What Solar Panel System Maintenance do Homeowners Need to Perform?

solar panel system maintenance

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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.

Do solar panels require maintenance?

Solar panel systems are made of durable tempered glass and require little to no maintenance for the 25 to 35 years that they will generate power. In most cases, you don’t even need to clean your solar panels. You can let the rain or snow take care of that for you. If something does happen, you will have manufacturer warranties on all equipment installed by Barrett Solar.

What Solar rebates and incentives are available In Kansas?

Solar rebates and incentives vary depending on where you live. In Kansas the largest incentive available is the 26% federal investment tax credit (ITC) which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of your solar energy system from your taxes. Certain municipalities and utilities also offer cash rebates and other incentives. If you are a business in a rural area or a farmer, the USDA offers grants as well.

What Solar rebates and incentives are available In Missouri?

Solar rebates and incentives vary depending on where you live. In Missouri the largest incentive available is the 26% federal investment tax credit (ITC) which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of your solar energy system from your taxes. Certain municipalities and utilities also offer cash rebates and other incentives. Evergy in Missouri, Columbia power and Ameren have notable rebates available. If you are a business owner in a rural area or a farmer, the USDA offers grants as well.

What are my solar financing options?

Barrett Solar offers two options to finance your solar panel system. You can purchase your system in cash or take advantage of our zero down, low APR financing options. We have a lot of different options to choose from. 

What happens if my solar panels are damaged with hail or by a large storm?

Generally it takes very large hail or a major storm to damage your solar panel system. After you go solar you will want to make sure your homeowners insurance policy has enough coverage to replace any of your panels that may be damaged in a heavy storm.

How much do solar panels cost?

The cost of a solar panel system will depend on many factors, including the size of the system, the equipment, and the financing method. A solar panel system should be viewed as a major home upgrade, and because every home is different it is never good to base an idea of what something should cost off a ballpark figure found on the internet. Barrett Solar offers completely free no obligation solar proposals, and in most cases we can give you an accurate quote with just your historical energy usage data.

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Tyler Blanchard

Founder & CEO

Tyler is the CEO of Barrett Solar.

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