Common Solar Panel Installation Problems - How To Avoid Them?
As a purpose to convert the planet into a sustainable one or to empower positive change in the world, the investment made in solar panels is one of the best investments one can make. Along with this, one can be prone to save money and money on energy bills.
Solar panels require relatively low maintenance. So, in order to spread the knowledge regarding the same, here in this article, we have taken the initiative to guide you by reflecting on some common solar energy problems and solutions.
Most Common Solar Panel Problems And Solutions
1. Solar Panels are not always efficient:
The most un-unique problems that occur with solar panels are that they are not always efficient in converting sunlight into energy that can be used further. There are a variety of factors that affect the productivity of the solar, including improper installation or orientation, shading from trees or buildings, and dirt or debris build-up on the panels.
The good news is that there are ways to improve the efficiency of your solar panels, for instance, by ensuring the installation of the panels in a location with full sun exposure and that they are kept clean. You can also invest in solar panel tracking systems, which allow the panels to follow the sun’s movement throughout the day to maximize their exposure to sunlight.
2. Solar Panels can be damaged by severe weather:
Another big environmental problem with solar panels is that they can be damaged by severe weather conditions, like high winds, hail, or lightning strikes. This damage can occur either to the panels themselves or to the electrical components that connect the panels to the rest of the solar energy system.
The best way to get the protection of your solar panels from severe weather is to have them installed by a professional who knows all the tricks to secure them. The process of regular system inspection is also helpful in checking the connections tight and that there are no loose or damaged components.
3. Solar Panels require regular maintenance:
The major requirement of the panels is that they require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to make them fully functional. This requirement occurs as they are constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause dirt and the generation of debris on their surface. If the panels are left unchecked, the generation of dirt can decrease the ability of the absorption of the amount of sunlight that the panels are able to absorb, which will, in turn, reduce their efficiency.
To keep your solar panels active for a longer time, it is important to make regular cleaning of them and check their connections. You should also have your system inspected by a professional on a yearly basis.
4. Solar panels can be stolen:
Yes, solar panels can be stolen. This is usually an issue for those who have their panels installed in remote locations, like on a rural property or in an undeveloped area. It becomes relevant to take steps to secure your solar panels to deter thieves and save guard from them as well.
In order to safeguard the solar panels from theft, one can install the panels in a location that is not easily accessible. Apart from this, one can also take the help of certain security systems that include an alarm or camera that can help you to deter thieves.
5. Solar panels can be aesthetically displeasing:
Another common problem with solar panels is that they can be aesthetically displeasing. This is often due to their big size or the fact that they are mounted on the roof of a home or building.
If you are more concerned about the aesthetics of your solar panels, there are a few things that you can do to mitigate this issue. For example, the installation of the panels can be done in a location that is not highly visible from the street or your neighbors’ homes. You can also invest in solar panel covers or skins that can change the color or pattern of the panels to better match your home’s exterior.
6. Electrical issues:
Solar panels are connected to the electrical grid; such types of solar energy can experience problems with their electrical connections. Generally, this problem occurs in case of a loose connection or a break in the wiring. If not fixed, this can lead to a loss of power or even a fire.
The best way to prevent electrical issues is to have them installed by a professional who can ensure the overall safety of the product and their wirings as well. They can make the connection accordingly. You should also have your system regularly inspected to ensure that all of the connections are tight and that there are no loose or damaged components.
7. Solar Panel Inverter Problems:
The inverter is an important component of any solar energy system, as it helps in converting the DC electricity produced by the panels into AC electricity. This electricity can be used for home or business usage. If there is some problem with the inverter, it can cause a loss of power or even a fire.
As a resolution to this problem, it is important to have it installed by a professional and to have your system inspected regularly. You should also be sure to keep an eye on the inverter’s display panel for any error messages that may indicate a problem.
8. Battery problems:
If you have a solar energy system that is not connected to the grid, then you will likely have batteries that help in storing the electricity produced by the panels. These batteries can experience a number of problems; some of these problems can be sulfation, overcharging, and undercharging. If not properly maintained, battery problems can lead to a loss of power or even a fire.
As a solution, it is important to have them installed by a professional and to have your system inspected regularly. You should also be sure to check the batteries regularly for any signs of damage or deterioration.
9. Panel Damage:
If the solar panels are made up of glass or any other material that can cause breakage to the product, then the situation comes under this category. This is usually due to severe weather conditions, such as high winds or hail. Panel damage can lead to a loss of power or even a fire.
To prevent panel damage, make sure that your panels are installed in a location that is protected from severe weather conditions. You should also be sure to inspect your panels regularly for any signs of damage.
10. Cost:
Over the globe, there is a myth that the installation of solar panels is an expensive matter to take. Along with this, the maintenance is also too high. The cost of solar panels has reduced in recent years, but the initial investment can still be sizable. Additionally, solar energy systems require regular maintenance to maintain their workability.
If you are concerned about the cost of solar energy, there are a few things that you can take into consideration. For example, you can take benefits of government incentives that include tax credits or rebates. You can also finance your solar energy system through a loan or lease program.
11. Hot spots:
Hot spots take place when there is an electrical problem with the solar panels. This issue generally occurs in a situation when the panels are not installed properly or if there is a break in the wiring. Hot spots can lead to a loss of power or even a fire.
To prevent hot spots, make sure to have your system inspected regularly and keep the connections tight, and after that, there will be no loose or damaged components. Also, keep an eye on the panel’s display panel for any error messages that may indicate a problem.
12. PID effect:
PID, which can also be said as potential-induced degradation, is a phenomenon that can occur in solar panels. It happens when there is a build-up of electric potential on the surface of the panel, which can degrade the performance of the panel over time. PID can be caused because of improper installation or exposure to extreme temperatures.
To prevent PID, the installation of the panels should be done by a professional to be sure that the panels are protected from extreme temperatures. You should also have your system regularly inspected for any signs of degradation.
13. Soiling:
Solar panels should always be clean so that they can function properly. Soiling can reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches the panel, which will, in turn, reduce the amount of electricity that the panel produces. Soiling can be caused by the collection of dust, pollen, bird droppings, and leaves over the surface of the panels.
To prevent soiling, do regular cleaning of the solar system. You should also be sure to inspect your panels regularly for any signs of dirt or debris.
14. Snow:
Snow can also affect the absorption power of the panels in a negative way, which will, in turn, reduce the amount of electricity that the panel produces. Snow can also cause physical damage to the panel if it is collected in large quantities.
To prevent problems with snow, clean your solar panels. You should also be sure to inspect your panels regularly for any signs of damage.
15. Birds:
Birds can cause damage to solar panels in two ways. Primarily, they can physically damage the panel by building a nest on it or if they try to peck at it. Secondly, their droppings can spoil the panel and reduce its efficiency.
To prevent problems with birds, cleaning is essential. You should also be sure to inspect your panels regularly for any signs of damage.
16. Snail trails:
Snail trails can also reduce the ability of the solar panel, which will, in turn, reduce the amount of electricity that the panel produces. Snail trails can also cause physical damage to the panel if collected in large quantities.
To prevent problems with snail trails, you should inspect your panels regularly for any signs of damage and keep them clean.
17. Insects:
Insects can be a problem for solar panels in two ways. They can physically damage the panel if they try to build a home on the surface of the system. Secondly, their droppings can spoil the panel and reduce its ability to perform better.
The solution to the same can be cleaning only.
18. Problems With Solar Panels On Roofs:
If you have solar panels installed on your roof, be aware of the potential for roof damage. Solar panels can put a lot of stress on your roof, and if they are not installed properly, they can cause leaks or other problems. To prevent roof damage, make your system inspect regularly and be sure that the panels are installed correctly.
Conclusion:
Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill and help the environment. However, there are a few things that you need to be informed about in order to keep your solar panels in good condition. Be sure to inspect your panels regularly for any signs of damage or degradation, and be sure to clean them regularly.