If you have solar panels installed in your residence, give yourself a pat on the back for having wisely invested in a clean energy source. You’re not only helping the environment but will also be saving on your power bills for years to come.
It’s also a good thing that it takes only a little effort to protect your investment because solar panels are generally low-maintenance.
Since most solar panels are made out of tempered glass and anodised aluminium and have no moving parts, you can reasonably expect your solar panel system to hold up to harsh weather and other environmental conditions. However, to maximise energy output, solar panel maintenance is still something you need to stay on top of.
Solar panel cleaning
No matter the weather conditions in your area, remember that solar systems are built to withstand tough weather conditions, whether it’s droughts, heavy rains, heat waves, or even the occasional snow.
There are different methods you can try to get rid of dirt or any build-up from birds, trees, or dust in the surroundings:
- Use a leaf blower to blow away dirt.
- Clean your solar panels with a broom if you have a flat roof.
- If you have a pitched roof, you can use a squeegee attached to an extension rod to clean your solar panels without climbing up.
For snow, you can leave it for the sun to melt the next day without the need to clean the panels. However, you might need to remove snow from your solar panels for heavy winter weather using pure, clean lukewarm water and wiping them down. Also, clean your panels every quarter to ensure maximum efficiency.
What to avoid: Don’t use rock salt, hot water, car wax, or any chemical cleaning agents that can damage the roof, panels, and electrical components.
If you don’t have time to clean or if you have a pitched roof, you can always call in a professional cleaning crew to do the job for you.
Battery checks
To check for battery corrosion, inspect the battery compartment and be on the lookout for any gunk build-up or white powder around the battery terminals. If you notice anything (whether it’s dirty or faulty batteries), make sure to call a licensed technician to take care of the problem. If you plan to do the cleaning yourself, wear protective gear, use the recommended cleaning tools, and follow safety guidelines. Battery checks need only be done two to three times a year.
However, if you have new solar panels with a modern battery system or gel batteries, then there’s no cleaning required.
Solar systems, like solar panels installed in Gold Coast, are built to last extreme weather conditions, and can serve you for many years — anywhere from 25 to 30 years! They only require a little maintenance to keep performing in top condition.
If you need help with your solar system maintenance or want a new one installed, please get in touch with Arise Solar on 1300 274 737
