There are plenty of reasons that make people to install rooftop solar panels in their homes. Firstly, they are the best ways to save money on electricity bills by a significant amount. Secondly, solar power can reduce the carbon footprint of a home and business because solar power is a form of renewable energy. Plus, solar panels with battery storage eliminate the dependence on the power grid by providing reliable power all the time.
Adopting solar solutions for homes and businesses is not the only thing. Once installed perfectly and properly, you need to take care of your rooftop solar systems through periodic cleaning and maintenance. The reliable solar installation company informs their clients about all the preventive and corrective maintenance tips and tricks after installation. Luckily, the maintenance spending issue can be solved with the investment of 1,000-3,000 Indian Rupees.
If you are a starter and don’t know much about the maintenance and repair of rooftop solar systems, then follow this guide.
Do Rooftop Solar Systems Need Maintenance?
Solar panels having no moving parts are designed to handle the load in all types of environmental conditions. They can withstand extreme climatic conditions like snow, wind, hail, and ice to offer lasting performance. Moreover, they are made of anodized aluminum frame and tempered glass; hence they need minimal maintenance.
Solar panels require unobstructed access to the sunlight to perform optimally. So, you need to keep the surface of your panel free from obstacles like dust, leaves, and other debris through periodic cleaning.
Once you start noticing any drop in the energy output of your rooftop solar systems, it might signal the need to clean them. Regular cleaning of the modules and basic maintenance like reviewing components for overheating, damage, loose connections, etc. ensure longer durability.
Why is Solar Panel Maintenance Necessary?
Just like a human body that needs proper care to stay fit, rooftop solar panels also need proper maintenance to last 25-30 years. Regular repair and maintenance ensure the long life of all types of solar panels. Ignoring solar system cleaning can cost you in the form of repair and replacement of damaged or faulty components. You may not enjoy cost saving through solar power as skipping periodic cleaning could result in losing up to 15-25% of energy efficiency.
Cleaning flat carport solar panels doubled electricity production overnight, as reported by a Google study. After eight months, when solar systems were again cleaned, the energy output improved by 36%. Concluding the report, it has been observed that solar panel cleaning was the best way for enhanced energy efficiency.
How to Clean Rooftop Solar Systems?
Regular removal of leaves, dust, dirt, and debris ensures panels absorb sunlight directly without any obstacles. Usually, rain removes the collected debris from slightly tilted panels. But, during dry seasons, you need to manually clean leaves and dust.
Use some water and a soft cotton cloth or a brush to avoid scratches. Spray clean water on panels in the morning and evening. Make sure you spray water before using a wiper for solar panel cleaning. Never use harsh chemicals and too hot or cold water as they can cause solar panel damage. Also, avoid using soap or cleaning agents for cleaning as they can result in streaks.
In case, you need to remove heavier deposits from the panel surface, spray lukewarm water using a garden hose. It brings down the deposits. Next, wipe them down using a microfiber and non-abrasive cloth. If you clean them on the roof, do it safely using a safety harness to avoid falls. Experts recommend a telescopic pole with an attached microfiber cloth to safely clean panels from the ground.
Remember not to clean your panels during peak hours of solar power production, i.e. between 10 am to 5 pm. Cleaning panels during peak energy generation hours can result in module damage due to the excessive temperature of the device. Avoid cleaning on a sunny day as it can leave smudges. The reason is that water can evaporate quickly.
Rooftop solar systems cleaning in winter is not tough as collected snow and ice generally melt and slide off. However, when ice or snow persists, spray lukewarm water to get rid of them. In addition, you can use a non-abrasive brush to remove them without any risk of scratches. Furthermore, you can use a solar panel cleaning kit that consists of a biodegradable soap, a long-handled brush, and a wiper.
Rooftop Solar System Maintenance Tips
You can keep your solar panels in optimum condition by implementing the following rooftop solar system maintenance tips. In addition, these tips will help you to ensure that your solar systems constantly produce electricity efficiently.
Periodic inspection and cleaning
Evaluate your solar panels for possible signs of damage, debris, or dirt. Clean your systems carefully, keeping into consideration all essential tips as mentioned above.
Sun exposure
Your solar panels must get direct sunlight throughout daytime hours to convert it into renewable energy. Be sure that there are no trees and buildings nearby to create shade. By keeping solar panels in a place with direct sunlight orientation, you can increase their durability.
Evaluate power consumption
Track the performance and energy output of your solar systems by installing an energy monitor. Determine the energy generation totals of each installed solar panel to ensure that all panels are producing electricity properly, as expected. If you notice any drop in the electricity production, consult your installer for essential inspection and repair.
Check power production and panel cleaning daily. Moreover, inspect your PV modules once every 15 days. Check the output voltage and all the necessary connections every 6 months while maintaining your solar panels.
Check components regularly
Inspect all solar components when cleaning your solar panels. Check the wiring for loose connections, mounting rack, and other components. Identify if there is any possible sign of leaks, water damage, or drainage problems. Also, look for the broken glass, frayed wiring, or missing bolts. If there is something wrong, contact your installer for the best possible solution.
How Often Rooftop Solar Systems Should Be Maintained?
Solar panels require maintenance two times annually. Ask your solar installer or check the company’s manual for particular maintenance and care. Clean your panels when you see falling leaves, bird droppings, dust, and debris on the panel surface. Understand solar panel cleaning facts to understand key safety precautions, do’s, don’ts, etc.
Final Words
In conclusion, at least two times maintenance annually is necessary to identify and repair any issues earlier and ensure optimal performance. If you are not sure whether your solar panels need cleaning or maintenance, our experts will help you. Megamax Solar installation services come with AMC (annual maintenance contract) to let clients ensure seamless solar power production back-to-back without stressing about maintenance.
The experts perform periodic cleaning and examine solar panels for possible signs of damage and inefficient operations. This helps in the earlier detection and repair of any damage and makes sure solar panels continue their efficient functions throughout 25-30 years.