Transition to solar power panels is a turning point in the energy landscape. Concerning its massive global acceptance, Bloomberg NEF projects global solar installations to grow substantially in 2019. This will be a major blow to the providers of non-renewable energy.
When it comes to energy resources, either renewable or non-renewable, to uplift the financial situation of the nations. However, they tag along with a bunch of pros and cons. There are problems like economic restraints, negative impact on climate, time consumption and constant labor.
In addition, solar power panels stand apart from all other resources. It leaves a negligible impact on the environment. The systems may ask for heavy initial investment but demand lesser charges in the future.
For these and various other reasons, the human race has been showing a great interest in exploring solar power to fulfill their needs. We are living in a time where you can install solar panels of varying sizes at your homes and workplaces. The system is incredibly durable. It asks for limited maintenance over it’s productive lifetime.
Solar power panels guarantee energy savings for more than 25 years.
Most manufacturers state that their systems will produce at least 80% of the rated power after two decades of usage.
If you are an advocate of solar energy and wish to make sure that your system works efficiently, follow these tips:
1. Go for warranties
Providers of solar power systems offer a range of warranties for prolonged customer support. They ensure coverage in unlikely events like hail or fallen tree branches.
Another type offered is the power output warranty. It guarantees that the panel performance does not fall below a certain level in a given period. For instance, a manufacturer may give their written word that the peak power output will not go beneath 85% in 25 years.
Some may include an additional warranty for their clients. It can be a promise of higher output level within a short timeframe. Like they might guarantee that the system will provide 90% of initial power output for the first 12 years.
Experts recommend that you examine all angles of the deal before your final decision. Check all the warranties they offer. Panels typically come with a design warranty. This aims to protect you against defective parts for a given period of the operation.
2. Clean the panels
A few times every year, you should inspect the panels for any debris or dirt that may collect on them. Remember that the system needs sun to work. The more the sunlight hits the panel, the more power it will produce.
The positioning of panels is towards the sun. Unfortunately, thisangle allows for pollen, dirt, leaves and bird droppings to collect over the top. And even a small amount of grime decelerates the energy production.
A general cleaning procedure involves using the garden hose for washing the surface of the system. Pick a time during early morning or in the evening. This is because spraying cold water onto the hot panels may result in cracks.
You can also purchase the automated cleaners that work like sprinklers. It is a good choice if you live in a dusty location.
3. Clean and secure the battery
A part of solar maintenance is to keep the battery terminals clean. Check them for corrosion regularly. You can prevent corrosion by applying petroleum jelly or commercial sealant inside the terminals.
Experts also advise that you keep your batteries in a moderate environment. It should have consistent temperatures. Keep in mind that batteries tend to lose storage capacity at low temperatures. And at high temps, they start to deteriorate.
Hence, the ideal placement of your battery bank has to be between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Charge the batteries
An integral part of solar power maintenance is to charge the batteries fully every month. This will equalize all batteries in your bank. Plus, the process will stop weaker batteries from getting worse.
To be on the safe side, you can check the batteries with an amp-hour meter.
5. Seek help from professionals
Most solar companies provide professional services to their clients even after the installation. It is a part of the warranty, or they charge you for it.
From cleaning to fixing the dysfunctional panels, you can seek their help to ensure optimal operation of the panels. Many service providers are using solar project management software.It helps them improve their efficiency and achieve a competitive edge in the industry.
Scrutinize their services and opt for a comprehensive maintenance package. Your choice is going to influence your system to generate clean, affordable and reliable energy in the future.
6. Monitor the seals
A primary concern for all solar power users is to keep their systems sealed and secure. It is possible that the exterior elements may cause the seal to wear out. This results in leakage and inefficiency.
During your periodic of monitoring the system, pay careful attention to this aspect. You can re-seal the waterproof seals on panels with flexible silicone.
7. System analysis
For your system to work in order, it is essential to evaluate its performance. You can use your laptop or any other device to obtain solar readings.
This will help you to point out the times when electricity generation is at its peak. You can then decide when it would be suitable to use a washing machine or other utilities.
Unlike other energy systems, solar power asks for very little maintenance. With a few precautions and regular inspection, you can retain the production of your system at peak levels. Besides, these steps will also increase the overall lifespan of the system.
Therefore, follow the aforementioned expert recommendations and let your solar power system operate without flaws.
Author Bio:
About Michelle Joe: Michelle Joe is a blogger by choice. She loves to discover the world around her. She likes to share her discoveries, experiences, and express herself through her blogs. You can find her on twitter: @michellejoe524
