With an estimated 1.7 million residential solar systems installed in the U.S., more and more homeowners are recognizing the financial and environmental benefits of installing solar panels on their homes. The regular maintenance of solar panels is key, however, for maximizing performance.
Homeowners with solar systems are responsible for the regular upkeep of those systems. Regular maintenance and checks of solar activities can help guarantee peak performance and solar savings.
The level of maintenance for your solar system depends on the type of solar panels you have installed. Below are some common maintenance recommendations for homeowners with solar panels.
Regular Cleanings
It is essential to have your solar panel system regularly cleaned. Dust, tree leaves, and bird droppings can all accumulate on the solar panel surface to reduce efficiency. The frequency of solar panel cleanings vary depending on location and weather conditions.
For optimal efficiency, it is suggested that solar panels be cleaned two to four times a year. Homeowners living in areas with higher levels of sediment, smoke, and humidity may need to increase the cleaning frequency.
Check For Degradation
Solar modules are essentially like coffee mugs: they don’t get better with time. Solar panel output degrades over time due to environmental factors, like sun exposure and wind. Generally, most solar panels lose v.25-0.5% of their power output each year.
Regular inspection of the solar system can help identify any degradation or malfunctioning. Having certified solar technicians assess your panels and system can help detect any issues with your system and help maintain the system’s performance.
Furthermore, if your warranty is still active at the time of inspection, it will help you better utilize that warranty.
Check Connections
The electrical components of the solar system can degrade over time. It’s important that the inverter, the combiner box, and the conductor rails all remain corrosion-free and securely connected.
Checking the electrical connections for any corrosion, loose parts, or signals can help identify any issues early on. Additionally, it’s important to inspect the distribution box and the DC cables leading to the solar modules.
Other Maintenance Tips
- Inspecting your solar panels for cracks or corrosion
- Checking the mounting hardware for any loose parts
- Do not apply any coatings or waxes to solar panels
- Consult an expert to inspect or repair any damage
A Smoother Solar System
Whether it be regular monitoring and inspections or professional maintenance and repair, yearly check-ups of your solar system are necessary for peak efficiency. With proper maintenance and care, homeowners can better utilize their solar systems and see a higher return on investment.