Solar power system maintenance, how often do you take into consideration? Solar panels generally have a 25-year lifetime, and with improvements in photovoltaic (PV) technology and manufacturing, solar panels will only degrade by 0.2% a year. So, these solar panels will operate at 95% of their original efficiency.Â
To maintain high efficiency throughout the system’s lifetime and reduce wear and tear of these solar panels, one must actively perform basic maintenance tasks, even if there is minimal degradation.
It is worth noting that your system can malfunction without clearly indicating where the issue is. A licensed engineer has to carry out maintenance of your system.Â
What are the solar power system maintenance issues to be aware of?
These are the main issues that affect the performance of the solar system.Â
- Dirt, Dust, and Debris. Â
- Faulty inverter.Â
- Solar panel positioning.Â
- Checking for damage caused by extreme weather conditions.Â
- Loose connections.Â
- Cell balancing.Â
Dirt, dust, and debris.Â
Anything that covers the panels will reduce their efficiency. Accumulating dirt and dust is a bigger problem in systems with flat-lying panels than in those oriented at an angle. Still, in both cases, owners should be primarily concerned with keeping the panels clean. Debris, such as bird dropping, should be wiped off regularly so as to ensure maximum efficiency of the panels.Â
Faulty inverter.Â
Inverters have a 5-10-year lifetime, depending on the brand. They require regular maintenance to ensure maximum efficiency. Solar inverters are subjected to overheating and accumulation of dirt.
Inverters have many components that are temperature sensitive. We advise installing them in well-ventilated, low-humidity rooms and away from direct sunlight.Â
All inverter sections and the area around them must be cleaned so as to avoid dust buildup. This ensures that the inverter “breathes.”Â
Always fix any issues with the solar inverter while they are still minor. because, they may cause more serious issues, shortening the device’s lifespan and the system’s overall efficiency.
Solar panel positioning.
Solar panels should be kept in a position so as to absorb the sun’s rays efficiently. A professional installing them from the outset should ensure the panels have been placed correctly and identify areas prone to leaf coverage.Â
Monitoring tree and shrub growth around your panels is extremely important. because if a tree, casts a shadow over the cells in your solar panel, that would mean your solar panel will produce less of the energy it initially produced.Â
Checking for damage caused by extreme weather conditions.Â
The sturdiness of the solar panel structure is also checked during maintenance. Because extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall, can cause the structure to become loose.Â
Loose connections.Â
The engineer inspects the cable connection to see if any has come apart or needs replacing. Because a loose connection can make the system inefficient and unreliable.Â
Battery bank maintenance.Â
Batteries have a 5-8-year lifespan. This can significantly shorten without proper and regular maintenance.
Flooded batteries require refilling, and their specific gravity is monitored. Distilled water is used for refilling.Â
Proper ventilation ensures that the battery bank is at optimal performance and so lowers the risk of overheating.Â
The engineer has to ensure that no cell is overcharging or undercharging. The engineer needs to rotate the batteries within a large bank periodically. Batteries in the middle may not receive as good of charge as the batteries on the outside. This rotation balances out this problem.Â
Prone to dust and debris, batteries should be wiped down, and a blower should be used to remove any remnants of dirt or dust.
Ready to conduct solar power system maintenance?
We highly recommend maintenance quarterly; so as to ensure the optimum performance of your system. Even the best-built machines need proper preventive maintenance to remain productive and reach maximum working life.Â
Would you like a FREE assessment for your solar needs? Contact us at info@plexus-emergy.co.ke or sales2@plexus-energy.co.ke.Â
