Solar panels have great resistance and durability, however their production can be reduced if we do not carry out proper maintenance on them. This maximum production of solar panels is only reached under ideal conditions, since in reality there are losses caused by a multitude of factors such as poor orientation and inclination, shadows or accumulated dust and dirt.
The solution to these setbacks lies in a correct and methodical maintenance of the photovoltaic solar panels. The maintenance of these solar panels must be carried out taking into account a series of conditions to reach the maximum production of these devices. We explain it to you below.
What happens if I do not carry out correct maintenance of solar panels?
The loss of performance caused by the lack of cleaning of the photovoltaic solar panels could reach up to 8% in places where a lot of dust is produced. This means that special attention must be paid in industrial warehouses or areas heavily used by vehicles.
This loss of performance of solar modules is explained because these photovoltaic solar panels are made up of silicon cells, which react to the impact of photons, producing electrical energy. Therefore, keeping the surface of solar panels clean is essential so that the cells are able to receive the maximum possible radiation.
These losses can be reduced if we carry out a good cleaning frequently, keeping losses below 1% during the useful life of the solar panels.
How is the maintenance of solar panels carried out?
The cleaning of solar panels is very similar to the one we can do on the windows of our house. It will be necessary to use water with a small amount of soap to make it easier to rinse later. It is not recommended to use detergents or harsh cleaning materials as we can permanently damage the surface of the panel.
Bearing this in mind, the best way to clean the module is using a soft sponge and a small amount of dishwashing liquid, pre-wetting the dirt so that it is easier to remove later. Finally, rinse the panel abundantly with water without leaving soap residue.
As a general rule, it is recommended to carry out this cleaning 3 or 4 times a year, or more frequently if it is an area with a high level of dust and dirt.
When performing maintenance on any type of equipment, it is important to put safety first and foremost. Before carrying out any maintenance or repair task, it is essential to read the instructions of the manufacturer and become familiar with proper procedures and safety precautions.
In addition to this, the owner of the solar panels must be attentive to the other elements of the photovoltaic system and replace them if they are already defective.
Some advice for the maintenance of solar panels
The maintenance of the solar panels is essential to ensure the good performance of the installation and to be able to benefit from the maximum production of the photovoltaic modules. The following tips may be helpful in ensuring proper maintenance:
1. Visual inspection: It is necessary to periodically carry out a visual inspection to detect any defect that may exist in the installation: broken or damaged panels, broken cables or accumulation of dirt and dust.
2. Cleaning: It is essential to periodically clean the solar panels, especially in dusty and sandy areas. This must be done with a soft brush, avoiding the use of any type of chemical product.
3. Orientation and inclination: The orientation and inclination of the solar panels should be checked periodically to ensure that they continue to point towards the sun. If the panels are not correctly oriented, it can decrease the production of the installation.
4. Electrical Connections: The electrical connections of the solar panel should be checked periodically to ensure that they are secure and that there is no risk of electrical shock.
5. Temperature: The temperature of the solar panels should be checked periodically to ensure that it is within the recommended operating temperature range. If the temperature is too high, it can reduce the efficiency of the array of panels.
Regular maintenance of solar panels is key to guarantee optimal performance, thus ensuring that you can benefit from the maximum production of photovoltaic modules. Keep in mind that the larger the photovoltaic installation, the more attention will have to be paid to the maintenance of the solar panels and the system components.
By following these tips you will make sure you get the most out of your solar panels and prolong their useful life.
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