Safety First: Important Measures
These are safety measures to observe before commencing any maintenance work. Inspecting or Cleaning your solar panels involves working on your roof; therefore, safety comes first.
- Wear Protective Gloves: Avoid getting your hands close to sharp edges or touching dirt or chemicals used in cleaning.
- Dress Appropriately: The dress code should also discourage shorts and skin, particularly the legs, to avoid scratches and sunburns.
- Sun Protection: Protect skin and eyes by using sunblock sunblock, sunglasses, and wearing a hat while operating in the sun.
- Hi-Vis Clothing: If you are close to the road, carrying clothes that make it difficult for you to see, mainly at night, is beneficial.
- Use a Strong Ladder: Always use a good and adequately placed ladder.
- Have a Buddy: It is safer to have someone with you, especially if you are working on the roof of the building. They can ensure the ladder stays still or come to assist in an accident or mishap.
Maintenance You Can Do Yourself
As mentioned, some tasks require professional assistance, but several questions can still be considered independently.
- Clear Away Debris: Leaves, twigs, and dust can accumulate on the floor, preventing sunlight from accomplishing your panels. Brush them off lightly with a soft broom, or wash them with a hose or water. Do not use chemicals or pressure washers in the cleaning manner.
- Check for Dust Build-Up: Dust could affect the functionality of solar systems. It comes off easily by washing lightly with a hose or damp cloth. This is done in the morning or evening to avoid water drying fast and making streaks on the wall.
Annual Professional Maintenance
You don’t have to check your panels daily, but you should arrange a professional panel inspection every year or every couple of years. This will help ensure that the system runs safely and performs optimally.
- Inspection of Static Lines and Roof Anchor Points: A professional will also check whether roof anchors and safety lines are well placed for safety precautions and if they are in good shape.
- Rain Systems: Ensure water is not building up around your panels. This can cause water seepage and probably damage your house's roof. A professional can also inspect whether the drainage systems surrounding the panels are in good condition.
- Guardrails and Access Points: Proper guardrails and safe roofs when installing rooftop equipment can make future maintenance easier. Ensure that these are in good condition during a professional inspection.
What If the System Is Not Performing Up to Expectations
At some point, the system you set up may require increased performance despite your efforts to accomplish that. If you think there is a problem, here are actions to take.
- Check the Monitoring App: Many current systems incorporate applications that monitor solar power production. You may realise that energy output has reduced, indicating a fault.
- Contact Your Solar Retailer or Installer: If your system is still protected by warranty, the solar installer should confer with the issue for free. Use this number first if you have any problems.
- When Can't Reach Your Installer: If your installer cannot provide an update or solution for your situation, attempt to speak to the manufacturer. It can help in the following methods.
- Dispute Resolution Required: If your solar retailer or installer cannot assist and you experience some problems, consider the dispute resolution services. There are official bodies that aid in solving such issues.
Common Problems to Watch Out For
Several factors may lead to your solar system to develop some form of malfunction. The following are some of the most common issues that you may experience.
- Inverter Faults: Your inverter is essential in converting solar power into helpful electricity. It can even shut down your entire system if it does not work.
- Battery Issues: If the system has a battery storage system as its part, then any problem will harm the system. Monitor frequently for error messages in the interface of your battery system.
- Incorrect Installation: Sometimes, installation faults may be noticed for months or years. If you have the purpose of agreeing that the installation has been completed improperly, it's advisable to seek a professional's help.
- Wiring Problems: Defective wiring or poorly related twine may additionally lead to extreme problems. Do not try to repair wiring faults by yourself; always seek the services of a qualified electrician.
- Broken Panels: Solar panels are robust but sometimes break down. Accidents such as hail storms, falling tree branches or even just an accidental knock can lead to the formation of cracks or other damages.
Indications That Your System Requires Attention
As highlighted above, it is essential to appreciate the early signs of dysfunctional solar panels. It helps in the early detection of a problem and can save a lot of money that would have been spent on severe issues.
- Sudden Energy Drop: A sharp decline in energy output might indicate something is wrong. Open your monitoring app to evaluate the energy produced compared to earlier readings.
- Inconsistent Energy Output: Any variation in energy production may lead to thinking there is an issue with the equipment or the panels are not clean. It will be advisable to do so regularly.
- Unusual Debris Build-Up: After a storm or hurricane, search for any material that may have settled on the top of your panels. Sometimes, due to storms or strong winds, they accumulate branches or any other material on the panels.
- Inverter Issues: Watch for changes in readings, warning signs or error codes, which should alert you that something is wrong with the inverter.
- Energy Problems in the Home: If appliances are not operating as effectively as previously, your solar system may be at fault.
Extreme Weather and Accidental Damage
The solar panels are designed to work well in extreme conditions. They can grow well in scorching climates, rainy weather, and even hail storms. However, no system is foolproof and can be damaged accidentally.
- Weather Damage: Although solar panels are designed to endure harsh conditions like heat, snow, or rain, storms can cause cracks or other damage. It is advisable to check them always after a severe weather condition.
- Vandalism: Solar systems might sometimes be victims of vandalism. If damaged or tampered panels or equipment are present, a technician must fix them.
Caring for your solar system is straightforward and requires little effort. The following checklist will help you guarantee that your system is working smoothly and for a longer period. Both you and the professional should check on your panels to ensure they produce clean energy for the coming years.
