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Take the time to hose down your system, and you will have a more reliable source of electricity that can last for years to come.
Have the Proper Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools and equipment to properly maintain solar panels is essential in cleaning them. This help to ensure their long-term performance. Having the right tools and equipment can save time and money by reducing costly repairs or breakdowns.
A basic toolkit for solar panel maintenance should include wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, an adjustable wrench, and an extraction tool. This also consists of a soldering iron and solder, a voltage meter, and a cleaning brush. Other essential tools may be pruning shears, wrench sets, and a long-handled scraper for cleaning solar panel surfaces.
It’s also essential to have the appropriate safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. This is to help protect oneself from potential hazards. Having the right tools and equipment for cleaning a home’s solar panels can help improve its performance.
Consult Your Solar Panel Installer
Consulting your installer is essential in increasing your solar panel lifespan. Your installer knows the size of your system, the type of solar panel technology and installation, and what the solar panel system needs. This is to help it function safely and adequately.
There may be additional maintenance or a warranty that your installer can provide. This is crucial to ensure that the system works properly and that any defects or issues are properly addressed. Consulting your installer ensures that your system receives the necessary maintenance to continue functioning properly.
This includes regularly inspecting the system for damage and checking the wiring and connections for any loose connections. This also includes monitoring the performance of the panels via an online monitoring system.
With all of this in place, you can rest assured that your solar panel system will remain in tip-top shape for years to come.
Keep Solar Panel Out in the Sun
Ensuring the safety of your solar panels and increasing their lifespan requires proper maintenance and care. Keeping solar panels out in the sun is key to their performance. Sunlight exposure allows the panels to generate electricity efficiently.
Make sure the panels aren’t shaded by trees or buildings, and clean the surface regularly. Check the angle of tilt at least twice a year, as an increase in angle during the winter can help better absorb sunlight. Occasionally inspect the electrical wiring, screws, and fasteners to ensure everything is secure.
Lastly, you can contact the accredited solar panel installers linked here, if any cracks or damages are present on the solar panel’s surface. Remember to follow a complete solar panel maintenance guide to keep your solar panels out in the sun without any issues.
Check for Any Roof Damage
Checking for any roof damage is especially important when it comes to complete solar panel maintenance. Solar panel installations require mounting to the roof. This can potentially cause damage or weaken the roof’s structure if it isn’t installed appropriately.
It’s critical to inspect the roof around the mounting system and ensure it is secure, level, and properly drained. Look for any missing, loose, or broken shingles, as well as water damage. These could all impact the integrity of the roof.
Additionally, check for holes, punctures, and corrosion due to the constant exposure to the elements. Taking the extra time to look for any possible damage can help ensure that the solar panels are safe and operating properly for years to come.
Schedule Your Solar Panel Maintenance Today
A complete solar panel maintenance guide is essential to owning and operating a solar system. Following the guidelines is vital to ensuring that the solar system runs optimally, year after year. Make sure to do a lot of research when choosing between solar panel options.
So why not take action today to ensure optimal performance? Read this guide to properly maintain your solar system and reap the benefits.
Was this article helpful? If so, make sure to check out the rest of our site for more informative content.
Be First to Comment