Maintaining your solar panels regularly is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring your system will last for years to come. However, the maintenance frequency varies depending on your area’s climate.
Cleaning Frequency Depends On The Area’s Climate
Whether or not you have a solar-powered home, you need to keep your panels clean. This can be done by yourself or with the help of a professional to extend the lifespan of a solar panel and to use it efficiently. The frequency of cleaning varies by region and climate. The sun can cause a lot of damage to your panels if you’re not careful. You may also need to clean your panels after a storm. There are no hard and fast rules, but the most common frequency of cleaning is once a year. However, some people in drier climates might need to clean their panels more often—some areas experience more dirt and dust than others. Having regular rain can be a bonus.
Avoiding Abrasive Cleaners
Whether you’re cleaning solar panels or other surfaces, you don’t want to use harsh abrasive cleaners. This can damage your panels and may even void your warranty. However, there are steps you can take to avoid this costly problem. The best way to clean solar panels is with mild dish soap. You can apply the soap directly to the panel or wash it with a soft cloth. If you don’t want to use dish soap, use a mild detergent or cleaning solution. The solution should contain low alcohol levels. You should avoid scrubbing hard at the panel when using a soft cleaning cloth or sponge. This can scratch the glass. Alternatively, you can use a soft brush to get rid of debris. A telescopic hose wand can also give you better control over the spray.
Checking For Water Damage, Leaks, & Drainage Issues
Keeping your solar panels in good working order is a must. A few bucks on a new set of solar panels will pay for itself many times over in the long run. Having your panels inspected regularly will help you identify any small problems before they become major headaches. The most important part of the inspection is ensuring that the panels are properly conditioned. Inspecting the roof and gutters for the moisture is also a good idea. You should consider installing extra hardware to prevent any major problems. The best way to do this is to hire a qualified professional.
Monitoring Your Solar Panel System
Monitoring your solar panel system is an excellent way to ensure that it produces enough energy to cover your needs. However, it is vital to ensure that you choose a monitoring system that will accurately measure energy production in kWh. This will help you see whether your system produces more or less than you expected. A monitoring system will also allow you to see your system’s monthly, annual, and seasonal produce. The most effective monitoring solutions can also detect problems before they cost you money. These systems can help you determine how much energy your solar panels are producing and how much energy you’re wasting.
