Understanding solar panel system maintenance is crucial for not only those that have the systems already installed but for those who are considering having them installed in the near future. For those who already have solar power systems installed in their home, knowing how to properly maintain and care for that system is vital to its proper operation as well as any warranty coverage the homeowner may hope to retain. For those considering an installation, maintenance is an obligation that should be discussed and seriously considered prior to system purchase.
But how exactly does a homeowner perform solar panel system maintenance? We’re going to dig into what exactly the maintenance needs are going to be, and how much of a commitment they are going to need from the homeowner. In the end, we’ll also point you in the direction of some trusted local help if you think the maintenance will be too much hassle.
What Solar Panel System Maintenance Do Homeowners Need To Perform?
Paying Attention To The Manufacturer Guidelines
This is arguably the most important part of any solar panel system maintenance because it’s the care that has been prescribed by the equipment manufacturer themselves. Not only will the care guidelines frequently be listed in an easy-to-follow format, but in many cases, they will also be given to the homeowner at some point during the installation process.
These guidelines are often very easy to follow and involve little more than common sense measures to keep the panels in optimal condition. In some cases, it may stipulate that the panels be inspected every so often. It’s important to stay in line with these conditions, not only to keep your system working well for decades after installation but to ensure that warranty coverage remains valid if anything goes wrong.
Ensure The Panels Stay Moderately Clean
The other way to make sure your panels stay well-maintained and produce maximum power output is to make sure the panels stay free of significant dust, pollen, or dirt. There are two big reasons for this, power output and cell health. First, solar panels create power from the sun, and if the sunlight can’t get through a layer of filth, they can’t make power. Second, if the panels are still generating power, the cells are almost certainly unbalanced, and unbalanced cells can lead to premature failure.
Cleaning Your Panels
Most solar panels can be cleaned with the pressure from a garden hose, however, there are some cases where too much dirt has built up and the panels need more attention. In situations like these, you can use a mild soap or detergent solution, always non-abrasive, to clean the panels.
Leverage A Professional If Needed
Sometimes even after a thorough cleaning, you aren’t getting the output you need. Chances are if you’ve noticed it, your installers have noticed it through the panel monitoring capabilities. Provided the panels are still under their warranty and warranty coverage conditions have been fulfilled, the warranty work can be approved with a phone call and the work can be scheduled to take place as soon as possible.
Call A Local Professional For Solar Panel System Maintenance
Whether you already have a solar power system installed, or are gathering information to decide if you’ll eventually get one, Barrett Solar is ready to be your trusted local solar partner. Reach out today and tell us about your solar panel system maintenance needs, and we’ll tell you what we can do to help you meet those needs.
