Solar panel maintenance: Everything you need to know



Solar panels are a great investment that can provide you with cheap, renewable solar energy for the next 25 years or more. But a key question is, how do you maintain them? Are solar panels like your car, requiring regular tune-ups to stay in peak condition? Or are you supposed to just leave them be? 

Do solar panels need to be maintained? 

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance in order to function, so yes, you can usually just let them be. The only thing they need is a periodic light cleaning to make sure dirt, leaves, and other debris aren't obstructing the sun's rays.

How do you maintain solar panels? 

If your panels are tilted, you’re in luck: rainfall will actually clear away debris that's accumulated on them. However, during the dry season or extended periods without rain, it's important to clean them manually. 

It is generally recommended that you perform solar panel cleaning between two and four times per year. While that might seem like a lot, the good news is that this doesn’t require much work. All you really need is a leaf blower or a quick spray with a garden hose, and your panels will be clean and in top condition.

Ground-mounted panels vs. rooftop panels - is there a maintenance difference? 

When it comes to maintenance, the only real difference between ground mounted Solar systems and rooftop solar systems is that ground panels are easier to access, and therefore easier to keep clean. If you notice a buildup of snow or other debris, you can simply sweep it off with a soft-bristled broom.

How does extreme weather impact your solar panels? 

Solar panels are designed to be durable. Top-quality solar panel installations allow PV systems to withstand all kinds of weather, from wind and rain to snow and more. 

Of course, they are not 100% indestructible; on rare occasions they can suffer damage by hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. But as long as you have a good warranty, you should be able to have any damaged panels repaired or replaced. 

Somewhat ironically, the type of weather that most commonly affects panels is heat. When the temperature gets over 77°F (or 25°C), panels lose efficiency approximately 1% per degree.

However, by elevating them a few inches above the ground or roof, you allow for air circulation, which can help cool them down and maintain energy production. Solar panel performance in hot temperatures is not something to stress too much about, your solar installer will take local climate factors into consideration when installing panels. 

How to repair or replace solar panels 

If your panels need to be repaired or replaced, it's best to hire a professional. 

If they're losing efficiency and still under a performance or power output warranty, then call the company that installed your panels. They will send someone to assess the situation and either fix the problem or replace the panels. 

If your panels have sustained physical damage, that's often covered under a separate equipment warranty. You can work with your solar installer to find out who can best replace those panels. Either way, don't attempt to install solar panels or make repairs yourself unless you're experienced with home solar systems.

What is the standard warranty for solar panels? 

It is important to ensure that the solar panels you install come with a good warranty, if your solar panels' efficiency does start to decrease, it can potentially cost you thousands of dollars over the years. 

If your solar panel is covered under a warranty, the company who installed it will provide a replacement. A good solar company will give you a warranty of between 15 and 25 years, and guarantee that your panels' energy production remains at 80% or above for that entire time.

So, are solar panels hard to maintain? 

All in all, maintaining your solar panels is pretty easy. If you notice dust, or debris piled up, a quick clean will ensure that your panels operate effectively. Additionally, be sure the panels you get  come with a good warranty so if your panels do break, they get replaced. 

Do that, and your panels should continue to operate at peak efficiency, bringing you clean, renewable solar power for years to come. 

Pontus Technology is also very much available to help you maintain your Solar system and batteries.

We are located at O'neal Centre, plot 360. Obafemi Awolowo way Jabi Abuja.

you can also reach us via call/whatsapp 07031053693, 08032755412 .

For more information visit our website www.pontustechnology.com

.....your comfort, our priority 

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