The global solar power market is projected to grow in 2029 at a CAGR of 6.9%.
Helping the environment is the most up-to-date thing these days. Solar energy is one of the most environmentally-conscious ways to power our homes.
But, many homeowners don’t realize how important it is to take care of a solar panel. Neglecting them can cause more damage than regular homeowner wear and tear.
For your panels to last for years to come, learn about all the little things you can do to care for them. There’s no longer reason you should neglect the systems on your roof now that you’re using them.
If you are considering installing it on your home, check out these eight solar panel care tips to decide if it’s right for you.
1. Make a Maintenance Checklist
Solar panel damage can occur due to a variety of environmental conditions. These can be excessive heat, hail, hail storms, lightning, falling branches, and wind storms.
As a solar panel care tip, it is essential to inspect your system or have a professional do it to identify any signs of damage. Some symptoms include cracked glass, spaced panel frames, unresponsive electronic components, corrosion, water pooling in corners, and discolorations. If you see any signs, see more information here to repair or replace the affected panels to prevent further damage.
2. Choose the Right Cleaners
When it comes to maintenance, it is essential to choose the correct cleaners so that your panels remain effective and efficient. Make sure to read labels before purchasing a product to ensure it is safe for use on solar panels and won’t damage them. Avoid using abrasive agents like steel wool, wire brushes, and sandpaper.
Soft, lint-free rags or sponges work best for solar panel cleaning. Furthermore, read the directions for diluting concentrated products and use those in the specified amount.
Avoid using cleaners that contain oil or plasticizers, as these can leave behind a residue. For stricter dirt and debris, you may need a pressure washer with a fan-shaped nozzle attachment to clean deeper into nooks and crannies.
3. Arrange for Shade Protection
Providing shade to your solar panels can significantly protect them from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Installing trees, shrubs, and pergolas are great ways to provide shade.
Trees and shrubs planted in the right places can provide natural shade to the panels during the most intense sunlight hours. Covering it in a roof overhang or building a pergola over them can also be beneficial.
The protection can help the solar panels from direct sunlight and reduce the amount of dust and dirt entering the cells. It can also reduce the heat entering the cells and the power loss needed for cooling. Of course, some trees can also block your panels, so if one is in the way of the sun, then a quick tree removal and relocation may be required.
4. Monitor Temperature and Voltage Levels
Temperature plays a vital role in the solar panel’s performance, and a decrease in temperature can lead to poor performance. If the voltage levels are low, it will have less power output.
Therefore, it is essential to take regular readings and check for any signs of change. Try to keep the temperature around 25°C optimal operating and the voltage in the 48 – 50 V range to get the most output and efficiency.
5. Tighten Bolts and Screws
It is essential to tighten any bolt or screw connections between the panel, inverter, and other components. It ensures the electrical connections are safe, secure, and stable enough to transmit and capture energy.
You can use a screwdriver to tighten each connection to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. All bolts and screws should be checked and drawn during the setup and installation.
6. Take Weather Conditions Into Account
Weather conditions naturally affect how well solar panels perform, so it is essential to consider them when caring for them. Heavy rain, high winds, and extreme temperatures all put a strain on. So, it is necessary to check the weather to ensure they are not at risk of environmental damage.
If necessary, check the wind and snow load ratings on your equipment and ensure protection is in place. Temperature extremes can also cause irreversible damage, so remember to check the manufacturer’s guiding and temperature ratings.
7. Check the Roof as Part of Solar Panel Upkeep
A good-quality roof means the solar panels have secure, solid foundations. The top should be inspected for problems, such as damaged roof tiles, cracked masonry, slipped slates, loose mortar, etc. Any of these issues could result in the weakened support of the solar panels, leading to destruction and leakage.
An annual professional roof inspection from the best solar installer is essential in maintaining the life of your solar panels. Additionally, regular maintenance of the surrounding area helps to ensure a stable mounting system.
8. Review Manufacturer Warranty Options
Ensure you have the most comprehensive warranty available to you. Each solar company offers different levels of coverage and potential limitation on the duration or the number of services. Most contracts include coverage for defects in materials and artistry.
Be familiar with the terms and conditions of your warranty, what it covers, and the conditions for filing a claim. Ensure to keep any documents or receipts associated with the covered product and note the end date of each warranty period.
Have the Best Solar Panel
Overall, these solar panel care tips are essential to extending your solar panel’s lifespan and maximizing energy output. Be sure to follow these instructions to keep your system running efficiently.
Remember to contact your solar installation professional if you have any questions, and have your system maintained annually. Look after your system, and it will look after you.
If you find this helpful, check other significant information on solar panels and other energy solutions on our website.