Did you know houses with solar power systems in certain states have an increased value? More people want an energy-efficient home. But you’ll need to maintain your solar system to keep them performing efficiently. If you need tips on solar system maintenance, keep reading. In this guide, you’ll learn some essential solar system maintenance tools. Keep up with maintenance so you can protect your investment.
Ready to learn more? Check out the rest of the article below.
What’s the Difference Between Maintaining Rooftop Panels Vs. Ground-Mounted Panels?
The difference between the two systems is the accessibility factor. Ground panels will be a lot easier to reach, making them straightforward to clean.
If there’s a buildup of debris or snow, you can clean them off with a soft-bristled broom.
What About Extreme Weather?
Solar panels are durable and can withstand different kinds of weather. Solar panels can even hold up well against hail.
Solar panels aren’t 100 percent indestructible. They might end up damaged by tornadoes, lightning, hail, or hurricanes. If you have a decent warranty, you can get the damaged panels replaced or repaired.
The kind of weather that can affect solar panels is heated. If the temperature goes over 77 degrees, the panels lose efficiency.
If you elevate the panels a few inches above the roof or ground, you improve the air circulation. The air will cool them down and maintain optimal energy production.
Solar panel performance in hotter regions isn’t a huge concern. Your solar installer will consider the climate factors when they complete the installation.
Spend Time Inspecting Your Solar Panels
Most solar panels will get positioned in an area that’s not ground-level. This way, your solar panels don’t become vulnerable to debris from the ground.
Inspect your solar panels each month. Ensure you don’t lose power because there’s tree debris or pollen buildup. The dirt accumulated in your windows could cling to your solar panels.
Solar panels could get damaged from hail storms. If your solar panels become damaged, call in a repair technician.
Clean Your Solar Panels
Are your solar panels quite steep? Rain will wash away most grime off solar panels. Pollen and dust will wash away after rainfall. Yet, if you find your solar panels have a coating of pollen or dust, wash them with water.
Don’t use an abrasive cleaner or scrubber. You want to avoid scratching the glass because this could impact how the light reaches the solar cells. Homeowners will use a hose to spray off their panels.
If you want to wipe down the panels, use a squeegee or soft cloth. Rubbing alcohol dissolved in some water will remove oily residue. Detergent cleansers could leave smudges or streaks.
Track the Sun and Shade
Once installed, your solar panels will stay in a maximum sun-exposed area. Over the years, trees might grow large and shade the panels. Even the patterns of the sun will change.
New construction in nearby lots will affect how much sun your solar system receives. Make sure the solar panels are still in the best spot possible.
Inspect the Energy Usage
Do you ever check your energy usage? Your metering arrangement with the utility company reveals how much energy you sell. Relying on their numbers means you don’t get a direct measurement of the energy output.
Different manufacturers will create technology to let you track energy usage. You could install an energy monitor. This way, you can ensure your solar system performs perfectly.
Sophisticated inverters will translate your kilowatt-hours into pounds of CO2 you save. An inverter will have a primary display that will include your power output. It also includes daily and cumulative data.
There are also unique apps to track your system. Check how your solar panels perform at any point by picking up your phone. The devices will send information to your computer.
What About a Cleaning Kit?
A solar panel cleaning kit will usually include a wiper, a brush, and a biodegradable soap.
Start mixing the soap in the water bucket. Dip your brush in the bucket, then wipe down the solar panels. Use water to get rid of dirt or grime.
Don’t Forget Routine Inspections
Your technician can fix the connectivity or wiring issues. You should remember to schedule an inspection before the winter months. You will have time to repair any malfunctions or identify any potential issues.
Remain Frugal With Your Energy
Whatever you gather in the summer should cover your electrical needs in the winter. Solar production will lower during the winter season. A reliable system can account for total annual usage.
Replace or Repair the Panels
Do your solar panels need to be replaced or repaired?
You should consider hiring a professional. You don’t want your solar panels to lose their efficiency. Call the business that installed your solar panels. The technician will arrive and fix the issue or replace your panels.
If your panels get damaged, you may get covered by an equipment warranty. Work with a solar installer and find out who will replace those panels.
Don’t try to finish these repairs alone unless you have a lot of experience with solar systems.
If you’re into adding new panels, shop around and find the best place for buying solar panels.
Don’t Forget These Solar System Maintenance Tips
Did you find this guide on solar system maintenance helpful? You should get rid of debris on solar panels and spend time cleaning them. Consider scheduling regular inspections before winter hits.
Trim any trees growing around your panels to get rid of unwanted shade.
Need more helpful tips like this article? Check out our resources on the blog.
