5 Things You Need to Know About Solar Panel Maintenance

If you are thinking of purchasing solar panels, you need to know a few things before you do. Some of these include how to install them, how to clean them and what to watch out for when it comes to the maintenance of your solar system.

Installing Solar Panels

You need to know some things about installing and maintaining solar panels. You can find plenty of information on the Internet, but asking your installer for specific maintenance requirements is a good idea. One of the most important things to know about solar panel maintenance is that you should check your system at least four times a year. This helps you to identify problems before they develop. Another thing you need to know is that your system needs to be in the sun for at least six hours a day. However, the amount of time you need to spend in the sun varies by region and size of your panels.

Cleaning Solar Panels

If your solar panels are not working as well as they used to, you may need to clean them. Dirty panels can reduce energy production and increase your utility bill. This is because of a buildup of grime and dust.

The best way to clean your solar panel is to use water. But the best water is distilled water. Distilled water has more cleaning power than hose water. A soft brush is good for removing surface dirt and debris. You will also need a squeegee to wipe off the dirty water. Use mild soap that won’t damage the solar panels. Be sure to rinse off the soap with a hose. Soapy water can evaporate quickly, leaving a residue that can be hard to remove.

Inverter Failure

The inverter failure is one of the most common issues associated with solar panels. It can be caused by various problems, including damage to the inverter, the panels themselves, and the grid. But there are several ways to diagnose and fix the problem. You can contact your inverter manufacturer to have the problem fixed, or you can work with a solar company to find a solution. Some solar panels have a built-in app that provides regular updates about the status of your system. If you need help figuring out what the problem is, the app can help you get it sorted out. The app can also send you an alert if your system is malfunctioning. An inverter can show an error message or light. If yours does, check the screen for an error code. This can be many different things, from a problem with the battery to the inverter’s clock circuit.

Red Flags That Your Solar System Needs Maintenance

There are some red flags that your solar system needs maintenance. The most obvious is decreased energy output. However, that does not mean your panel has reached its prime. Similarly, a higher electric bill is a red flag as well. A few other indicators that your solar system needs maintenance include, but are not limited to, a faulty inverter. It may be time to invest in a new one. And don’t forget to check your wires. Loose wires can cause unplanned shutdowns. Luckily, most companies are quick to respond and can usually arrange for an electrician to come to you. In addition to these handymen, you should take advantage of the many solar panel rebates offered to encourage the purchase of home systems. Regardless of your system type, regular maintenance is necessary to keep the system functioning in top form.

Cost Of A Solar Panel Repair

Solar panel repair costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. This depends on the extent of the damage, the time it takes to fix the issue, and whether or not it requires re-installation. Most solar panels are designed to last for decades. However, the elements can cause them to crack. The simplest way to repair the damage is to apply epoxy. Small chips can be repaired, but larger pieces may need to be replaced. Rust and corrosion can also be an issue. If you suspect your panel has this problem, you may consider hiring a professional. Panels can also be damaged by falling tree branches. The glass will likely become chipped when a tree limb falls on your panel. It is possible to repair the glass, but the panel needs to be replaced if the limb is large.