Solar energy systems have widely become mainstream in power generation across the globe, In Australia alone, 1 out every 4 homes use this free-energy generation system. They are a popular choice for people who want to generate renewable energy. They are easy and quick to do residential solar panel installation brookfield wi, environment-friendly, and have low maintenance options. What is best is that they can greatly reduce your electricity bill. For solar panel maintenance, it is recommended to clean your solar panels 3 to 4 times every year. You should also have them inspected at least twice every year. This is to check for early warning signs of solar panel damages. It is also to ensure that your solar energy system is working at its greatest efficiency.
Below are 5 solar maintenance tips you should know.
Avoid shading
Solar panels are typically positioned on the part of the roof that gets enough sunlight. The presence of sunlight gives them enough power to transform into electricity for the household. If trees or other structures block and shade your solar panels, they do not produce the greatest output expected of them. As such, you must trim any tree branches that may block the sunlight on the solar panels in your roof. Make sure that no structure can come up towering to shade your solar panels.
Cleaning your solar panels
Typically, natural rainfall can keep your solar panels clean. They wash away debris and dirt that accumulate from time to time. But like how the windows in your household your solar panels can collect grime from forces of nature and pollution. As these grime build up, they affect the performance of your solar energy system. It is highly recommended to do a solar panel clean-up after every 3 or 4 months. The process is somewhat easy and labour-intensive. You can use a soft cloth soak in a solution of biodegradable soap and water to clean any dirt on top of your solar panel glasses. To remove excessive dusting, you can run water from a hose pipe over the panels.
Daily monitoring of your solar energy system
Luckily, most solar energy systems come in two handy ways to monitor them. An inverter display allows you to determine if they are working properly. The green light indicator signals that everything is doing well on your solar energy system. Once it flashes or turns off, a failure is most likely happening. Another handy way to monitor your solar energy system is through an app on your computer, desktop, or mobile devices. You will need to register for an account and link it to your unit. Afterward, you can monitor everything about your solar energy system. It is recommended to this daily to detect any small issues that can potentially become bigger problems.
Quarterly Checks
Every 3 or 4 months, you should find time to check and clean your solar energy system. A general performance check should include the following:
- Analyse and review the daily performance output of your solar energy system for any irregular data.
- Checking if the mounting hardware of your solar panels is in good condition. Double-check if the connections are properly in place.
- Check if the solar panels are clean and free from browning, corrosion, fractures, moisture, and scratches.
- Check if the solar panel cables are secure. If possible, use a voltmeter to test the efficiency of your PV panels.
- Check the breakers for any possible damage. Ensure that the isolation devices are in proper order.
- Check the fuse boxes and resistive joints are clean and in good working condition.
- Check the junction boxes for any water leakage. Ensure that the clamp and seals are intact.
- Check the solar inverter efficiency by unplugging the battery and measuring its voltage. 12.6 to 13 volts means that it is charging properly.
Semi-Annual or Annual Inspection
The best way to ensure that your solar energy system is maintained properly is to have an expert evaluate and inspect them every 6 months or every year. Experts commonly recommend inspecting before the spring and winter seasons. Calling a solar panel installer, maintenance, or repair professional gives you the right insights if your solar panels are working at their maximum efficiency.
