As the world steadily leans towards renewable sources of energy, solar panels have become an increasingly common sight in homes and businesses alike. Not only do they reduce our carbon footprint, but they also provide an opportunity for significant cost savings over time. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to switch to solar power or a business seeking to decrease operational costs, choosing a qualified solar PV installer such as Eagle Electrical is a crucial first step.
However, once your panels are installed, the journey doesn’t end there. To ensure that you continue to reap the benefits of solar power, regular maintenance of your solar panels is essential. This is where we at Eagle Electrical, one of the leading solar PV installers in the UK, step in with our comprehensive maintenance tips.
The first and most fundamental aspect of solar maintenance is regular cleaning. Solar panels are generally low-maintenance, but they aren’t completely maintenance-free. Dust, debris, bird droppings, and other materials can accumulate on the surface over time, causing a significant reduction in efficiency.
Cleaning your solar panels doesn’t require any special equipment. A garden hose and a soft brush can do the job just fine. Remember to avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface of the panels. Also, clean your panels early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent the sun from evaporating the water too quickly, which can leave streaks or spots.
Another crucial aspect of solar maintenance involves monitoring the performance of your solar panels. This will help you identify any potential issues at an early stage.
The output of your solar panels should be consistent on days with similar weather conditions. If you notice a significant drop in power production, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning panel or inverter. Some modern solar panel systems come with online monitoring tools, which makes it easier to track their performance.
If you’re unsure about how to monitor your solar panel performance, contact your solar PV installer. At Eagle Electrical, we offer comprehensive after-sales service, providing our customers with the necessary guidance and support.
Solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, they’re not invincible. Severe storms, hail, or even falling debris can cause physical damage to your solar panels, which can hinder their performance.
Regular inspections can help you identify any physical damage early. Look for cracks, chips, or discolouration on the panels. If you notice any damage, contact your solar PV installer immediately to assess the extent of the damage and recommend necessary repairs.
The solar inverter and battery are two crucial components of your solar power system. The inverter converts the DC power produced by the solar panels into AC power that can be used in your home or business, while the battery stores excess power for use when the panels aren’t producing electricity, such as at night or during cloudy weather.
Like any other electrical equipment, inverters and batteries can experience issues over time. Regular checks can help identify problems early and prevent potential downtime. If you notice any warning lights or error messages on your inverter, or if your battery isn’t holding charge as it should, contact your solar PV installer for assistance.
While there’s a lot you can do to keep your solar panels in top condition, some tasks are best left to the professionals. For instance, solar panels that are installed on high or steep roofs can be risky to clean and inspect without the proper safety equipment.
Professional maintenance services from a reputable solar PV installer like Eagle Electrical can give you peace of mind knowing that your solar panels are in capable hands. Our team of experienced technicians will conduct thorough inspections, perform necessary repairs, and ensure that your system is running at its optimal capacity.
Just as you would service your car to keep it running smoothly, regular servicing of your solar system can prolong its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. This process involves a thorough check of the solar panels, mounting hardware, inverter, battery, and other components of the system.
At Eagle Electrical, we offer regular servicing and health checks as part of our after-sales services. Our skilled team will not only inspect your solar system for any potential issues but will also provide you with a detailed report on the system’s performance and recommendations for any necessary improvements.
The mounting system, though often overlooked, plays a crucial role in the overall health of your solar installation. It supports the weight of the panels and ensures they are correctly angled towards the sun. Over time, mounting hardware can loosen, rust, or otherwise degrade, which can impact the stability of your panels.
It’s advisable to include the mounting system in your regular inspections. If you spot any signs of wear or damage, contact your solar PV installer immediately.
Investing in solar energy is a wise decision, both environmentally and financially. However, to fully reap the benefits of this renewable energy source, regular maintenance of your solar system is paramount. By following these tips and enlisting the services of a reliable solar PV installer like Eagle Electrical, you can ensure that your solar panels remain in top condition for many years to come.
At Eagle Electrical, we take pride in our comprehensive solar services. From installation to maintenance, we are dedicated to helping our customers harness the power of the sun in the most effective and efficient way possible. Get in touch with us today for more information about our services or to schedule a maintenance appointment.
Remember, when it comes to solar maintenance, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular upkeep not only helps to maintain the efficiency of your solar system but also prevents minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. Stay ahead with Eagle Electrical, your partner in sustainable and reliable solar solutions.