7 Residential Solar Maintenance Errors and How to Avoid Them
Do you have solar panels in your home? If yes, then there’s one thing you don’t want to forget as you maintain your home, to cover your panels!
Your solar panels are one of the best tools for conserving energy. But you need to step in to help them if you want to see the best results.
You’ve probably heard that you should regularly maintain your residential solar panels. But did you know that you could be doing it incorrectly?
If you want to see your solar panels working at their best, there are a few residential solar maintenance errors you want to avoid. Keep reading to learn what to do to keep your home clean and your panels running well.
1. Not Regularly Inspect, Clean, and Maintain
Inspecting and maintaining solar panels and power storage systems is essential to residential solar maintenance. Errors can lead to decreased efficiency. It reduces value and generates less power.
To ensure your residential solar system is running as possible, it is essential to avoid errors and take precautionary steps during maintenance.
One of the most common errors is failing to check for and clean dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris from the panel’s surface. Remove debris once a month, as it hinders power generation.
2. Doesn’t Ensure All Components Are Properly Connected
First, shut off the main’s power by dialing the correct switch. Second, check all electrical connections between components. Third, ensure any connections are bolted down as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
Then, secure it on the module side to ensure a good connection. Finally, inspect the area around all exterior components and trim away any accumulated debris in the area.
This will ensure a direct and secure connection between the various components. Taking these steps will help avoid any serious electrical or mechanical maintenance errors. It reduces unnecessary callbacks for service or repair.
3. Late to Address Corrosion or Rust
A combination of environmental factors causes rust and corrosion, such as exposure to rain, heat, and other elements.
To avoid them, it is crucial to address corrosion or rust as a priority. Cleaning solar panels should be done soon, or rust as a priority. This is especially true if the solar panel housing has been exposed to salty air or wet conditions.
Inspect the structure and mounting rails monthly for any visible signs of rust or corrosion. If found, immediately remove any rust or rot and apply rust-inhibiting products.
Rust and corrosion can damage the solar panel. It shortens the system’s life span and decreases electricity generation.
4. Using Old and Low-Quality Components
Replace components with new, high-quality parts to ensure safety and optimal performance.
The components of a solar system are highly sensitive and need to be handled with care. It is important to always use new, high-quality parts when replacing any components. So use authentic solar components that are compatible with the existing system.
Additionally, only allow qualified and experienced technicians to make any replacements. This is to guarantee that all safety protocols are upheld.
If a technician is uncertain, they should always err on the safe side. Then ask questions or research the topic before executing anything.
5. Batteries Are Replaced With Old Ones
One of the most common errors when replacing a solar battery is using an old battery instead of a quality new one.
Never use old batteries when replacing new solar batteries. This may not have the capacity or quality of a new battery. This can lead to the solar system not having enough power and a potential loss of efficiency.
To avoid this mistake, homeowners should always invest in new, quality batteries. They will surely last plenty of years and are compatible with their solar system.
Furthermore, they should always ensure to check the technical specifications and usage conditions when selecting a suitable battery for their solar panel. Then ask their local professional for any help necessary when making such an important and costly decision.
6. The Inverter Has Never Been Calibrated
Without calibration, this essential component of home solar energy systems can become non-functional and/or inaccurate. To avoid this, calibrate inverters according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
This may involve taking readings and comparing data. This is to ensure the device is producing the most efficient output.
Additionally, homeowners should regularly inspect and check their solar array for any visual signs of damage. Such as cracked or broken panels.
Having the inverter professionally calibrated is also recommended. This is to keep the system running smoothly and prevent further damage.
7. Hiring an Unqualified Residential Solar Technician
Hiring an unqualified residential solar technician can lead to solar maintenance errors. It can end up costing you more money and resources than you would have saved by hiring a cheaper alternative. If you hired an unqualified technician, they may not have the necessary knowledge and skill to properly inspect and maintain the system.
To avoid this error, you should always hire a certified and fully qualified technician. Someone with the experience necessary to install, manage, and maintain a solar system.
Furthermore, you should request references and follow up on them before you decide to hire a technician. Make sure to ask this great company what their qualifications and experience are. By hiring an experienced and qualified technician, you can ensure that the system is well-maintained and repairs are correctly done.
Avoid These Residential Solar Maintenance Errors
Maintenance is a crucial part of maximizing energy efficiency and safety. Following the correct steps, inspecting regularly, and having an expert look at it from time to time will help prevent any residential solar maintenance errors.
If you need help maintaining your solar panels, contact an experienced professional now for an effortless and reliable experience.
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