Importance of Solar Panel Maintenance

Posted by Verdek LLC on November 25th, 2017

One of the marvels of solar-based power is that once established, solar panels require little upkeep all over their lifetime. The initial start-up cost of installation can be deterrent for many homeowners, but in reality, the monthly energy savings pay the installation costs relatively quickly. With limited maintenance costs, solar panels are really long-term investments. Upkeep or maintenance is the way to supporting a solid, legitimately working, proficient, and viable structure.

With the purchase of solar-powered panels, buyers are in good fortune. Luckily, solar-powered panels require really low support. Dissimilar to generators which are made out of moving segments which require repair or substitution, solar oriented panels don't have moving parts that can rust or breakdown.

In general, photovoltaic (PV) systems come with a 20-year warranty and a guarantee that the solar panels will continue to produce at least 80% of their rated power after the initial 20-year period. Solar panel durability has been improved with PV technology and manufacturing, however, so a solar panel produced after the year 2000 will only degrade by 0.4% a year. At this rate, it will retain 92% of its original efficiency after 20 years. However, with these insignificant deteriorations, there are some fundamental upkeep undertakings that should be observed to decrease the wear and tear on the panels and keep up high proficiency all through the lifetime of the device.

Homeowners with solar panel installations should be primarily concerned with keeping the panels free of dirt and debris. This will be a larger problem in flat-lying systems, as opposed to an angle. Anything that covers the panels will reduce the electrical output of the system, so it is important to be able to reduce the efficiency of the system. Numerous solar power organizations additionally offer cleaning jobs and supplies accessible for purchase on the web.

Similar to keeping the panels clear, it is important to ensure clear access to sunlight. Solar access could be impeded by overgrown vegetation or new structures, so keep an eye on what's happening south of the facility. It may be necessary to trim your eyes to your neighbor so they do not block your sunlight.

Solar panels are more likely in harsh climates, especially those that experience heavy snowfall, strong winds, or frequent hail. If space and the angle of the panels permit, homeowners can consider a buffer to protect the panels from the worst of the climate. Reducing the impact of solar panels will extend their lifetime and improve efficiency.

There are other, rarer, things to look out for as well. Ideally, your solar panels will not be able to fall asleep, but they could be instances when they are damaged by hail, or falling sticks, or a rogue cat. Keep an eye out for broken glass on the top of the panels; if there is broken glass the solar panel could be compromised and will need to be replaced.