Understanding solar panel maintenance and care are important to keep your system in top shape. You can do a few things to ensure that it’s working properly, but you also need to be aware of any warning signs that your solar system needs a little TLC.

Cleaning

Homeowners may enjoy the benefits of residential solar electricity you own a solar panel system, it may need a good cleaning. A good cleaning will ensure you get a better ROI, and it can help fix various problems. It also allows more light to reach the cells in your panels, which can improve their efficiency. One way to clean your panels is with a hose. You can use a garden hose or a telescopic hose wand to spray water accurately. Then, using a soft brush, scrub the dirt off of your panels. Another way to clean your solar panels is to use a special coating solution. This will reduce the amount of dust on the panels. However, you should be careful with this type of cleaning. Do not apply too much pressure, as this can cause the panels to break. Also, you should not use an abrasive cleaner, which can scratch your panel. Instead, opt for a high-quality soft brush and soft soap.

You may also want to look into a monitoring system to check on the performance of your solar panels. Some companies have developed advanced technology to alert you of faults.

Avoiding Abrasive Cleaners

If you are cleaning your solar panels, avoid using abrasive cleaners. This will keep your panels from scratch. Also, harsh chemicals may be damaging and void your warranty. You will need to use water and soft clothes to clean your solar panels. The right cleaning materials will prevent scratches while providing an effective and efficient clean. It is essential to use a high-quality soft brush. A brush will remove dirt and dust that a squeegee can’t reach. You can also use a lint-free cloth to wipe off any streaks. Water is the most effective solar panel cleaning product. The best type of water to use is distilled or de-ionized. Hard water will leave mineral deposits on your panels.

Using a squeegee is another excellent way to clean your solar panels. Besides removing excess water, a squeegee will leave your panels dry. Lastly, when rinsing your solar panels, use a squeegee with an extension handle. The extra length will let you clean off the sides of your panels without leaning too heavily. Use warm water, but don’t let it get too hot. Too much heat can cause the soap to evaporate faster than it should.

Avoiding Hard Water

Hard water is one of the main factors that can damage your solar panels. The minerals contained in hard water will deteriorate the panels’ performance over time. In addition, hard water can leave white residue on the panels, which decreases their efficiency. To avoid this, it is best to use de-ionized water. Using distilled water is also a good option. Another factor to consider when cleaning your panels is the weather conditions. If you live in a rainy or dusty area, you may need to clean your panels more frequently. It is important to check with your panel manufacturer before cleaning them. A good rule of thumb is to wash your panels in the morning before the sun is high. This will prevent microcracking. It is also recommended to use a soft brush to remove dirt and grime from your solar panels. However, you should avoid using abrasive sponges or powders. These materials could scratch the panels and void your warranty.

Signs Your Solar System May Need Maintenance.

If your solar system shows signs of problems, you may need to consider a solar maintenance service. Maintaining your solar system will help ensure its safety and effectiveness. Having a professional take a look at your system can save you from unnecessary expenses. Some common warning signs include a decrease in energy output. The amount of electricity your solar system produces can vary depending on the weather and time of year. When your solar system is less efficient, you may notice a spike in your electric bill.

You can use your utility company’s report to see how much electricity your solar panels generate each month. If your energy output is dropping, you may need to have your panels cleaned or replaced. A clean solar panel will allow you to boost the amount of energy your solar system is producing. Other signs that your solar system needs to be serviced include the appearance of bird waste or soot on your panels. This debris can cause the panels to work less efficiently and reduce the energy they produce. Loose wires are a major fire hazard and can make your system less effective. In addition, the wires may need to be checked for proper connections by a technician.