Solar power equipment is generally durable and long-lasting. When the system works properly, you can save money on your electricity bill and be on your way to financial and energy independence. However, most solar panel installations face exposure to the elements. Over time, crucial components can fail. After investing thousands in solar power installation, don’t risk losing its benefits by failing to keep your system in good working order. Regular solar power maintenance from a professional technician can address problems before they affect the ability of your solar panels to provide energy and reduce your utility bills. Don’t forget to schedule an inspection of your solar panels in West Palm Beach by PES Solar.
Damage to the Panels
The solar panels are the most visible part of your system, and their large surface area makes them vulnerable to damage from many sources. Inspect your solar panels for damage if any of the following strike your home, then call a professional solar power maintenance technician if you notice anything.
Hail
Though hailstorms are rare, when they do occur, they devastate solar panels by cracking the top glass and damaging the photovoltaic elements underneath. Cracks in the surface allow melting snow, sleet, and rainwater to damage those sensitive cells. Cracks in the top layer also interfere with the panel’s ability to receive light.
Windblown Particles
Dust, dirt, and sand that strike the solar panel array at high speeds reduce the efficiency of photovoltaic cells in two ways. They block light from reaching the panels when accumulating on the surface. They can also leave scratches that interfere with the top layer’s ability to transmit light.
Problems With Wiring
Solar panel arrays depend on wiring to convey power from the photovoltaic cells to a solar battery and the home’s electrical system. Animals, fallen tree branches, and other environmental threats can fray or break wires, rendering the solar panels useless.
Inverter Damage
Solar inverters convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Solar panel arrays need an inverter because photovoltaic cells produce continuous electrical output while household currents are always AC. Even if you carefully positioned your inverter away from moisture, sunlight, and heat, vibration and fluctuations in current can cause the inverter to fail over time.
Solar Battery Failure
Solar batteries should last well over a decade. However, like other batteries, they can overheat or lose their ability to hold a charge.
Protect Your Investment in Solar Energy With PES Solar
If you recently installed a solar panel system or bought a house with solar panels, don’t let maintenance issues take you by surprise. If you own older solar panels, have you checked your system for damage lately? Learn more on how to maintain the health of solar panels from PES Solar. To schedule an appointment for solar power maintenance by a qualified PES Solar technician, call (800) 650-6519 today. We proudly serve the West Palm Beach area, with locations in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. We look forward to answering your questions about solar energy.
