Common Mistakes to Avoid in Solar Panel Maintenance

America has the capacity to generate almost 140,000 megawatts of solar power by 2024. If you have solar panels, you have to prioritize regular maintenance. This ensures the longevity and efficiency of your solar panel system.

Proper maintenance can prevent issues that might lead to costly repairs. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes in their solar panel maintenance routines that can negatively impact their investment.

Keep reading to find out more about common mistakes when it comes to the maintenance of solar panels and how to avoid them.

Neglecting Regular Cleaning

One of the most common mistakes in solar panel maintenance is neglecting regular cleaning. Various things can accumulate on the surface of your solar panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight. Common issues include:

• Dust
• Dirt
• Pollen
• Bird droppings

Clean your solar panels regularly with a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid abrasive materials and high-pressure washers. They can all damage the protective coating.

Timing matters when cleaning your solar panels. Cleaning them during peak sunlight hours can result in quick drying. This also allows for the formation of streaks or spots.

It's best to clean your panels early in the morning or late in the evening. You want the surface to be cool and the sun's intensity to be lower.

It's a good idea to check for wildlife that may build nests under or on top of the panels. This can result in damage to:

• Wiring
• Connections
• The panels themselves

Using Harsh Cleaning Agents

While cleaning your solar panels is important, using harsh cleaning agents is a mistake to avoid. Abrasive chemicals, such as ammonia-based or abrasive cleaners, can damage the glass and coatings of your panels.

Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solutions, and always rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.

Inspect for Damage and Loose Connections

Loose electrical connections can adversely affect your system's efficiency and safety. This can lead to energy wastage, the risk of overheating, and operational irregularities.

As part of your routine maintenance, checking and securing all electrical connections to maintain peak performance is important.

Regularly inspect your solar panels for any indications of damage, including cracks, scratches, shattered glass, or any other signs that might jeopardize their functionality.

Ignoring Shading Issues

Shading is a critical factor that can drastically reduce the efficiency of your solar panel system. Common shading issues include overgrown trees, nearby buildings, or even dirt and debris accumulation.

Ignoring shading problems can lead to a significant drop in energy production. Regularly trim trees and bushes around your panels and keep them clear of obstructions.

Neglecting Inverter Maintenance

The inverter is a critical component of your solar panel system, responsible for converting DC electricity from the panels into AC electricity. Neglecting inverter maintenance is a common mistake.

Ensure that your inverter is free of debris, properly ventilated, and functioning correctly. Regularly check for warning lights or error messages on the inverter's display.

Maintenance of Solar Panels

It's essential to schedule periodic professional maintenance on solar panels. Certified technicians can identify potential issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. These inspections can prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs.

To schedule your next inspection, contact us today.