5 Tips for Keeping Your Solar Installation Running Smoothly
Standard grid-tied solar systems are generally “maintenance-free,” but regular checks are essential to keep your system running efficiently. By scheduling routine maintenance, you can maximize your solar energy production, monitor performance, and ensure everything functions as it should.
Think of your solar PV system like a vehicle—you wouldn’t buy a car and neglect to maintain it. While solar panels require far less attention than a car, setting up regular checks is like scheduling oil changes for your vehicle: a small effort that goes a long way in protecting your investment.
The following are a few simple maintenance suggestions:
1. Track the expiration date of your systems manufacturing warranties.
If your system is nearing the end of its warranty period, reach out to the manufacturer to inquire about purchasing an extended warranty (only applicable through certain manufacturers). This small investment has the potential to save you thousands of dollars worth of replacement components should one of your components fail.
2. Be aware of unwanted critter activity around or under your solar array.
Squirrels can be very destructive if left to their whims under a solar array. They can build nests, chew wires, create fire hazards, cause electrical faults that turn off the array, and even cause damage to the roof surface of your home. Birds can also become a nuisance and cause similar types of damage. If you notice critter activity around or under your array, consider calling a wildlife removal specialist, checking in with our service team to check for damages, and/or installing a critter guard around your array (if you do not already have it).
3. Check and maintain the connection of your monitor on a regular basis.
If you have a monitor installed on your solar PV system, it is worth checking monthly or even weekly. If you do not have a monitor, consider purchasing one to be installed on your system. The benefits of having a properly functioning monitor include visibility into production, confirmation of system functionality, options for system error alerts, and a money-saving troubleshooting tool. It is common for monitors to become disconnected from their original internet connection, which means they cannot record or report data. Fortunately, this is usually a simple and affordable fix.
4. Monitor your utility bills monthly.
Many factors influence the fluctuation of the price that you might see on your utility bills, and while many of these factors are not directly tied to your solar PV system, an uncharacteristically high bill is still worth looking into. If something is wrong with your solar PV system and it goes unnoticed for a significant amount of time, it will eventually show up on your utility bill, so keeping a record of your utility bills can be very useful in the event of a production-related issue. This is especially true if you do not have a monitor installed on your solar PV system. Be sure you are aware of yearly patterns on your bills, such as higher bills in the winter when solar production is down and other weather-related events. It is also important to be aware when electrical loads are changed or added or if more residents are occupying space, as these things will also influence your utility usage and bills.
5. Schedule a professional system inspection.
If you are concerned about your system’s functionality, are selling your home, and would like a system inspection report to hand off to the new owner or want an inspection for your peace of mind, we are here to help. IPS has highly knowledgeable electricians and service technicians on staff to deal with almost any solar PV related inquiry. We are available on weekdays from 8 am – 5 pm at 303.443.0115, or you can fill out a service request online.
Maintaining your solar installation is simple and doesn’t require much time. Following these few maintenance suggestions can save you money and annoyance in the long run.
