Solar panels are an excellent addition to any home. Not only do they provide power, but they’re also eco-friendly. But how do you know when it’s time to seek help from your solar panel maintenance service? Here are three signs it’s time for solar panel maintenance services.
Low Power Output
If your solar panels are suddenly producing less power, then it’s definitely a sign for you to call in your solar panel maintenance company. Your solar panel power output should be relatively consistent from day to day, so a sudden drop or a slow decline in power output is definitely cause for concern. There are a number of reasons why this could happen, which means your solar panel repair technician may have to do a little bit of investigative work. Some of the most common issues include:
- Dirty panels
- Cracked or damaged panels
- “Weak link” panels in a string inverter setup
Once your technician finds the root of the issue, it’s typically not a complex fix. Just don’t wait to make the call for repairs when you notice that something is off.
Unexpected Shutdowns
Unexpected shutdowns should be an immediate red flag if you have solar panels installed on your property. Anything from poor installation service to manufacturing defects can cause unexpected shutdowns, which means it’s essential to call your solar panel repair company to figure out what the cause of the issue is and get it fixed. One of the first things they’ll check for is loose wires and damaged panels. It’s also possible that this might be an inverter issue. If your inverter isn’t set up to handle high voltage, then it could be shorting out and causing your shutdowns.
Dirty Panels
If your solar panels look dusty, dirty, or otherwise dingy, then it’s time to call for help. We covered earlier that dirty solar panels can have a negative impact on their power output. In order to remedy this, it’s important for you to call in professionals to clean them. Your panels might not be easily accessible or they might be too large for you to clean effectively on your own. If you want the best results from your solar panels, it’s a good idea to have them professionally cleaned.
Almost 2 million solar panel systems have been installed in the United States. If you have one, make sure you know when to call in the pros to help you out.