Solar Panel Repairs – How to Keep Your Panels Clean

Solar panels generate clean energy for your household from sunlight, reducing your power bills and carbon footprint. A routine clean will ensure that your system performs to its optimum capacity and that your savings continue.

Based on an average residential solar installation in the 2280 postcode area, a homeowner consumes their own electricity and exports surplus energy back to the grid for a feed-in tariff of 5c per kW.

Dirty Panels

Solar energy is a greener alternative to fossil fuels, cutting household power bills and reducing carbon emissions. However, it is important to keep your panels clean to ensure maximum performance and a return on your investment.

Dirty panels can cause shading that significantly cuts energy output. Over time, accumulated dust, bird droppings, lichen and salt air can reduce your PV systems performance by up to 30%.

You can use a garden hose to spray your panels from the ground level, and a brush or cloth to wipe off the dirt. Be careful not to damage your panels, and don’t climb on the roof unless you are properly trained and equipped. Roof cabling may carry live electricity, and is not safe to touch.

You should also avoid cleaning your PV system on a hot day, as the sun will evaporate the water too quickly. Instead, pick an evening, cloudy or overcast day to clean your solar panels.

Dirty Frames

Solar panels can become clogged with dirt, dust, pollen, pigeon droppings and dead insects which decrease their ability to transfer energy efficiently. The best way to prevent these problems is by cleaning your solar panels regularly and inspecting them for damage twice a year. It’s important to check your solar company’s manual for specific maintenance tips.

Clean solar systems produce more power and reduce your energy bills. They also help the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Solar power is an excellent choice for Lake Macquarie residents because the region receives high sun irradiation throughout the year.

Residential solar systems generate over 25kW a day, which is enough to fully offset household electricity usage and even make profit during peak times when the retail electricity price is highest (depending on the feed-in tariff in your area). This system type can save you thousands of dollars and significantly reduce your carbon footprint. It can be purchased outright or leased and is typically backed by a warranty.

Damaged Panels

Damage to solar panels can decrease their performance, reducing energy savings. While it’s not entirely preventable, there are steps that can be taken to minimise damage. These include keeping trees and bushes away from panels and cleaning them regularly. It’s also important to regularly inspect your panels for signs of damage.

Some types of damage are more severe than others, and can require immediate attention. These include shattered glass, worn seals, and severe cracks. These issues can dramatically decrease your panel’s energy output and degrade the entire system over time.

Other signs of damage to solar panels can include dark streaks or discoloration. These are called snail trails and they can be caused by chemical reactions in the encapsulation material, which can reduce panel efficiency. These can be spotted by a visual inspection under proper lighting or by using electroluminescence testing. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to get them fixed quickly to maximise the life of your solar panel.

Damaged Frames

When solar panels are damaged, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the number of repairs needed and to improve energy efficiency.

A visual inspection can reveal broken or cracked glass, a problem with the frame, or a disconnected wire. However, more serious issues may require more advanced tests. A licensed solar technician with a test meter and other tools can determine the cause of the problems and offer helpful solutions.

Solar power systems are efficient energy-generating devices that are safe for the environment. They can also lower household energy bills and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions. Lake Macquarie residents can make the most of these benefits with a high-efficiency home solar system from one of the best local installers.

from Solar Panels Lake Macquarie https://ift.tt/wUKBWHv
via IFTTT