Solar energy is one of the most cost-effective means of powering your home. Yet, you must maintain your solar systems properly if you want to continue reaping the benefits of going green.
How do you go about doing solar system maintenance? Do you have to call a specialist every time your solar system acts up?
This article takes a look at common mistakes in solar system maintenance.
Please keep reading to learn how to stay on top of your systems and keep them running all year round.
- Not Cleaning Solar Panels Regularly
Common mistakes when maintaining solar systems include not cleaning the solar panels regularly. Dirt, dust, and pollen can accumulate on solar panels, preventing them from absorbing sunlight properly.
This reduces the energy your system can generate, making it inefficient and reducing its lifespan. Solar panel owners should clean the panel’s surfaces at least twice a year to prevent this. A garden hose with a pressure nozzle or a soft bristle brush is the best tool for removing dirt without damaging the panel’s surface.
- Not Checking for Shading
Shading may sometimes be caused by shadows cast by trees, nearby buildings, and other objects. This can reduce the efficiency of the solar system and its ability to capture sunlight.
To avoid this mistake, it is essential to regularly survey the area around a residential solar system to ensure no shade. Trimming nearby trees or shrubs and casting a shadow may also be necessary. You can also adjust the solar system or relocate it to maximize its exposure to sunlight.
- Not Monitoring System Performance
One of the most prevalent errors is failing to monitor system performance. If the system is not checked for output, issues such as shading, module degradation, disconnection, or panel misalignment may occur. It will also lead to underperformance.
One way to avoid this is to check the system’s output every week and adjust or diagnose any discrepancies. Additionally, checking mounting hardware is essential. It can loosen up due to environmental factors like strong winds and extreme temperatures.
It will help to extend the life span of your system. The maintenance tasks should be done annually, and keep a record of any changes or findings.
- Not Maintaining the Battery Bank
Common mistakes in solar system maintenance can cause serious reliability and safety issues. A key area of concern is maintaining a battery bank.
When incorrect maintenance of a battery bank occurs, it can cause the battery’s performance degradation. It will lead to a shorter life span and lower capacity.
To avoid this, you may charge the batteries regularly, especially after extended periods of inactivity. During charging, you can also do regular readings.
It ensures the charge’s evenness and the system are working correctly. You should also test the batteries for self-discharge and electrolyte levels.
Additionally, the terminals should be inspected for corrosion. It is to ensure the battery bank is running correctly. No dirt or debris has been allowed to accumulate on the terminals.
These tips can help protect against common mistakes in solar system maintenance, ensuring optimal performance from your battery bank.
- Not Inspecting Electrical Connections
Common mistakes in solar system maintenance can include not inspecting electrical connections. This can lead to a decrease in power output and can be dangerous.
To avoid this mistake, it is essential to check electrical connections, including the cables, valves, fuses, and other system parts. It is to ensure that everything is in proper working order.
Any parts that appear loose, corroded, or otherwise damaged should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Finally, checking for adequate Ground-Fault and Arc-Fault protection is vital. This helps in preventing any electrical issues from occurring.
By following these steps and inspecting the cables and other components of the solar system, any problems with the electrical connections can be caught and corrected quickly and efficiently.
- Not Conducting Regular Inspections
One of the most common mistakes made in solar system maintenance is not conducting regular inspections. Regular inspections of your solar system will help ensure its optimal performance.
Any potential issues that could lead to expensive repair of solar panel damage down the road are identified early on. Remember to conduct regular inspections.
Create a schedule, and put it on your calendar. Ensure all solar system components, including the controller, battery, inverter, and cables, are thoroughly checked. Doing so will help identify any signs of wear and tear and alert you if any components need replacing.
Check for debris or dirt blocking the sunlight on the panels. Address any issues you find before they become more serious.
- Not Hiring a Professional for Maintenance
One of the most common mistakes in solar maintenance routine is not hiring a professional. Solar systems need a certain level of expertise and specialized knowledge to be appropriately maintained.
A professional installer and maintenance provider can ensure your system works correctly and efficiently. It saves you time and money in the long run. An installer can detect minor problems before they become more extensive and expensive.
Further, they can help with maintenance and troubleshooting issues and offer helpful advice. Finally, they know current technologies and can recommend the latest products and services best suited to your needs.
Hiring a professional for your solar system maintenance may initially cost more but can prove worth the investment over time. To help support your solar panels, click here to read more now about effective solar maintenance.
Avoid Mistakes in Solar System Maintenance Today.
To avoid mistakes in solar system maintenance, it is vital to be proactive in maintaining your solar system. Make sure to check and clean your equipment.
Pay attention to safety and installation guidelines, and enlist the help of a professional if needed. You can ensure a long lifespan and optimal performance by taking the proper steps for solar system maintenance.
Contact your nearest solar experts today to learn more about maintaining your solar system.
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