Solar panel systems are a reliable, long-term investment for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint. However, installing solar panels comes with a few responsibilities too.
Like any other system, solar panels require regular maintenance to keep them functioning at their best. Proper care ensures they continue producing energy efficiently for years.
There are two main types of maintenance:
- Routine maintenance: Includes cleaning and visual checks.
- Major repairs: Needed when something breaks or deteriorates.
Key components of solar PV systems that need regular care include the panels themselves, the inverter, and the wiring. Routine maintenance is generally low-cost, but the price can increase if significant solar panel repairs are required.
People who are in the decision phase about solar panels want to know what its maintenance entails. This article will cover the signs that your system needs attention, what to look for during inspections, and what does solar panel maintenance cost. It covers everything you need to know about keeping your solar panels in good condition.
Signs that Your Solar Panels Need Maintenance?
It’s important to know when your solar panels need attention. Ignoring issues could lead to more significant problems down the line. Here are some common signs that solar maintenance may be necessary:
Unclean Surface
Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the surface of your solar panels, reducing their efficiency. If you notice a significant amount of grime on the panels, it may be time for a cleaning. In areas with heavy pollution or bird activity, cleaning might be needed more frequently.
Cracks or Chips
Solar panels can get damaged by weather conditions, falling debris, or physical impact. Cracks and chips can affect their ability to absorb sunlight and generate power. It’s crucial to check the panels regularly for visible damage.
Decreased Efficiency Due to Aging
Over time, solar panels naturally lose some of their efficiency. If you notice a noticeable drop in energy production compared to previous years, it may be a sign that your panels need maintenance or even replacement.
Wiring Issues
Loose or damaged wiring can cause interruptions in the energy flow, leading to a drop in system performance. If you experience issues like tripped circuit breakers or unusual system behavior, it’s essential to check the wiring and connections.
Inspecting Solar Panels for Damage
Regular visual inspections are essential to ensure your solar panels are in good condition. Start by visually checking for any cracks, chips, or other visible signs of damage on the surface of the panels. Small damage might not immediately affect performance but could worsen over time, leading to significant issues.
Next, inspect the wiring. Loose or frayed wires can result in energy loss or even system failure. Ensure all connections are secure and in good condition. Also, assess the inverter, which is responsible for converting the DC power generated by the panels into usable AC power. If the inverter is overheating or showing error codes, it might need repair or replacement.
When inspecting your system, if you notice anything unusual or are unsure of the condition of the panels, it’s best to consult a professional. A certified technician can perform a thorough inspection and suggest any necessary repairs.
Monitoring Solar Panel Performance
Monitoring the performance of your solar panel system is an essential part of maintaining its efficiency. Many systems come with built-in monitoring tools that track energy production in real time. These tools can show you how much electricity your system is generating and if it’s performing as expected.
If you notice a drop in solar energy output, this could indicate a problem, such as damage to the panels or an issue with the inverter. Many solar panel manufacturers also provide software tools to effectively track the system’s performance. The data fed into the system and analysed through analytical models makes it easier to identify performance issues early.
If performance drops significantly, it may be time to schedule a maintenance checkup. At times, dirt and debris might also cause the production to drop.
Clean solar panels can improve the efficiency of the entire system. Solar panel cleaning can be done by oneself. However, once a year, hiring professional cleaning can be a wise decision to keep the panels in good shape.
So, before you blame wiring, solar batteries, or technical issues for the trouble, consider checking whether the panels need cleaning. Many times, after the rain, the panels get dirty as well.
Therefore, regular monitoring will help you catch both small and big issues early. Identifying these issues and resolving them is important because if ignored, they might turn into costly repairs.
Solar Panel Maintenance Costs
The cost of solar panel maintenance varies depending on the type of service you need. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning and inspections, typically costs between £100-£200 annually. Many solar panel providers offer maintenance packages or service plans that cover regular checkups and cleaning, usually costing around £150 per year.
If your panels require more in-depth maintenance, such as repairs to wiring or the inverter, costs can increase. For example, inverter replacement can range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the brand and model. However, proper maintenance can help reduce the likelihood of major repairs, potentially saving you money in the long run.
The battery is one of the most expensive components of the solar systems. The cost of the battery depends on its capacity, type, and chemical composition. The price of solar battery storage systems lies between £2,500 and £10,000.
The life of the battery is between 5-10 years after which you need to account for battery replacement as a cost to maintain your solar system. However, if your battery incurs damage, it might need replacement before its expected life too.
Maintaining your system properly also helps ensure you maximize the lifespan of your panels, which typically lasts 25-30 years, making regular upkeep a worthwhile investment. To keep your system in check, hire professional maintenance services from professionals like Samso Solar to stay worry-free about your investment.
Professional Maintenance Services vs. DIY Maintenance
While there are some maintenance tasks homeowners can handle, such as cleaning the panels or checking for visible damage, professional services are often necessary for more complex issues. Professionals, like those at Samso Solar, have the expertise to safely inspect and repair the system, ensuring everything is functioning properly.
Advantages of hiring a professional include safety, especially when dealing with electrical components, and warranty coverage. Many solar panel warranties require professional inspections or maintenance to remain valid.
On the other hand, DIY tasks like cleaning the panels or trimming nearby trees are simple and cost-effective ways to keep the system in good shape.
Attempting advanced repairs on your own, such as working with the inverter or electrical connections, can be risky and may void the warranty. It’s best to call a professional if you’re unsure about handling more complicated repairs.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your solar panels continue to perform efficiently. Routine cleaning, inspections, and monitoring can help catch issues early and avoid costly repairs.
So, are solar panels worth the hassle?
The answer is yes. Homeowners can handle some maintenance tasks like routine cleaning and visible inspections. the need to hire professionals arises when the issue is more complex.
Regular servicing from professionals and keeping a check of routine maintenance can help maximize its energy production. It can also increase the lifespan of the system, reaping more ROI from your investment. So, don’t wait until there’s a major issue—stay proactive with your solar panel maintenance.
