Solar panels have become a big part of Western homes. Many who have adopted the technology have begun to save so much on their energy bills. On average, a solar panel with proper care and maintenance can last between 20-30 years. A poorly-maintained one will most likely last shorter.
Make sure your solar panel lasts for the foreseeable future by properly maintaining it. Here are three ways to do this.
Cleaning
Solar panels must remain above your roof to get the most amount of solar energy. Unfortunately, this also means you will expose them to other dangerous elements. A dusty and debris-filled solar panel can't perform at its best and decrease its energy production. In some cases, it can even lead to costly damage.
Routine cleaning removes dirt from your panels. We recommend leaving it to professional roofers with solar panel installation experience for a thorough cleaning service that won't damage the entire system.
System Performance Evaluation
Your solar panels can have many energy production evaluation tools. These might seem complex, but they help you learn about your system's performance. You can read the manuals and analyze the data entering the monitoring software. If you notice an electricity generation shortage, it might indicate a grave issue.
Expert Inspections
Schedule a yearly expert inspection of your system. These professionals have a long-term experience in the industry that ensures your roof is in good hands. They will recalibrate, adjust, and repair any component of the solar panel system.
Learn more about solar panel maintenance by learning about each of its components, according to Solar RNG.
Powering your house with solar panels is ideal for several reasons. Making the switch to renewable energy doesn’t just reduce your environmental impact; its cost-efficient perks will also allow you to save money. With the latest models being inexpensive and lasting a lifetime, now’s the perfect time to invest in a solar panel system.
When you’ve finally decided to go solar, you should be aware that your system will require periodic maintenance. While modern solar panels are built to withstand exposure to the elements, this doesn’t eliminate the fact that they need to be taken care of. Since its components can also break down, ensuring that all parts are working fine will allow you to maximize your investment.
But how exactly do you maintain solar panels? Before we dive into the details, it’s important to know their parts.
What are solar panels made of?
With more people realizing its benefits, solar panel technology has advanced tremendously over the past few years. In the past, it was branded as expensive and less efficient, but today’s solar panel systems are far more cost-effective. Despite all the advancements, it’s interesting to know that the design has relatively stayed the same. Here are the six main components that make up a solar panel:
1. Solar PV Cells
Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells are responsible for converting sunlight into electrical energy. They’re small, 0.1mm-thick wafers that can be made with either monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon.
The kind of cell and silicon used will give you a general idea of a panel’s performance, but differences in size and configuration can also influence its energy production. As a rule of thumb, always remember:
Monocrystalline – Higher cost and greater efficiency
Polycrystalline – Lower cost and less efficiency
2. EVA Film
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) film is a transparent plastic layer resistant to high temperatures and humidity. This polymer covers the PV cells to keep them safe from water leaks and dirt buildup. This component also protects the other inner parts from being damaged by shocks and vibrations.
3. Back sheet
The back sheet is engineered to regulate your panel’s temperature. In addition, this cover is made up of polymer or a combination of polymers that will help protect your panels from environmental damage, UV radiation, and moisture. (Continue reading here to learn more)
Allow us at Roper Roofing & Solar to help you find the best options for your residential and commercial needs. With decades of experience in the industry, we're confident in achieving the best results for your home. Contact us today.
