Clean your solar panels at least once a month to ensure maximum efficiency.
Dust, dirt, and even bird droppings can block sunlight from reaching the solar cells and prevent them from generating electricity. In addition, leaves and other debris can clog the drains, leading to water damage. Fortunately, cleaning your solar panels is easy. Simply rinse them with a hose or use a soft brush to remove any buildup. For a deeper clean, you can use a mild soap and water solution. Just be sure to rinse the panels thoroughly afterwards to prevent streaks.
Inspect your solar panels for damage every few months and repair them as necessary.
Over time, solar panels can become damaged by wind, snow, ice, and hail. That’s why it’s important to inspect your solar panels for damage every few months and repair them as necessary. The good news is that most solar panel repairs are relatively simple and can be done without having to call a technician. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Keep trees trimmed so they don’t block the sun’s rays from reaching the panels.
Trees are an important part of the ecosystem, but they can also have a significant impact on solar panels. When tree branches block the sun’s rays from reaching the panels, it can reduce their efficiency by up to 30%. In some cases, shading can also lead to panel overheating, which can cause long-term damage. As a result, it’s important to keep trees trimmed so they don’t block the sun’s rays from reaching the panels.
Replace any broken or damaged solar panels immediately.
Solar panels are also fragile and can be easily damaged. If you have a broken or damaged solar panel, it is important to replace it as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure that your system continues to function properly, but it will also help to protect your investment. Solar panels are designed to withstand the elements, but they are not indestructible. High winds, hail, and falling debris can all cause damage.
Make sure the inverter is turned on and functioning properly.
Before you begin using your new inverter, there are a few things you need to do to make sure it is functioning properly. First, check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if the inverter needs to be turned on. If so, locate the switch and flip it to the “on” position. Next, check all the connections to make sure they are tight and secure. Finally, test the inverter by plugging in a small appliance and turning it on. If everything is working properly, you should now be able to enjoy the convenience of having a backup power source in case of an outage.
Check your utility bills to make sure you’re still saving money since going solar.
Here are a few things to look for:
- A decrease in your overall energy usage. This is probably the most obvious sign that your solar panels are working effectively. If you see a decrease in energy usage, that means your solar panels are providing enough power for your home and you’re no longer relying as much on grid-supplied energy.
- A decrease in the cost of the energy you do use. Even if your overall energy usage doesn’t decrease, the cost of the energy you do use should go down since you’re generating some of your own power. Check the per-unit cost of energy on your bill and compare it to previous bills to see if there’s been a difference.
- An increase in the amount of money credited to you by your utility company. Depending on your state and utility company, you may receive credits or other financial incentives for generating renewable energy. These credits will show up as an increase in the amount of money credited to you by your utility company.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your panels are running at peak performance and generating the most electricity possible.
