For anyone who wants to save on electricity bills, solar panels in NZ are a great, tried-and-tested investment. The reduced carbon footprint and added benefits of renewable energy are an added plus. However, many people forget that like any other electrical equipment, solar panels also require regular maintenance.
They’re a significant investment, which is why you need to ensure that they continue to function efficiently. This is especially important during winters when the weather can be harsh and unforgiving. In this guide, we will discuss the importance of solar panel maintenance and why professional services matter. With it, there’s a concise maintenance guide.
The Importance of Solar Panel Maintenance
Regular maintenance of solar panels is crucial for their longevity and performance. It can help identify and fix any issues before they escalate into expensive and time-consuming problems. Cleaning your solar panels is also essential for maximizing their efficiency.
Excess accumulation of dirt and debris can block the sun’s rays and reduce their output. Neglecting solar panel maintenance can lead to a reduction in energy production, damage to the panels, and potentially hazardous situations.
Why Professional Services Matter
Many homeowners may be tempted to do solar panel maintenance themselves. However, it’s important to understand that these are delicate pieces of equipment that require specialized knowledge and tools.
Professional maintenance services can provide a thorough inspection, cleaning, and repair of the panels to ensure they function efficiently. They can also offer advice on how to maximize the panels’ efficiency and extend their lifespan.
Winter Maintenance Checklist For Solar Panels
While each season has its unique requirements for upkeep, the colder months present a particular set of issues. Dealing with them, therefore, requires particular attention. Here is a winter maintenance checklist for solar panels.
1. Trim Any Vines or Branches Dangerously Close To Your Panels
Many trees continue to grow, even during the cooler times of the year, often extending to homeowners’ roofs. Winter winds can cause trees, vines, and branches to break and fall on your solar panels, causing damage. Make sure to trim any foliage that is too close to your panels to prevent any potential damage.
2. Check Your Panel Tilt Angle
During winters, the sun seems to favour tilting lower in the sky. While you can’t do anything about that, it is important to ensure that your solar panels are positioned correctly. A professional solar panel maintenance service can check and adjust the tilt angle of your panels for optimal winter performance.
3. Brace For Snow Damage
Heavy snowfall can cause damage to solar panels, so it’s important to brace them for winter. A professional maintenance service can install snow guards to prevent snow from sliding off the roof and onto the panels. Some properties might benefit from having this service more regularly.
4. Leaf Removal
This is something that you need to get ahead of early on as summer comes to its annual conclusion. Autumn leaves can accumulate on solar panels and prevent them from receiving sunlight. Make sure to clear any leaves collected on your panels to maximize their efficiency.
5. Winter Bird-Proofing
During winters, birds may seek shelter under solar panels, which can cause damage. You can install bird-control and anti-perching measures to prevent this from happening. Meanwhile, winterized birdhouses can provide alternative residence for the birds.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring that your solar panels in NZ continue to function efficiently and provide maximum output. With the winter maintenance checklist above, you can ensure that your solar panels are prepared to withstand the harsh winters.
It’s also important to remember that professional solar panel maintenance services can provide thorough inspections, cleaning, and repair. Needless to say that going the DIY route won’t extend their lifespan and optimize their performance. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy all year round.
