There are many reasons why you should perform solar panel preventative maintenance. Problems with your solar panels can range from minor fixes to more complex ones. Sometimes they can even be caused by a malfunctioning inverter or a faulty wire connecting the panels to the inverter. Luckily, such problems are rare. Read on to discover why you should perform solar panel preventative maintenance. This article will cover four of the most common reasons.

Costs

The cost of solar panel preventative maintenance and repair varies considerably. A typical repair may cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000, depending on the problem. Repairs are necessary for many reasons, including diminished performance, electricity shorts, and the risk of a house fire. Fortunately, solar panels are durable and can last for over 20 years. Nonetheless, they should still be serviced regularly by professional solar companies in Austin. Listed below are the most common problems and their average repair cost.

The vast majority of PV system maintenance is preventative. This type of maintenance involves regular cleaning and servicing. In the long term, it’s worth the cost because PV systems don’t have moving parts, so replacing them isn’t a constant expense. However, regular solar system expenses come from associated labor costs, warranties, and cleaning. As a result, even the most minor issues can quickly turn into significant losses. This is why preventative maintenance is essential for solar assets.

Methods

According to solar companies in Austin, there are several methods for solar panel preventative maintenance. First, the technician performing the work will review all electrical and physical components of the solar array. Next, they will evaluate the panel setup, review all connections, and evaluate utility meter reports. After that, they will determine the state of the inverter and apply any corrective maintenance measures. If these steps are insufficient, they will recommend a plan for your maintenance. However, the cost of implementing such a plan will be high, and the maintenance technician may have to spend extra time on it.

Visually inspect your solar modules regularly to check for cracks and other damage. Note any apparent flaws in the system logbook. A cracked solar panel will decrease its power output. Cracked modules are vulnerable to changes in temperature, causing them to expand and contract. The longer a broken solar cell goes without repair, the less power it will produce. A professional solar panel inspector can help you determine the appropriate maintenance plan for your needs.

Seasons

The winter season is a great time to examine and prepare your solar panels for the winter season ahead. Springtime is another excellent time to perform preventative maintenance. Regularly cleaning your panels will prevent debris from getting in the way of the sun and decrease the energy output of your solar power system. Cleaning should be done once a year, but more frequent cleaning may be necessary for specific climates. Contact a solar installer to perform annual inspections and make necessary repairs.

There is no industry standard for determining the best frequency for solar panel preventive maintenance. Each component in a standard PV system has slightly different servicing requirements and product lifetimes. There are two competing schools of thought regarding preventive maintenance schedules: one strategy leaves your PV system as it is for most of the year, and the other is to intervene only when unusual performance dips are noticed. For example, preventative maintenance schedules can help catch minor problems early and allow you to save money on electricity costs and carbon offsets.

Pests

Pest control is necessary since a solar panel can be inaccessible to many pests. While identifying the problems responsible for the damage can be difficult, there are signs to look out for. For example, look for bird droppings and gnaw marks on electrical wires. You should also install bird netting or spikes around your solar panels. These measures will prevent pests and increase the time between cleanings.

Birds can cause considerable damage to solar panels, as their droppings are acidic and can damage the surface of the panels. If you do not clean them regularly, you could end up spending more money on repair costs. If you notice that you’ve had to hire someone to clean the panels, pigeon proofing could be the solution. To protect your solar panels, private pest control companies must abide by animal welfare laws. Pigeon proofing should also be considered to prevent future nesting.

Warranty protection

The best way to protect yourself from future costs related to the preventative maintenance of your solar panels is to purchase a warranty. Most solar panels come with a warranty that covers the equipment and possibly labor as well. The terms of these warranties vary, but most are designed to fix problems caused during the manufacturing process. For example, a solar panel with a three-year contract will be covered for five years; a panel with a five-year warranty will be replaced for free.

The warranty for solar panels is usually transferable, which means you can sell your home if you wish. It also helps increase the resale value of your home. In addition, you should take precautions against possible theft or vandalism by keeping your panels well maintained and protected. If theft or damage is an issue, homeowners’ insurance should cover it. However, you should ensure your policy does not include a claim limit, as your solar panels are a permanent structure on your property.

William Shipe