Prepare Your Rooftop Solar Panels for the Summer

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With the sun at its highest position in the sky during the summer months, your solar panels absorb more direct sunlight than at any other time of the year. In other words, your solar system will be working at high capacity, enabling you to generate more energy. Yet, with the summer comes weather issues which can hinder performance. With the following strategies, you can protect your system during this brightest time of the year.

Preventive Maintenance

Just as with any mechanical or electrical system, maintenance is necessary to sustain operational efficiency. After our unusually wet winter and spring, you want to catch any potential issues before they impact production. The best place to start is with a physical inspection of the panels and system. A solar service technician can identify any potential problems and make the necessary adjustments or repairs.

Panel Cleaning

Solar panels can collect dust, pollen, bird droppings and dirt. Although rain can wash off panels, it also can cause debris to stick to them. In a recent study, solar panels with a typical tilt of 30 degrees can experience a loss of power of up to five percent due to the build-up of dirt, pollen and dust. This is why panel cleaning is so important.

Often, a spray with a garden hose is enough to clean panels. However, if there is a large accumulation, you may need to use warm water and soap. Make sure to clean the surface with a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the panels and take extra precautions when climbing on your roof. You can also choose to play it absolutely safe by calling a professional to clean the panels.

Installing a solar energy system is a sound investment. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment, it’s essential to schedule regular inspections and maintenance. With the summer season upon us, it’s an ideal time to consider the upcoming weather and elements that have an impact on your system’s production and make sure that your system is ready to capture all the value that the sun has to offer.