Solar panels have become a viable source of alternative energy, because they offer a number of benefits to homeowners. They can go a long way toward making your property more energy-efficient, which will improve its value. They can also contribute to creating a more sustainable environment. But like any other system inside your home, solar panels require maintenance and even occasional repairs. Something is going to break at some point throughout its life, and knowing what could go wrong can be helpful in determining the source of a problem when it happens.
Common Issues Related to Solar Panels
Solar panels are usually considered “low maintenance,” but they can still experience certain recurring problems. Some of them include the following:
- Broken glass or solar cells — The glass surface and photovoltaic cells located under it are fragile, so they can become loose or corroded. This can lower the efficiency of your solar panels and can even allow moisture to damage the internal components
- Loose or corroded connections — The metal connectors inside solar panel systems can become loose or corroded over time, which can cause power loss or even complete system failure.
- Burnt-out inverter — The inverter plays an important role in the operation of your solar panels, because it converts the direct current (DC) from your panels to an alternating current (AC) for your home. But it can burn out over time, which will result in system failure.
- Declining performance caused by dirt buildup or shading — The accumulation of dirt or dust on the surface of a solar panel system and even shading from surrounding trees or nearby structures can have an adverse effect on its performance.
There are also times when solar panels will fail because of their age or a defect in the manufacturing.
Common Types of Solar System Repair
There are some types of solar panel repair that require the expertise of a professional. But if you’re willing to take a more hands-on approach, there are others that you can easily do yourself. Some of them include the following:
- Cleaning your solar panels — One way to keep your solar panels maintained is to keep them from dirt, debris, and bird droppings by cleaning them regularly. Use a soft brush, squeegee, or any other type of gentle cleaning equipment. Be sure to use mild soapy water or a special type of solar panel cleaner. You also want to avoid using any abrasive or harsh cleaning materials, because they can damage the surface.
- Tightening loose connections — Check all the junctions and connections at least once a year. You should also tighten up any loose parts. This will make sure there is optimal power transfer inside your solar panel system.
- Replacing inverters that have burnt out — If an inverter has burnt out, you can buy a new one that meets your system’s specifications. You can then replace the defective inverter by disconnecting and reconnecting wires according to the manufacturer’s instructions, but make sure to turn off the system during the process to prevent any electrical hazards.
- Resolving shading issues — Trim any tree branches or remove obstacles that can keep sunlight from getting to your solar panels. You should also adjust the angle of your solar panels to make sure you’re getting an optimal level of sun exposure. This is especially true during seasonal changes.
Be sure to speak to a professional for more information about how to keep your solar panel system at peak efficiency.
Solar Panel Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is an important part of maximizing the efficiency of your solar panel system, so here are tips on how you can keep them in good condition:
- Check your solar panels for any physical damage, debris, or shading at least once every three months.
- Clean the panels with a damp cloth or soft brush with mild soapy water if you see any significant accumulation of dirt. You can also use a specific solar panel cleaning solution.
- Monitor your system’s performance by checking the inverter display on a regular basis or by using a monitoring app (if it’s available).
There are some situations where you will need to call a professional (such as when you have to fix cracked panels or replace damaged solar cells). It can also be necessary if DIY attempts aren’t taking care of the problem (such as when there’s a decline in performance or when there are recurring inverter failures). If you’re facing any of these situations, it’s best to contact a professional for solar panel repair.
If you’re looking for one of the best places for repairing solar panels in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Solar Power Integrator.