How To Increase the Life of Your Solar Panels

Some people may be deterred from going the solar way because home solar systems were so expensive when they initially appeared on the market. However, just as the cost of digital watches have plummeted since their early years, the price of solar panels and solar home construction has decreased in recent times. If you are aware of this fact and are now contemplating converting your home using solar panels, you probably want to be sure that the system will continue to serve you for a long period of time. So, how many summers and winters can you reasonably expect to benefit from this investment?

The average manufacturer's warranty on solar panels is approximately 25 years, although there are many such panels still in operation that have greatly exceeded this life span. Two key factors to long product life are appropriate maintenance and a compatible climate. This article looks at maintenance and possible repair needs.

Routine Maintenance

Panels must remain free and clear of debris and/or limbs falling from overhanging trees, and they must be completely open to the sun and sky without being in the shade. As you would guess, solar panels work best when completely exposed to direct sunlight. Routine checks for tree branches and other obstructions should be made by every owner of a home solar system.

Dust and particles that circulate during high winds and storms account for the accumulation of dirt on the panels. As dirt builds up, it begins to keep sun rays from reaching the panels and it lowers the efficiency of energy conversion. Therefore, regular maintenance includes cleaning the panels with an appropriate cleaning and washing solution to maintain their effectiveness and ensure their longevity.

Repairs

Solar panels have a minimum number of parts. Fewer parts means fewer things an go wrong. But almost no man-made product is indestructible, and during the life of your wonderful green system there may be a need for repairs due to:

faulty wiring
burned out system battery terminals
heat fading
cracked glass

Wiring problems may result from wires that are too small, corrosion, oxidation or from wires that are too loosely connected. Solar batteries can burn out just the same as car batteries do. In very high climates, excessive heat from the sun (not from the sunlight itself) can cause overheating which decreases energy production. Sometimes winds can result in flying rocks and gravel which can damage the panels. Small cracks from wind damage can be repaired using glass tape, but extensive damage may require you to replace an entire panel with a new one.

These are the most likely repair projects that you will need to address. To ensure that your system is well cared for, use this as your first checklist if you suspect that your system is not operating at its peak. Prepare in advance, and make sure that you have a solar panel repair kit on hand just in case.

Here's to a Long Life

Many solar panels are still operating well after 40 years, and there are regular sales of old and used panels. One consensus is that they begin to lose capacity after they reach the 20 year mark. Each manufacturer uses different source materials, and the type and quality of the materials will, of course, affect the longevity of your system. To get the most out of your investment, be sure to do regular maintenance and make repairs when you first spot a problem.

As the demand for solar products increases, more and more improvements are being made in quality and reliability. For now, it is safe to say that an investment for a home solar system will treat you well for the next 20 to 40 years.


I enjoy exploring all kinds of green energy options to learn about innovations in technology and for their economical benefits. Information just like this will help you to learn various ways of accessing free electricity and free energy power. If you really want to learn about additional options for cutting down your utility bills while being mother-earth-friendly, see below for information on homemade electricity, solar panels and more.

Discover other power alternatives by reading about solar energy.
You can also be introduced to new discoveries in homemade electricity.