If you are thinking about getting solar panels installed, or already live in a home powered by solar energy, it’s important to think about maintaining your solar system. This will help ensure that your system operates efficiently and safely, allowing you to enjoy the maximum cost savings.
The use of solar panels as a long-term, sustainable, and economical energy solution for homes has gained popularity in Australia. With 21 percent of Australian households already utilising rooftop solar PV, it is clear that more people are recognizing the benefits of harnessing the power of the sun. According to an industry report, this trend is projected to continue, with the Solar Power market in Australia expected to experience a significant growth rate of 19.56% during the forecast period from 2020 to 2025.
If you’re thinking about getting solar panels installed or already live in a solar-powered home, it’s important to think about maintaining your solar system to make sure it’s working efficiently and safely. This will help you save money on energy costs. In this blog, we’ll provide answers to common questions about maximising the benefits of your solar system, building on our previous discussions about solar power facts and myths.
Do Solar Panels Require Regular Maintenance?
Once solar panels are properly installed, they generally do not need frequent maintenance to keep generating power and operating safely. It is advisable to conduct a maintenance check on the solar system every 12 to 18 months to confirm its smooth operation, which is usually sufficient to ensure that the panels continue functioning effectively for their 25 to 30 year lifespan.
During a maintenance inspection, a qualified electrician will clean the panels, look for any blockages, test all connections and switches, and overall ensure that your solar system is functioning at its best. It’s important to remember that sometimes solar panels can malfunction without showing any immediate signs of trouble, which could result in an unpleasant surprise when you receive your power bill.
What Are Some Potential Maintenance and Safety Issues to Be Aware Of?
In carrying out maintenance on solar systems, we frequently encounter several key issues that impact both the efficiency and safety of the panels:
- Faulty solar metre
- Solar panel positioning (too much shade, or in an awkward position)
- Dirt, dust & debris
- Fractures in solar panels
- Vermin damage from possums, birds or rats.
Excessive shading or leaf accumulation can lower the performance of solar panels. Ensuring a professional instals your solar system from the beginning can guarantee correct panel placement and identify potential shading issues. Regular trimming of trees and removal of obstructions can enhance sunlight exposure to the panels.
Wildlife such as birds, possums, and rats may nest under the solar panels, damaging wires and leaving debris. Additionally, solar panels can accumulate debris over time, impairing their capacity to capture sunlight. Weather events, like storms, can exacerbate this issue by depositing more leaves and dirt on the panels, thereby reducing their efficiency.
Furthermore, panels may undergo corrosion and insulation wear over time, leading to operational faults.
Such issues are often the result of substandard installation, a surprisingly frequent issue in Australia. A national audit revealed that between 21 and 26 percent of rooftop solar installations inspected since 2011 suffered from improper wiring and insecurely mounted panels.
Therefore, if you have concerns about the quality of your solar panel installation or are moving into a home with an existing solar system, scheduling a safety inspection is advisable.
Considering Booking an Inspection for Solar System Maintenance?
When booking solar system service maintenance, reaching out to a specialist is crucial to guarantee you’re enhancing your savings from solar energy and maintaining a secure electrical setting.
At Streamline Energy, our electricians are skilled in the design, installation, and upkeep of solar photovoltaic systems. They conduct thorough inspections and explore methods to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your solar PV system.
Contact us today to explore how we can support you with your solar system maintenance needs.