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Apart from the money, you will save on your electric bills, solar panels are also known for being extremely easy to maintain. Like everything else in your home, it is important to check the system and provide any necessary care, but you will not need to follow a daily or weekly schedule. Here are some essential home solar panel maintenance tips.

Regular inspection

The best way to tell whether or not your solar panels need attention is by inspecting them regularly. For the most part, people place their panels on their roof in order to maximize their exposure to the sun and so that they don’t take up any space on the property. Another benefit of a roof installation is that you don’t have to worry about ground debris. That said, if your panels require maintenance, they are easier to take care of if they are lower and easier to reach. In some cases, extreme weather (like devastating hail storms) can impact your solar panels. You should always inspect your panels after a storm.

Clean debris away

Pollen, dirt, and various forms of debris can build up over time. You will usually see solar panels placed at an angle so they are not as susceptible to a build-up of dirt. Regular rains will usually keep the panels clean enough that they still operate at optimal levels. However, if you notice that their output is lower than usual, you may want to inspect for excess dirt and give them a clean. Many homeowners simply use their garden hose to spray the panels from time to time. The main thing you want to be careful of is scratching these panels. Scratches can definitely affect the amount of solar energy they are able to harness. If you want to give your panels a thorough clean, remember to never use abrasive materials or substances. Always ask the manufacturer about their recommendations. Harsh chemicals should also be avoided.

Monitor the position

When you first install your home solar panels, you may believe that you have picked the perfect spot. Over time, however, the trees in your yard may grow and this results in shade where there was once full sun. If any of your trees start to obstruct your solar panels, you have two choices. You can trim the tree or you can move the solar panels. It’s also important to make sure that your panels are facing the right direction in order to ensure that they receive the maximum amount of sunlight each day.

Monitor energy usage

You could rely on your local utility company to let you know how much energy you are selling back to the grid. However, since you are not directly monitoring your output, you can never really know for sure. This is why many homeowners invest in an energy monitor. This allows them to track the efficiency of their solar power system and it is also a great indicator should there be a problem with your panels, wiring, or another part of the system.

Physical components

It also doesn’t hurt to inspect all the physical components of the system. Especially since most of them are exposed to the elements. Check connections, wires, and anything that could experience wear and tear. This will make it possible for you to spot any problems before they cause any damage or cause your solar power system to completely shut down. Remember to always consult an expert when repairs or a part replacement is needed.

For more details on home solar panels to suit your needs, contact Vert Globe at (647) 977-9097.