Solar panels have a lifespan of about 25 to 30 years, which means you’ll be earning back your initial investment and then some. However, they also need some maintenance to keep them working at their best.
If you recently had solar panels installed or you are thinking about investing in solar for your home or business, then there are some general maintenance tips to consider.
Learn about why solar panel maintenance is important and how to keep them running at the highest efficiency in the article below.
Why is Solar Panel Maintenance Important?
While solar panel maintenance isn’t a lot of work, it’s still an essential part of keeping your system in top condition. By cleaning your panels regularly you will be able to:
- Maximize the energy production and efficiency of your system by keeping your panels clean from any dirt or debris that can block the sunlight.
- Extend the lifespan and durability of your system by inspecting your panels regularly and fixing any issues promptly.
- Help you comply with the warranty and insurance requirements of your system by following the best practices for solar panel maintenance.
How Often Should You Maintain Your Solar Panels?
The frequency of solar panel maintenance depends on several factors, such as the type and location of your system, the amount of dust and pollution in your area, the weather conditions and seasons, and the monitoring tools you have. Generally speaking, you should perform solar panel cleaning between two and four times per year. However, this may vary depending on your specific situation.
Certain circumstances may require more cleaning and inspecting such as if a snowstorm hits your neighborhood or if high winds blow debris onto your panels.
How Do You Maintain Your Solar Panels?
With basic solar panel cleaning equipment, you can usually clean your solar panels on your own. However, this should only be done if you have experience going on your roof (if the panels are on your roof), otherwise, you can hire a solar panel cleaning service.
Cleaning Your Solar Panels
- Turn off your system and disconnect it from the grid before cleaning your panels.
- Use a hose with lukewarm water to spray down your panels gently. Do not use high-pressure or hot water as they can damage the panels.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap or detergent to wipe off any stubborn dirt or stains. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they can scratch or corrode the panels.
- Rinse off any soap residue with clean water and dry off any excess water with a squeegee or towel.
- Do not clean your panels on a sunny day as the water can evaporate quickly and leave smudges or streaks. Choose a cloudy day or early morning or evening when the panels are cool.
- If you are cleaning your panels on a roof or ladder, use proper safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, harnesses, ropes, etc. Do not lean over the edge or walk on the panels as they can be slippery or fragile.
- If you are not comfortable or confident with cleaning your panels yourself, hire a professional service provider who has experience and expertise in solar panel maintenance.
Inspecting Your Solar Panels
- Inspect your panels visually for any cracks, chips, discoloration, or other signs of damage.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors for any loose connections, corrosion, fraying, or exposed wires.
- Inspect the mounting structure for any rust, bending, sagging, or misalignment.
- Inspect the inverter, batteries, and other components for any malfunction, overheating, or abnormal noise.
- Keep a record of your inspection results and report any issues to your warranty or insurance provider if needed.
If you find any issues with your solar panels, contact Rising Sun Solar Solutions right away for a repair or replacement. You can also have an expert from Rising Sun clean and inspect your solar panels for you.
What Factors to Consider in Maryland’s Climate?
Maryland has a diverse climate that ranges from humid subtropical in the east to continental in the west. The average temperatures vary from 25°F in January to 87°F in July. The average annual precipitation is about 41 inches (104 cm), with most of it falling as rain. However, Maryland also experiences snowfall, especially in the western mountains.
These climatic conditions can affect the performance and maintenance of your solar panels in different ways. Here are some factors to consider:
Optimizing for Maryland Sunlight
There are about 200 sunny days per year in Maryland, which means that your panels can produce enough electricity to meet your energy needs and even sell some back to the grid or store it in a battery backup. However, you may also experience cloudy days or seasons when the sunlight is less intense or consistent. To optimize your energy production, you should install your panels at an optimal angle and orientation that maximizes their exposure to the sun throughout the year. You should also keep them clean from any dust or debris that can reduce their efficiency.
Beating the Heat
The mid-east coast has high temperatures and humidity in summer, which can lower the efficiency of your panels as they generate more heat than electricity. To prevent overheating and degradation of your panels, you should ensure adequate ventilation and cooling of your system. You should also choose high-quality panels from Rising Sun Solar Solutions that have a low-temperature coefficient, which measures how much the power output decreases as the temperature increases.
Dealing With Snow
The state can experience snowfall and ice accumulation in winter, which can block some of the sunlight from reaching your panels and reduce their power output. Snow and ice can also cause damage to your panels if they are too heavy or hard. To prevent snow and ice buildup on your panels, you have them installed at a steep angle that allows them to shed off any precipitation. You should also clear off any snow or ice manually with a soft brush or spray with lukewarm water. Do not use hot water or metal tools as they can crack or scratch your panels.
Solar Panel Repair
Solar panel maintenance cost is usually inexpensive, but what happens if you find a problem? You may be in need of a solar panel repair if your panels get damaged either from wear and tear or natural disasters.
Luckily, at Rising Sun Solar Solutions, our promise is our satisfaction guarantee. Our manufacturers provide a 25-year warranty for the solar unit to cover any defects. Plus, we offer a 10-year installation warranty that can help with repair work.
Solar Panel Maintenance Brings You More Energy
Solar panel maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your system. By following the tips above, you can keep your panels clean and functional in Maryland’s climate. However, if you have any questions or concerns about your system, you can always contact us to come inspect your solar panels for you.
You can also schedule bi-yearly maintenance visits, add additional solar units, or get more energy-saving services like EV charging stations or battery backups to your property or business. Contact us today for all your solar needs and questions.