Some people believe that maintaining solar panels is a difficult and expensive task. Even while this can happen occasionally, there are several problems that the homeowner can take care of on their own. A professional’s assistance is obviously necessary in some circumstances, but how can you recognize when that time has come? We’ll discuss some of the most solar panel problems and solutions in this blog.
An Accumulation of Unknown Substances
Condensation, dust, and other foreign substances are significant causes of damage to solar panels. Dust, dirt, pollen, and other debris will collect on your panels over time, reducing their efficiency in absorbing sunlight. This building can have particularly disastrous consequences in regions prone to wind and dust storms. Living in such a location makes you more likely to encounter this issue.
A soft, non-abrasive cleanser is the best option when cleaning solar panels, which may be done in a few different ways. To avoid breaking the solar cells, use a mild cleaner. Most cleaning jobs can be done with just some warm water and a dab of mild soap. If the filth on your panels is very stubborn, you may gently scrape it off with a soft-bristled brush. Please don’t put too much force on them since that might also break the solar cells. Any leftover soap residue or debris may be easily washed away with a hose or low-pressure sprayer.
It is crucial to keep an eye out for new accumulations on your solar panels after you’ve cleaned them. By monitoring it often, you can spot the issue before it gets out of hand and reduces the frequency of your deep cleanings.
Termite and Pest Problems
Insect infestation is another typical solar panel concern, especially in rural locations. Birds, rodents, and other small animals can nest on or near solar panels, blocking sunlight. These bugs can eat through electrical wires, causing more damage.
If your solar panels are contaminated, act quickly. First, identify the pest. This is tough, although there are several tell-tale indications. Birds are likely to blame if you observe bird droppings on your solar panels. Rodents are likely to blame for gnawed cables. After identifying the pest, you may eliminate it. Putting bird netting or spikes around your solar panels may deter birds. Traps and baits may catch rats. For insects, use a solar-panel insecticide.
Installing pest shields on your solar panels will prevent rodents and other pests from damaging them. These shields will protect pests from damaging your solar panels. Pest guards include galvanized steel meshes, PVC-coated wires, and plastic strips. One of these solutions should work for your solar panel system.
Micro-Cracks
Micro-cracks are small cracks in your solar panel’s cells. These unseen particles might affect your solar panel’s functionality. Manufacturing faults, physical damage, or thermal stress can generate microcracks.
Even if you’re diligent, solar panels will be damaged. Scratches and tiny cracks won’t significantly affect your solar panels’ effectiveness. If the damage is severe enough, it can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Micro-cracks are challenging to repair. Most occurrences need replacing the solar panel. This may be expensive and time-consuming, so try to prevent micro-cracks. Handle solar panels cautiously and control excessive temperatures.
If your solar panels are damaged, have a professional inspect them. They’ll analyse the damage and recommend the next steps. Check your solar panel warranty to verify whether the damage is covered.
Loose Wiring
Loose wiring can reduce solar panel efficiency. Solar panel cables can become loose or detached over time. This might happen owing to physical damage or wind-related vibrations. Loose solar panel wiring must be addressed immediately. Loose wiring can cause solar panels to malfunction or catch fire. Even a tiny wiring error might have serious consequences, so be cautious.
You can repair the problem yourself if you’re confident and have experience. Incorrectly managed solar panels can be harmful. In most circumstances, loose wiring may be fixed by a solar panel repair firm. They employ meters and other instruments to address the problem.
Hot Spots
Hot areas can reduce solar panel efficiency. Hot spots are locations where solar cells produce too much heat. Shaded solar panels can’t disperse heat correctly, causing thermal runaway.
If your solar panel starts to operate poorly, you’ll know it has a hot spot. Hot areas can disable solar panels. Hot areas can ignite solar panels. Brown spots or stained solar panels might indicate hot spots.
A competent solar panel firm can diagnose and rectify hot spots on solar panels. The solar panel is under warranty and may be fixed or replaced for free. You can prevent hot spots by routinely cleaning and inspecting your solar panels for dirt and shade.
Final Thoughts
Repairing solar panels might be expensive and time-consuming, but they’re a long-term investment. By inspecting for damage often, you may avoid costly solar panel repairs. Solar panels may reduce your energy cost, so take care of them. With appropriate maintenance, your solar panels will last for years. If you detect difficulties with your solar panel system that you can’t solve, contact a Midwest Solars professional as soon as possible. We’ll examine the situation and recommend a solution.
