ARKA ENERGIES

Maintenance

Maintenance

With the rapid increase in the use of solar power systems, there is a dire need for well-managed operations & maintenance services to keep the performance of the solar plant at par with the expectations of the customer. Solar panels generally require very little maintenance in order to function, so yes, you can usually just let them be. The only thing most solar panels need is a periodic light cleaning to make sure dirt, leaves, and other debris aren’t obstructing the sun’s rays. You may also want to check underneath the panels for debris or signs of animals, and potentially spring for solar critter guards if this becomes an issue. The only time you may need more extensive maintenance is if you discover signs of animals nesting under your system (in which case you may need solar critter guards) and during periods of heavy snowfall, as large amounts of snow on solar panels can hinder their performance.

How do you maintain solar panels?
If your panels are tilted, you’re in luck: rainfall will actually clear away debris that’s accumulated on them. However, during the dry season or extended periods without rain, it’s important to clean them manually. It is generally recommended that you perform solar panel cleaning between two and four times per year. While that might seem like a lot, the good news is that this doesn’t require much work. All you really need is a leaf blower or a quick spray with a garden hose, and your panels will be clean and in top condition. In winter, you may need to clean your panels after a heavy snowfall. If you’re using water to clear the snow away, make sure it’s lukewarm. You can also use a squeegee with a long handle. It is important to note that you should never use hot water when clearing snow off the panels. The panels are made of tempered glass, and the extreme temperature disparity between hot water and cold panels can crack them.
So, are solar panels hard to maintain?

All in all, maintaining your solar panels is pretty easy. If you notice dust, debris or snow piled up, a quick clean will ensure that your panels operate effectively. Additionally, be sure the panels you get come with a good warranty so that if your panels do break, they get replaced.
Do that, and your panels should continue to operate at peak efficiency, bringing you clean, renewable solar power for years to come. Learn more about installing solar panels in your home in our beginner’s guide.

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