Maintenance of solar panels

To maximise the performance and lifetime of solar panels, it is essential that they are maintained on a regular basis. The maintenance of solar panels includes a variety of tasks aimed at ensuring their efficiency and prolonging their lifetime.

The importance of solar panel maintenance

Dust, dirt, leaves and other debris can accumulate on the surface of solar panels, blocking sunlight and reducing their efficiency. The conversion of solar energy to electricity is kept more efficient with regular cleaning.

Regular inspections can detect and resolve problems such as cracks in the panels or corrosion in the mounting brackets and structures before they become more serious problems.

Keeping solar panels in good condition can help them last longer and prevent the need for costly replacements.

To avoid electrical failure or fire, regular maintenance also checks the integrity of the electrical and structural connections.

To ensure the validity of the warranty, many solar panel manufacturers require regular maintenance.

By keeping solar panels operating at peak efficiency, the amount of energy generated is maximised and energy costs are reduced over time, resulting in an optimised return on investment.

Cleaning the solar panels

Use water and a soft brush or a specialised solar panel cleaner. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive materials that may damage the surface of the panels.

Precautions: To reduce the risk of thermal shock that can damage the panels, cleaning should be done during the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning.

It is recommended to clean at least twice a year. Although this may vary depending on the environment, it is recommended to clean the solar panels twice a year.

Dusty or desert areas: Dust accumulates quickly and can obstruct sunlight, so it may be necessary to clean the panels every month.

Areas where there are a lot of leaves and debris: Where there are many trees, especially during autumn, the panels may need to be cleaned more frequently, possibly every two to three months.

Areas with snow: Clearing snow from the panels during the winter is crucial to maintain their efficiency, although the frequency of this varies according to local snow conditions.

Inspection of components

Ensure that all electrical connections are free of corrosion or damage. To accomplish this, it is necessary to inspect the inverter and other related equipment to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Examine the solar panels for signs of physical damage, such as cracks, discolouration or delamination. Such damage has the potential to significantly decrease the efficiency of the panel.

Cables should be secured, protected and undamaged.

General: Every year, panels and related components should be visually inspected.

Corrosive environments (near the sea): Due to potential corrosion caused by salt in the air, more frequent inspections may be required, such as semi-annually.

Urban or industrial areas: Possible contamination and rapid fouling may also require semi-annual inspections to verify the condition of components.

Adjustment of mounting systems

Ensure that mounting structures and brackets are secure and free from rust. This is critical for safety, especially in areas prone to high winds or adverse weather conditions.

Panel alignment: To maximise solar energy collection, it is important to check that movement mechanisms are working properly and that panels are correctly aligned with the sun on some systems, especially those with solar tracking.

General: Conduct an annual check to ensure that everything is in good condition and working properly.

Areas that may experience high winds or storms: More frequent checks, possibly every six months, are prudent to make sure there is no structural damage or maladjustment caused by extreme weather.

Verifying system performance

Use monitoring tools to ensure that energy production meets expectations. Significant discrepancies may indicate problems that require further investigation.

If available, use automated systems to monitor system performance each month.

After extreme events, such as storms or hurricanes, it is advisable to perform additional performance checks to ensure that performance is not negatively affected.

Energy audits

Conduct regular audits to assess overall system performance and identify potential improvements or repairs.

Conduct a full energy audit every two years to assess the efficiency and long-term performance of the system.

Selecting a solar panel maintenance company

To choose an efficient and reliable solar panel maintenance company, consider the following:

Experience and credentials: Look for experienced certified companies and technicians and check their references and testimonials.

Licensing and insurance: Make sure the company is properly licensed and insured to protect your property and employees.

Services offered: Choose companies that offer a wide range of services, such as performance monitoring, repairs and preventive maintenance.

Availability and response: Choose companies that are close to your property and respond to emergencies quickly.

Transparency and cost: Prefer companies that offer clear pricing and contracts with no hidden costs.

In terms of services that should be included in a maintenance contract, these are as follows:

• Annual cleaning and inspection of components.
• Monitoring performance to detect potential problems.
• Repair services, including preferential rates for major repairs.
• Detailed after-maintenance report and technical support available.

Legal and safety implications of plate maintenance

To protect workers during maintenance, specific safety procedures must be followed. To ensure safety and prevent fire hazards, systems must comply with local and national electrical codes.

Maintenance companies require appropriate licences, and some system modifications may require specific permits. Panels must be installed and maintained in accordance with local building and zoning laws.

To remain valid, warranty terms often require regular maintenance by certified professionals. Proper maintenance may be acceptable to the property insurer.

Estimated maintenance costs

Maintenance costs for a solar panel system can vary depending on its size, location, and frequency of service required.

Panel Cleaning: A professional cleaning can cost between 10 and 20 EUR per panel, depending on accessibility and height of the installation.

Annual Inspections: A detailed inspection including verification of electrical and structural components can cost between 150 and 300 EUR.

Repairs: Costs vary depending on the type of problem; minor repairs can cost a few hundred dollars, while more serious problems, such as replacing inverters or panels, can be much more expensive.

Maintenance Contracts: Many companies may offer maintenance contracts that can cost between 300 and 700 EUR per year for inspections, cleaning, and some minor repairs.

Benefits: energy efficiency and lifetime

Regular cleaning of solar panels can increase their efficiency by up to 30%, resulting in higher energy production and electricity bill savings.

Proper maintenance can reduce annual depreciation and maximise return on investment by extending the life of a solar system beyond the typical 25 to 30 years.

Inspections and preventive maintenance help find and resolve problems before they become major failures, avoiding high repair costs and lost energy production.

Conclusion about solar panels maintenance

Maintenance costs may seem like an additional investment, but the savings from increased efficiency and extended system life often outweigh these expenses.

In addition, a well-maintained system is less likely to experience unplanned outages, ensuring stable and consistent power generation. Finally, it is essential to invest in maintenance to maximise the economic profitability and sustainability of the solar system.

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