6 Essential Residential Solar Panel Maintenance Tips
Solar panel installation is a significant investment.
It promises many long-term benefits, including reduced electricity bills and carbon footprint.
However, proper solar panel maintenance and inspections are crucial.
Read on to find out how to maintain efficiency and longevity for your solar panels.
1. Regularly clean your residential solar panels
Solar panels are exposed to various environmental elements, such as:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Bird droppings
And more. These can accumulate and reduce their efficiency.
Regular cleaning is essential to remove these contaminants. Use a soft brush or sponge with a detergent to avoid scratching the surface of the panels.
Cleaning should be done at least twice a year if you live in an area with high pollution or bird activity.
You can find a solar panel cleaning or roof cleaning service in your area that will be able to do this for you.
2. Monitor for shading and keep surrounding vegetation in check
Shading can significantly impact the performance of solar panels. It should largely be avoided during the solar panel installation process, but sometimes it can’t be helped or things change.
Even partial shading on a small portion of a panel can reduce overall system efficiency.
It usually comes from nearby trees, buildings, or other obstructions.
Overhanging branches can also drop leaves, debris, or sap onto the panels, which reduces their efficiency.
3. Check your solar panels for damage
Checking your residential solar PV system for damage regularly. You should do this like you would check on any LCD display.
Damage could have occurred from birds, rodents, etc., or general wear and tear.
If your residential solar panels do appear to be damaged, you can always get in touch with your original installers or another solar specialist company.
4. Update firmware and software
Many modern solar panel systems come equipped with monitoring software. It allows you to ensure that everything in your system is running smoothly.
It is common for monitored systems to automatically update software and firmware. This gives you ongoing access to your system’s data.
If you have a Tesla Powerwall linked to your solar panel system, you can monitor the whole energy ecosystem in your property through the Tesla App. Tesla frequently improve and update their system, too.
5. Protect your solar panels against wildlife
One of the advantages of solar is the positive impact it has on the environment – bees and biodiversity benefit from solar farms, for example.
However, birds, rodents, and insects may be attracted to the space beneath solar panels for nesting or shelter.
Use mesh or other deterrents to prevent pests from nesting beneath the panels. This will reduce the chances of their presence causing a build-up of debris and potential damage.
6. Schedule professional inspections
While regular homeowner inspections are beneficial, it’s essential to schedule periodic professional inspections.
The qualified technicians at The Little Green Energy Company can conduct a thorough examination of your solar panel system, checking for issues that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye.
Professional inspections and servicing can catch potential problems early on and ensure the continued efficiency of your solar panels.
