If you’re wondering how to keep your solar panel system running smoothly, you’ve come to the right place! Having your solar panels maintained isn’t something that should be taken lightly. It’s one of the most important steps to ensure that your system has worked for you for years. This article discusses a few of the basics you should keep in mind, including cleaning your solar panels, inspecting them for signs of damage, and monitoring the performance of your system throughout the day.
Monitoring The Day-To-Day Performance
It’s important to have a good way to monitor the day-to-day performance of solar panels. This will give you peace of mind when you’re investing in solar power and monitor how much do solar panels save every month. There are a few different methods to do so. One is to use a software application that may provide real-time metrics. Another is to use a third-party monitoring service. The latter can alert you when your performance drops below a specified limit. Some solar panel monitoring units integrate with data storage systems to provide more information. These systems can also track energy usage over time. Typically, the most common type of solar system monitoring is tracking the energy produced by each panel. Other options include tracking the overall output of the entire system. For larger solar installations, having access to local weather is critical. Knowing the temperature and irradiance will help you determine whether or not your PV system is producing the expected output.
Cleaning
Cleaning solar panels is relatively easy, but it is essential to do it frequently. The dirt and debris that can accumulate on your panels will reduce the performance of your system and will show up on your electric bill.
It is generally a good idea to clean your panels every few years. Depending on where you live, this may be more or less often. However, a solar panel monitoring system can be used to alert you when your panel needs cleaning. The best time to clean your solar panels is in the spring when the weather is usually a little cooler. But you should avoid the sweltering summer heat, which can ruin your panels’ ability to produce energy.
If you have a roof-mounted panel, you might want to hire a professional. Solar companies offer solar panel cleaning services as part of their annual maintenance. You can also use a simple garden hose to clean your panels. Using a telescopic hose wand can give you better control over the spray.
Inspecting For Signs Of Damage
When installing solar panels in your home, it’s crucial to inspect for signs of damage and make repairs if necessary. This will help you to keep your system running at maximum efficiency. Solar panel system maintenance can be scheduled on a yearly or monthly basis. It’s best to get an inspection as soon as you notice a problem, so you can avoid costly repairs. Typical items to inspect are the electrical system, the structure, and the solar panels. Depending on your local government, you may need to have additional inspections. These will check for the proper size and type of conduit runs and gauges, as well as the grounding of the solar panels. To ensure the safety of your electrical system, you will need to ensure the circuit breakers are not tripping too often. You will also need to ensure the wires are not touching the roof. In addition, you will need to make sure the racking is securely fastened to the solar panels. If there is any debris, you will need to remove it and clean it. Solar panels must be inspected at least twice a year to prevent water damage. However, if you live in an area with lots of rain, your panels might not collect as much debris and require less frequent cleanings.
Preventing Animals From Setting Up Camp Under Your Solar Panels
Animals that live under your solar panels can cause problems. These animals can eat or chew on the wiring on your panels. They can also create nests on your panels that obstruct the ventilation needed for proper panel operation. This could lead to loss of energy and damage to your panels. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these issues from arising. One option is to install critter guards. Critter guards are metal mesh meant to cover the gap between your solar panels and the rooftop. In addition, they are designed to block animals from getting underneath your panels. Whether you have squirrels or pigeons, installing critter guards will help keep them out of your panels. Squirrels will chew through the wires on your panels, reducing their efficiency and damaging them. Pigeons can also damage your panels by spreading their poop around. Poop can affect the quality of your solar panels, causing them to degrade faster.
