How Do You Extend the Life of Your Panels to Increase Solar ROI?
INVESTED IN SOLAR? HOW DO YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR INVESTMENT?
For homeowners seeking to cut down on energy costs and minimize their environmental impact, solar panels represent a substantial investment. However, just like any other investment, it’s crucial to provide adequate maintenance for solar panels to ensure their longevity and your maximum return on investment.
We’ve put together our top tips for Perth customers wanting to get the most life out of their panels and thereby maximising the return on investment on their solar powered system. Read on to make getting solar panels really worth it.
Understanding Your Solar Panels
Before diving into maintenance tips, it is essential to understand your solar panels’ components and how they function. Solar panels are made up of solar cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. These cells are typically made of silicon, and they are connected with wiring and a supporting structure.
Our Top Tips To Maximising The Life of Your Solar
Getting the most out of your solar panels offers a range of advantages that truly justify the investment. Among these, the standout benefit is the boost in cost savings. By properly maintaining and caring for your solar panels, they can generate electricity for more than 25 years, resulting in lower energy bills and substantial long-term savings. Here are our top tips to maximising the life of your solar panels.
Keep Panels Clean
Solar panels work best when they are exposed to direct sunlight. To ensure maximum sunlight exposure, it is crucial to keep them clean. Dirt, debris, and bird droppings can block sunlight and reduce your solar panel’s performance. Cleaning your panels once a month is recommended to remove any build-up.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections of your solar panels are necessary to identify any damage or issues. Inspect your panels visually and look for any cracks or damage to the cells or supporting structure. Ensure that all connections and wiring are secure and not loose.
Trim Nearby Trees
Trees and other vegetation can obstruct sunlight from reaching your panels. It is essential to trim any trees or plants that may be blocking your panels’ sunlight. Regular trimming can ensure that your panels receive maximum exposure to sunlight.
Avoid Shading
Shading can drastically affect your solar panels’ performance, even if it is just a small section. Shading can come from nearby trees, buildings, or any other structure. If possible, install your panels in an area with maximum sunlight exposure and avoid shading.
Monitor Energy Output
To keep a close eye on the performance of your solar panels, you can utilize an online monitoring system or carefully track your energy bills. By doing so, you can easily identify any substantial decrease in energy output, which may indicate the need for a thorough inspection of your panels to detect and address any potential damage or issues that could be affecting their efficiency.
Regular monitoring and prompt action ensure your solar investment continues to deliver optimal results for years to come.
Proper Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to extend the life of your solar panels and ensure they function effectively for years to come.
Hire a Professional
Hiring a professional to inspect and maintain your solar panels is recommended. They have the necessary tools and expertise to identify any issues and perform any necessary repairs. A professional can also provide guidance on the best practices for maintaining your solar panels.
Check the Inverter
The inverter is a crucial component of your solar panel system. It converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into usable AC electricity. Regularly checking your inverter for any issues or error messages can help you identify any problems early on so you can get back to saving money.
Protect from Animals
Animals, such as birds and squirrels, can cause damage to your solar panels. They may chew through wiring or scratch the surface of the cells, reducing their effectiveness. Installing mesh or wire guards around your panels can protect them from animal damage, just make sure not to create any additional shading.
Keep Panels Cool
Solar panels can heat up in the sun, which can reduce their performance. Keeping your panels cool can help maintain their effectiveness. This can be done by installing them in a shaded area or by using cooling fans.
Shelter Panels During Extreme Temperatures
Big storms coming into the area? Stay safe, however, if you can try to cover up your panels using safely secured tarps in order to shelter your solar power system from any physical damage particularly caused by hail.
Avoid Pressure Washing
Pressure washing your solar panels may seem like a good way to clean them, but it can cause damage. The high pressure can crack the cells or damage the wiring, reducing their effectiveness. Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild soap solution to clean your panels instead.
How Much Does It Cost To Maintain Solar Panels in Perth?
Based on a 5kW system you can expect to pay approximately $150 – $400 for your annual inspection and maintenance. The final cost will depend on the number of panels as well as the placement across your roof.
What Will Your Inspector Look For?
Your solar inspector will look for a number of faults and visible damage including:
- Chewed up cables
- Water pooling or damage in components
- Defective components or any signs of malfunction
- Natural cable deterioration over time
- Corrosion of frames
- Potential installation mistakes
Wrapping Up
Investing in solar panels offers numerous advantages, such as decreased energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint, making it a worthwhile endeavor. However, it’s essential to prioritize the maintenance of your panels to maximize their value and performance.
Regular care, including cleaning and inspection, ensures optimal efficiency and longevity, allowing you to reap the full benefits of your solar investment. Don’t miss out on the potential savings and environmental impact—take action today to maintain and protect your solar panels for years of sustainable energy generation.