Solar Panel Maintenance Mistakes: 5 Things You Should Never Do to Your System
The more solar power gains popularity as a source of energy for homes and businesses, the better it is to know how to maintain your system in top operating condition to maximise efficiency and longevity. Just look at the numbers—energy loss can escalate to up to 50% per day, depending on soiling density, says Energy Reports.
Losing solar energy means higher electricity bills and increased costs for repairs in the long run, so knowing mistakes to avoid can help you properly maintain your system. In this blog, we’ll break down the five main errors you should steer clear of when it comes to solar panel maintenance.
- Neglecting Regular Cleaning
Probably the most common mistake solar panel owners make is not cleaning solar panels regularly enough. Dirt, debris, and dust can build up on the panels’ surfaces, blocking sunlight and making them less efficient. A Cleaner Energy Systems study found that even 1% shade from minimal dirt buildup can decrease energy production by 10-20%.
Ensure you have a regular cleaning schedule that aligns with your location and environment. Some areas with higher dust or pollen counts may need to be cleaned more frequently. A soft brush and gentle water pressure are key to achieving clean solar panels, and don’t use harsh cleaning agents or high-pressure water that can damage the panels.
- Leaving Your Panels in the Shade
Obstructions can decrease panel efficiency by a huge number, from trees to buildings or anything else that will cast a shadow. Having a sense of how patterns will change is also essential. For example, installing your solar panels during winter when the trees are bare versus installing them when the trees have leaves.
A pre-installation site analysis can reveal any future shading that is likely to happen. Shrubs and trees have to be cut on a regular basis so they will not shade panels. The sun path varies with different seasons, and so you might need to shift or change the panel angle throughout the year to minimise shading.
- Neglecting Professional Maintenance
Regular professional inspections are the best means of guaranteeing solar panels are working at their peak. Waiting until something does go amiss and calling in the expert to fix it allows minor issues to turn into bigger, expensive repairs.
Having a professional maintenance check-up annually can help keep your system running at optimal performance. Check-ups of this sort can detect issues like loose connections, electrical problems, or decreased speeds.
During inspection, the professional technician is able to evaluate your system for wear and tear, overall performance, and connection security. Not only can it avoid having problems crop up in the long run, but it will also save you money on future repair costs.
- Avoiding System Monitoring
Tracking your solar panel efficiency is what helps you identify when there is a drop in efficiency and address it before it is too late. You can monitor performance regularly without necessarily having a qualified individual around, and there are monitoring systems that will enable you to do so without any trouble.
Most modern solar panel systems come with display monitors that enable you to monitor energy output and overall performance in real time. Monitor the information on a regular basis to check whether there have been instances where performance has dipped, so you can take measures to fix the issue at the first instance.
- Overlooking Serious Weather Damage
Your solar panel system can be damaged by harsh weather conditions like storms or hail. After such weather conditions, you need to check your system for any faults. Solar panels are made to last through harsh conditions, but if you fail to repair any damage initially, it will cost you in the future.
If you live in an area with frequent storms or adverse weather conditions, you should regularly perform post-weather inspections. If you spot any physical damage, call a technician for an inspection.
How Can You Avoid These Mistakes?
Being proactive about your maintenance strategy can help avoid these common solar panel problems:
- Know Your System: Stay informed about your specific system and maintenance needs. Understanding how your system works and its requirements will help you maintain it optimally.
- Maintenance Schedule: Create a schedule involving routine cleanings, inspections, and performance reports. Adhere to the schedule to keep your panels in top working order.
- Work With Specialists: While you can do some things on your own, like inspections and cleaning dirt build-up, you should trust the experts when it comes to inspections and repairs. Use qualified and well-trained technicians to ensure any issues are dealt with appropriately.
- Stay Up To Date: Ensure you’re staying in the loop on the latest advancements in solar technology and maintenance to optimise your system. Using the latest methods and products can help improve the longevity and efficiency of your solar panels.
How Can You Improve Solar Panel Efficiency?
Maintenance is vital for keeping your solar panel system efficient. Avoiding common mistakes like the ones above and implementing best practices can ensure your systems operate at the highest level. Alongside avoiding these mistakes, here are some tips to improve your solar panel efficiency:
- Angle and Orientation: Make sure your panels are installed at the best angle and orientation for your location. This helps maximise sunlight exposure and energy production.
- Regular Cleaning: You should be cleaning your system every 6 months, but if you live in an area that experiences high dust or pollen, you may need more frequent cleanings.
- Warranties and Support Services: Your solar panel installation often has warranties covering repairs or replacements for faulty panels and inverters. Keeping your warranty intact means following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and procedures.
- Use the Right Materials: Soft brushes and microfibre cloths can help clear dust and debris during routine maintenance. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or high-pressure washers, which can scratch panels and reduce efficiency.
Maintaining Your Solar Panel System
Solar panel maintenance is essential to having your system working efficiently, which is not only beneficial for its lifespan but also cost-saving. Preventing avoidable errors regarding the maintenance of your solar panels will have the effect of prolonging the life of your system and maintaining its best performance.
Residential Solar Panels explains that a poorly maintained system loses 4-8% efficiency every year, while a well-maintained system will lose just 0.5% efficiency per annum.
Contact our solar panel maintenance experts today if you need to keep your system in top condition. Volteam Electric provide professional solar panel maintenance that meets industry standards. From emergency repairs to regular check-ups, our experts are on hand to help protect your investment and keep your panels running as efficiently as possible.
