Can Solar Panel Develop Defects & Degrade?
Key Takeaways:
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners for reducing their carbon footprint and energy costs.
Solar panel defects can occur due to poor installation, corrosion, hotspots, performance degradation, snail trails, bird droppings and insect infestations, cracked cells, or poor electrical connections.
Regular cleaning of the solar panels is necessary as dust accumulation on their surface reduces efficiency. Electrical connections should also be checked regularly for signs of corrosion or wear and tear.
Physical damage should be inspected, such as cracked glass or broken frames. At the same time, inverters must be configured correctly by an expert technician to ensure optimal results from the system’s output.
Property owners should hire a professional contractor when dealing with repairs or maintenance to guarantee safety during workmanship and timely service.
Solar panels are becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners that are going green. Installing them helps reduce the carbon footprint and saves cost on energy bills. As per the recent reports of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2.7 million U.S. residents switched to solar power.
As they require constant sunlight exposure, they are built to last, but does that mean they are perfect? Well, not exactly. Although sturdy, they can eventually degrade and develop defects without proper solar maintenance. If you want to learn about solar panel defects and how they occur, you’ve come to the right place. Energy Advantage Roofing and Solar shines a light on the solar panel defects that can arise. We’ll also go through solar maintenance tips to keep your system working efficiently for years to come.
8 Common Solar Panel Defects
1. Poor Installation
Poor installation may be one of the main reasons your solar panels don’t work correctly. When inexperienced contractors are hired to install solar panels, it may result in malfunctions and inefficiency. It can lead to numerous defects, such as incorrect wiring, faulty connections, and improper seals.
2. Corrosion
Solar panels take the toll of everything the weather offers, whether rain, wind, or snow. Although sturdy, as they contain no moving parts, corrosion is a real risk. If your solar array is exposed to harsh winter weather, snow or rain, there’s an increased chance of corrosion. Rust in the system can cause solar panels to malfunction and reduce efficiency.
3. Hotspots
Hotspots are caused by broken cells or strings. It can be due to wiring issues, poor installation, incorrect voltage settings, and defective solar panels. Hotspots can cause severe damage to the solar array, resulting in decreased efficiency and even fires.
4. Performance Degradation
Over time, performance degradation is inevitable; however, if not adequately monitored and maintained, it could result in premature system failure. With each passing year, the energy generation output will decrease as more dust accumulates on the solar panel’s surface or minor defects occur that reduce efficiency.
5. Snail Trails
Snail trails are often caused by faulty cells in the solar panel, resulting in a decrease in energy generation output. It appears as white streaks or blotches that can be seen on the solar panel’s surface.
6. Bird Droppings and Insect Infestations
Bird droppings and insect infestations can decrease efficiency due to blocked sunlight from the panels. It is essential to ensure that your solar array is regularly cleaned and free of any grime and inspected for any signs of bird or insect-related damage.
7. Cracked Cells
Cracked cells occur when a solar panel is subject to physical stress, such as severe storms and strong winds. If left unchecked, it can lead to further issues with decreased energy output from the solar array.
8. Poor Electrical Connections
Poorly maintained electrical connections can lead to increased resistance, decreasing energy generation output from the panels. It is essential to regularly check the electrical systems for any signs of corrosion or wear and tear.
Solar Maintenance Tips that Property Owners Should Follow
1. Cleaning Solar Panels Regularly
Dust and other debris on the surface of a solar panel will cause it to lose some of its efficiency, thus reducing the amount of energy it can generate. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep the solar panel running at optimal levels and to ensure that it’s not collecting too much-unwanted debris.
2. Inspecting Electrical Connections
It’s important to check electrical connections regularly for signs of corrosion or wear and tear, as this can lead to decreased energy generation output from the solar array. Poorly maintained electrical connections can also increase resistance, resulting in further issues with energy production.
3. Checking Panels for Physical Damage
Solar panels, such as severe storms and strong winds, are subject to physical stress. If left unchecked, it can lead to further issues with decreased energy output from the solar array. Make sure to regularly inspect your panels for any physical damage, such as cracked glass or broken frames.
4. Ensuring Correct Inverter Functioning
Inverters are a vital component of the solar system, converting the direct current (D.C.) generated by the solar modules into alternating current (A.C.). Malfunctioning inverters can lead to ripple effects on the output of your entire system. Ensure you get an expert to regularly inspect and configure them for optimal results.
5. Clear Away Branches
Another way for solar maintenance is to ensure the area around your solar array is free from obstruction due to branches and falling leaves. It will allow for optimal exposure of the panels to sunlight, ensuring maximum energy output.
Why Hire a Professional Contractor to Deal with Solar Maintenance and Repair?
Although you can DIY solar maintenance, we recommend leaving it to the pros. Here are a few reasons why you can benefit from them.
1. Safety is Paramount
The photovoltaic cells in a solar panel system can reach high voltages, which could be dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. An electrician with the proper knowledge and experience can help ensure your safety by safely carrying out repairs and maintenance.
2. Professional Advice
Solar repair contractors have expertise that allows them to diagnose problems quickly and accurately. Their advice can save you money and time in identifying and correcting issues before they escalate into more serious ones.
3. Access to Quality Parts
Professional solar repair technicians can access reliable parts at competitive prices that won’t compromise quality. It means you will get value for money when fixing or replacing faulty parts.
4. Timely Service
When you hire a professional solar repair technician, the service will be done quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to using your solar energy system without delay. That’s important, especially when you have a busy schedule or need repairs.
5. Guaranteed Workmanship
By entrusting your solar repair needs to professional technicians, you get peace of mind knowing that warranties and insurance policies guarantee their work. Any problems with the job can be rectified quickly and free of charge if necessary.
Related: Saving With Solar: Your Business’ Energy Advantage!
Conclusion
In conclusion, solar panel defects and degradation can occur with time. Property owners should monitor their solar systems closely and perform regular maintenance. A professional contractor is the way to go when performing repairs or maintenance. They will be able to promptly identify any problems and get them taken care of quickly. Hence, your system remains running at optimal performance.
Rely on Energy Advantage Roofing and Solar To Keep Your Solar Power System in Optimum Condition in Colorado Springs, CO
Energy Advantage Roofing and Solar is Colorado’s leading solar power provider. Our experienced and certified team is dedicated to helping our clients achieve their energy goals. We offer solar installation, repairs, and maintenance for Colorado Springs and surrounding areas’ solar systems.
Contact us today and get a free estimate for solar maintenance and repairs.