As a closed-circuit device, solar panels don’t always require maintenance, but they can benefit from proper cleaning and monitoring. Solar panel installation companies recommend clearing dust and leaves to ensure they can collect enough energy from the sun. Here are several ways to maintain your solar panels properly.
Regular Cleaning
Installation teams recommend cleaning your solar panels twice or four times a year. That’s great news because you won’t have to break out the garden hose to clean the panels of dust and leaves. You won’t need to worry about possible shock or shorting the system; it’s watertight and the slight tilt will send the water straight to your gutters.
Production Monitoring
Modern solar panel systems let you monitor their energy collection through an app. Install this app on your phone and check it weekly for any variations. Keep in mind that a sudden dip that recovers could be a minor system issue. However, a continuous or clear dip in production for months indicates your solar panel system may need expert maintenance.
After a Storm
High-quality solar panels typically withstand extreme weather if a certified team installed them. After a hurricane passes, a technician should inspect your system to address any damage and keep them from worsening. Once again, if you see a dip in system performance, an expert should assess your system’s condition.
Solar Reviews has an excellent guide on maintaining solar panels. Read more about it below.
How does extreme weather impact your solar panels?
Solar panels are designed to be durable. Top-quality solar panel installations allow PV systems to withstand all kinds of weather, from wind and rain to snow and more.
You’ll be glad to know that solar panels hold up well against hail, as found by the Department of Energy. They can even survive hurricanes, as evidenced by the limited damage to solar systems in North Carolina during Hurricane Florence in 2018.
Of course, they are not 100% indestructible; on rare occasions they can suffer damage by hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. But as long as you have a good warranty, you should be able to have any damaged panels repaired or replaced.
Somewhat ironically, the type of weather that most commonly affects panels is heat. When the temperature gets over 77°F (or 25°C), panels lose efficiency approximately 1% per degree.
However, by elevating them a few inches above the ground or roof, you allow for air circulation, which can help cool them down and maintain energy production. Solar panel performance in hot temperatures is not something to stress too much about, your solar installer will take local climate factors into consideration when installing panels.
How to repair or replace solar panels
If your panels need to be repaired or replaced, it’s best to hire a professional.
If they’re losing efficiency and still under a performance or power output warranty, then call the company that installed your panels. They will send someone to assess the situation and either fix the problem or replace the panels.
If your panels have sustained physical damage, that’s often covered under a separate equipment warranty. You can work with your solar installer to find out who can best replace those panels. Either way, don’t attempt to install solar panels or make repairs yourself unless you’re experienced with home solar systems.
What is the standard warranty for solar panels?
It is important to ensure that the solar panels you install come with a good warranty; if your solar panels’ efficiency does start to decrease, it can potentially cost you thousands of dollars over the years.
If your solar panel is covered under a warranty, the company who installed it will provide a replacement. A good solar company will give you a warranty of between 15 and 25 years, and guarantee that your panels’ energy production remains at 80% or above for that entire time.
So, are solar panels hard to maintain?
All in all, maintaining your solar panels is pretty easy. If you notice dust, debris or snow piled up, a quick clean will ensure that your panels operate effectively. Additionally, be sure the panels you get come with a good warranty so if your panels do break, they get replaced. (Continue reading here to learn more)
Roper Roofing & Solar is a dependable roofing company with a deep background on solar panel and solar shingle system installations. GAF, LG, and other solar technology manufacturers trust us to install their systems for homeowners in your area. Count on us to go above and beyond your needs, so call us today to get started.
