The best thing about solar panels is that they are durable and easy to maintain. Usually, solar panels last anywhere between 20 to 25 years. And while solar panels are already designed for longer life cycles and higher efficiencies, here are a few simple tips that will help you get the best out of your solar panels and to keep them strong for years to come. Let’s see what these tips are.
1. Make Sure The Solar Panels Aren’t Corroded
Make sure you check the solar panels for corrosion due to rust, weathering and any other damages at least two times a year. In case you live by the sea, you may want to check more often. Let’s say every three months.
Even the highly rust-resistant panels are subject to rust in case the vacuumed sealed back sheet develops any cracks. Also, rust can reduce the efficiency of your solar panel system. What’s worse, if left unattended, the rust may even lead to a safety hazard. So if you see any signs of rust, weathering or any other damage to your solar panel, immediately call an expert for a checkup.
2. Check Wiring For Damages
Any damage to the wiring can cause serious electrical hazards. To avoid the same, you need to check the wirings on a regular basis. Make sure they are not damaged and are not exposed to dirt or water.
Also, solar panels can be a home to birds that may try to nest underneath them. Similarly rodents such as rats, squirrels, beavers may cause damage to the wiring. So besides the regular checkups make sure you keep an eye on the wiring for any damages whatsoever.
3. Keep Your Solar Panels Clean
If your solar panels are installed at an angle it won’t be a problem to maintain them. A bi-annual cleanup should suffice as the panels will get washed by the natural rainfall and it will take care of the dust, debris, bird drops and other pollutants. You can simply rinse the panel with a garden hose. In case there are stains that are hard to remove, you may use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean it up.
If you have to get onto the solar panels to clean them, make sure it is safe. Also, if the weather’s hot, start early morning or late afternoon to try finishing the work during the cooler parts of the day. You may also get the expert to do the job for you while they are there for a routine check up.
4. Ensure Access To Isolator Switches Are Clear
Your isolator switch is an important part of your solar power system. Make sure you have clear access to your isolator switch as it is this switch that will help you disconnect the solar power system, in case there’s any emergency.
You would also need this switch at the time of maintenance, repairs or upgrades. To ensure that this switch is easily accessible, make sure you don’t store anything in front of this switch.
5. Get Routine System Fault Checks Done.
Do you know system faults can be life hazardous? To avoid all risks, you must keep a check on your solar inverter panel for any such indications. Your solar inverter manufacturer would have provided a handbook that explains what different indicators indicate and what if any of there’s a change in color in any of these indicators. Similarly, if you are experiencing any drop in panel efficiency or any such issue then you must get the system checked ASAP.
Want to buy a new solar panel?
Whether you want to buy a new solar panel or upgrade your existing one, you should go with a reputable brand like Luminous India. It’s a name synonymous with quality products. Also, you get to choose from a wide range of products that are available at reasonable prices.
