If you’ve made the decision to go solar, you’ll want to get the most out of your system for years to come. Like any investment, your solar panel system needs to be maintained to ensure it continues producing reliable energy. While panels are durable, they’re not immune to damage, wear, and tear. Let’s break down the importance of regular solar panel maintenance in Baltimore County.
Ensure Maximum Efficiency
The efficiency of your system is one of the key functions. Over time, efficiency can wane in solar systems due to a variety of issues. Individual cells of the solar system can degrade or malfunction over time, causing the entire system to suffer efficiency loss. You may not spot the issue with an eye test, requiring an expert assessment to uncover it properly.
Many solar systems today include digital monitoring apps that allow you to manage your panels. Be sure to check if the output has been consistent, or if you’re seeing drops in energy produced. If your system doesn’t have a digital monitoring system, you can also review the meter installed with your system. This will allow you to manually check the output.
If your panels are suffering from efficiency issues, it’s time to have a professional come and check out the system to address the issues.
Prevent Nesting and Damage From Animals
Regular solar maintenance in Baltimore County is helpful to address issues that can start small and grow over time. Small animals such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, rats, and more can cause problems that you may not be aware of at first.
Some animals like to nest near the base of your solar system, which can tangle and damage electrical components. If built on top of panels, nests can block contact with the sun, reducing overall efficiency.
Other times, curious animals may chew through wires that connect your panels to the inverter. If this happens, your system may cease to function entirely. Maintenance professionals will be able to address critter concerns before they get out of hand. They may also recommend the installation of a critter guard system.
Monitor Tree and Shrub Growth Near Panels
Having a yard with beautiful trees and foliage can be a great experience. However, unchecked growth can put your solar system at risk. A maintenance professional can help you assess whether overgrown shrubbery or overhanging trees pose a threat to solar panels. If they grow over the panels, the new presence of shade can reduce the energy produced by the panel.
Additionally, trees with large branches risk damaging the solar system if a dead limb becomes dislodged and falls don’t the panels. A solar professional can help you identify problem trees and bushes that could adversely affect your system and present solutions to address them.
Assess If Your System Could Use Accessories
As solar systems advance, more accessories are being introduced to complement and protect them. With regular solar panel maintenance in Baltimore County, you can get a better understanding of these accessories. A professional can judge whether or not small animals pose a problem in your area. If they do, a critter guard might be a great idea.
If you live in a region with erratic weather and heavy snowfalls, snow guards might be the right solution to protect you and your solar panels. With new solutions coming into the market, having expert advice on what you need and what you don’t is invaluable.
Reach Out to a Professional Team for All Your Maintenance Needs
If you’re ready to schedule regular maintenance for your solar system, you’ve come to the right place. Fusion Solar Services helps clients throughout MD, PA, VA, and DC accomplish their solar maintenance needs. Our team is qualified and experienced, able to diagnose problems and present solutions that make sense for your system and wallet.
