What are the maintenance requirements for a solar power system?

One of the biggest advantages of a solar power system is that it requires very little ongoing maintenance. As long as good quality & correctly rated components are used and the system is configured & optimized during installation routine intervention is only required to keep the solar panels clean to ensure appropriate energy generation. Please see below more detailed guidelines to ensure optimum performance of key system components:

Solar panel maintenance requirements

Solar panels are extremely durable (see more information on their warranties here) and are designed for long-term operation in excess of 25 yrs. They have no moving parts and are secured with toughened glass on the top side that enables them to withstand rough weather or mechanical impact (e.g. from hail etc.). As longs as the panels have been installed correctly the only effort required is in keeping the top surface of the panel clean to ensure maximum energy generation. Below are a few guidelines for cleaning solar panels:

• To remove a layer of dust or dirt, simply wash the surface of the solar panel with water. In case of thick dirt or bird droppings, which are harder to remove, wash the panel with cold water and rub the surface with sponge or a soft rag.

Do not use a metal brush or detergent to clean the solar panel surface

• Periodic visual inspection should be done to check for any cracks, delamination, fogged glazing or discoloration. In case you observe any of this you should report it to the solar company that did your installation and monitor if there is impact on the solar panel output over a period of time
• The condition of the structures on which the solar panels are mounted should be inspected periodically. The frame and the panels should be firmly secured and the panel mounting bolts should be checked for any rust. The junction boxes below the solar panels should also be checked to ensure the wires are not chewed by insects or rodents.

Solar inverter maintenance requirements

Solar inverters require very little maintenance. Periodic checks should be done to ensure

• The inverter is kept clean and free from any dust. Dust can be wiped off with a dry cloth when required.
• The unit is not infested with vermin
• The inverter is functioning correctly by observing the different LED indicators are working and the wires leading to & from the inverters are not loose

Solar batteries maintenance requirements

Proper upkeep & condition monitoring of the batteries is essential to maintain the solar system performance and prolonging the useful life of the batteries.

Periodic inspection & cleaning

Checking the electrolyte level

Checking Battery Voltage

Wiring & Connections maintenance requirements

Correctly installed switchboards and wiring should not require any maintenance.

• Check for any cracks, breaks, or deterioration of insulation/conduits
• Inspect connections for any corrosion and/or burning
• Switches should not spark when turned on or off
• Inspect panel boxes to ensure they are not infested with rodents/insects

To learn more about the warranties of solar power systems, click here