Drastic price decreases have made residential solar panels obtainable for many homeowners. If you have installed solar panels, you can expect to get a usable life of about 25 to 30 years out of them. The newest models could last as long as 40-50 years.
As a smart homeowner, you’ll want to keep your new solar panel in peak condition. This will help extend their life and maintain their efficiency. Let’s take a look at what you need to know when it comes to solar panel maintenance.
Routine Maintenance
Solar panel maintenance is relatively easy. In essence, you want to keep the panels clean and clear of any debris in order to keep them operating efficiently.
About two to four times a year, you should perform general cleaning. You can use a leaf blower to remove any debris. You can also spray your panels with a garden hose.
Some people wonder if different types of solar panels need different maintenance. In general, residential solar panels need the same kind of maintenance.
Even ground-mounted and rooftop panels can be cleaned in the same way. Ground-mounted panels are just easier to access which makes periodic maintenance a little easier.
Special Weather Concerns
There are a few cases where you may need to do more than the recommended routine maintenance. These times are all weather dependent.
If you get heavy snow, it’s better to remove it. You can either use a long-handled squeegee or spray the panels with water.
Always make sure you use lukewarm water. Never use hot water as tempered glass panels are prone to cracking if there’s a large temperature disparity.
Heat can also be bothersome as you lose a small amount of efficiency over 77℉. Elevation of the panels will keep them cool through air circulation. Your installer will take this into account when installing them.
In general, solar panels are durable and can handle all kinds of weather. They can even withstand some hurricanes and hail. Unfortunately, they are not indestructible though.
Solar panels can become damaged in severe storms that include hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, or lighting. A good warranty should cover this damage. However, you should keep an eye out to get this damage repaired as soon as possible.
Solar Panel Repairs
While solar panel maintenance is mostly do-it-yourself, repairs and replacements should be left to a professional solar technician. Solar panel systems are complicated. You can learn more info about how they work specifically.
Unfortunately, the system can be damaged if you make a mistake and most warranties do cover repairs and replacements by a professional. Equipment warranties may cover replacement or repairs if the panels have physical damage. The performance or power output warranties can help if your panels are losing efficiency.
If either of these kinds of problems occurs, make a call to the best solar company in your area. They will be able to assess the situation and help you with the next steps.
Keep on Top of Solar Panel Maintenance
Solar panel maintenance is easy for the average homeowner. All you have to do is occasionally clean them and keep an eye out for damage. If you need repairs, simply call your installation company to get them back to peak condition.
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