Have solar panels and want to make sure you are getting the most out of your investment? Solar maintenance and cleaning keeps your investment in tip-top condition, making sure you are getting the most power out of them and not paying electricity companies for their power. And it’s not expensive or hard to do!
Regular maintenance ensures your system not only continues to perform at its best but also safeguards your investment against future complications. This is where the expertise of a Qualified Clean Energy Solar Electrician like us at Max Power, becomes invaluable. Every year or two, or after an environmental cause like a dust storm, a storm that causes lots of leaves to fall, or simply before spring every year you should book in service.
Why Professional Solar Maintenance Service is Essential
A professional maintenance service goes beyond simple upkeep. With a full system audit, you receive an exhaustive examination of your solar setup, ensuring every component functions optimally. The service includes a thorough written report and photographic evidence of all tests conducted, offering you complete transparency and peace of mind. Such meticulous inspection not only protects your investment but also guarantees adherence to local regulatory requirements—a crucial aspect of solar ownership.
The Comprehensive Check
During a maintenance visit from our Max Power team, nothing is left to chance. Every connection, from the switchboard to the inverter, is meticulously reviewed to ensure there are no underlying issues. AC-DC isolators are inspected for faults, and the system’s age and output are evaluated to confirm performance meets expectations. For any solar system owner confused by their utility bill, this service provides clarity and solutions, addressing any discrepancies between expected and actual energy production. Moreover, while minor issues are resolved on-site as part of the service, any major concerns are thoroughly documented, and a detailed quote is provided for any necessary approvals.
Assessing and Enhancing System Performance
Determining the need for cleaning or additional preventative maintenance is an integral part of the service. Although cleaning is recommended at each service to boost efficiency, it’s tailored to your system’s location and specific site conditions—ensuring you receive only the services you truly need. This thoughtful approach not only optimises your system’s performance but also ensures you’re not paying for unnecessary work.
Understanding Your Solar Energy System
To truly maximise the life and efficiency of your solar energy system, understanding of its components and their functionalities is essential. And we don’t expect the average householder to understand all about solar panels. So here is a quick rundown. Solar energy systems are composed of several key elements, each playing a crucial role in converting sunlight into usable electricity or heat. Below is a breakdown of these components and their significance:
Solar Panels
At the heart of any solar energy system lie the solar panels, which are numerous photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are responsible for converting sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
Inverters and Optimisers:
The inverter’s primary role is to convert the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which powers most homes and businesses. Solar optimisers regulate the voltage and current output of individual solar panels, ensuring they operate at their Maximum Power Point (MPP) for enhanced performance. This is particularly beneficial in overcoming panel mismatch due to shade, dirt, or manufacturing inconsistencies.
The Essentials of Solar Panel Care
Maintaining optimal performance and extending the lifespan of solar panels necessitates a comprehensive approach to care. Key practices in solar panel maintenance include:
Visual Checks: Every 6 months, visually inspect solar panels for any physical damages such as cracks, discolouration, or loose connections. This helps in identifying issues before they escalate.
Performance Monitoring: Utilise solar monitoring systems to track the energy output. A significant drop in performance could indicate a problem that requires attention.
Cleaning Solar Panels: Clean solar panels at least once a year to remove dust, bird droppings, and other debris. For cleaning, use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge with mild soapy water. Avoid harsh cleaning materials that could scratch the panels. We recommend only professional cleaning by an electrician as DIY solar panel cleaning is dangerous due to the location of panels on the roof and that if you also stuff it up it’s expensive to fix. Plus the most important fact is that the panels connect to a power supply and only electricians should be touching them. Our Max Power team has the specialist equipment to clean also, we come with much more than a soft cloth!!
Professional Solar Servicing
- Qualified Clean Energy Solar electrician.
- Full audit of your system.
- Full written report and photos of all testing we carry out.
- The report and inspection not only protect your investment but also ensure compliance with local supply authority requirements of having your system maintained.
- We fix anything minor as part of our service while on-site.
- If we find anything major then this would be quoted for approval once you have been fully advised.
- Check all connections at the switchboard and inverter plus inspect AC-DC isolators to ensure no issues.
- Assess the age of the system vs the output of the system to confirm the product is as expected which will determine if there is an issue.
- Check the bill if the client has any issues as these can be very confusing.
- Make any recommendations regarding preventative maintenance.
- Cleaning the system is recommended at every service at an additional cost but in some cases not always required depending on installation location and site specifics.
The Financial Benefits of Maintenance
The financial benefits of regular maintenance and servicing of solar energy systems are both immediate and long-term, contributing significantly to the overall value of the investment. Key aspects include:
Lower Energy Bills: By generating electricity, solar panels reduce the need to purchase power from the grid, especially during peak daylight hours. This can lead to substantial savings on utility bills.
Extended System Lifespan and Efficiency: Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and inspections, can boost energy production by approximately 15%, extending the system’s operational life and enhancing its return on investment (ROI).
Incorporating these strategies ensures that the investment in solar energy not only pays for itself over time but also contributes to a more sustainable and financially beneficial future.
FAQs
How Can I Extend the Life of My Solar Panels?
To ensure your solar panels last as long as possible, it’s crucial to conduct regular inspections and cleanings. Aim to book a service for any signs of damage, wear, or accumulation of dirt at least every couple of years. If your location is prone to dust or leaf debris, these checks should be done more frequently.
What Are the Best Practices to Fully Utilise My Solar Energy System?
To maximise the benefits of your solar energy system, consider the following strategies:
- Utilise your solar power during the day as much as possible.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient electric hot water system.
- Invest in a solar battery to store excess solar energy.
- Regularly maintain your solar system to ensure its efficiency.
- Transition to electric appliances and systems where possible.
What Steps Can I Take to Ensure My Solar Panels Last Longer?
To enhance the durability of your solar panels, follow this maintenance guide:
- Familiarise yourself with the expected lifespan of your solar panels.
- Regularly monitor your solar panels for any issues.
- Clean your solar panels periodically to remove any debris or dirt.
- Check for and address any shading that may affect your panels.
- Schedule professional inspections routinely.
- Prepare for weather conditions that could impact your panels.
- Utilise warranties for repairs and maintenance.
What Kind of Maintenance Do Solar Panels Require?
Maintaining solar panels in top condition requires cleaning them at least twice a year, ideally at the end of fall and the beginning of winter. If your solar panels are in a location that experiences high levels of dust, pollen, or dirt, it’s advisable to clean them more frequently, such as every three months, to ensure their optimal performance.
