May 21, 2019

We look forward

As a matter of course, the performance of a photovoltaic system depends, to a great extent, on its maintenance. But what should we know about caring for our system?

In general, photovoltaic systems (except track-side parks) require little maintenance as they do not include any mechanical equipment (engines, moving parts, etc.). Installers offer regular maintenance packages that mainly include basic material and system controls. This, of course, is required to keep the panel’s surface clean, removing dust and any impurities (if required).

 Depending on the size, location and type of each installation, specific regular control and maintenance actions could be adopted to ensure maximum performance and higher efficiency in kWh and money, such as:

1) Removal of any impurities from the surface of the panels It is estimated that impurities on the panels can reduce annual production by 10-15%. For cleaning use hot water and dishwashing detergent. However, it is necessary to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remove any bird droppings. Feces can greatly reduce electricity production. When cleaning do not use materials that can scratch the glazing surface of the panels. Photovoltaic systems that are installed in areas with a lot of dust or pollen may require more frequent inspection and cleaning.

2) System production control When designing each system, its monthly output in kilowatt hours (kWh) has been calculated. It is good to compare the theoretical performance of the system with the real each month. It is also good to check the performance history and error messages that are output from the inverter. In this way, the operation of the system is checked and any malfunction can be detected.

3) Check the base of the system base Loose connections can cause unwanted noises, reduce rigidity of construction, and carry loads within the photovoltaic panels.

Guarantees make the difference

All the materials of each photovoltaic system are accompanied by written certifications of each manufacturer.

The guarantees given are as follows:

1. PANEL

• Product warranty: The manufacturer guarantees for a period of 5-12 years (usually 10) that the panels do not show a manufacturing defect and are valid from the date of delivery. During the term of validity of the warranty, if a manufacturing defect is found in a panel, then the company has to repair it or replace it without any charge for the customer.
• 10-year power guarantee: The manufacturer guarantees that after that time the photovoltaic panels will deliver at least a percentage of their rated power (usually 90% – 92%).
• 25-year power guarantee: The manufacturer guarantees that after that time the panels will deliver at least a percentage of their rated power (usually 80% – 82%).

1. INVERTERS

• Inverters guarantee good operation:

The manufacturer guarantees the proper operation of the inverters for 5-7 years (in some cases and 12 years). There is the possibility of extending the warranty for an additional 5-20 years, with a corresponding charge.

1. SUPPORT BASES

• Guarantee of composition, mechanical properties and tolerances of aluminum bases: The manufacturer guarantees for 10-25 years the chemical composition of the raw material, the mechanical properties and tolerances of the dimensions of the aluminum bars produced.

1. WIRING

• Product warranty: The manufacturer warrants for 3-5 years that the cables do not have a manufacturing defect.
• Guarantee of UV resistance, conductivity and insulation of Solar cables: The manufacturer guarantees for 10-25 years that, during the guaranteed period, the cables will have protection against UV radiation, they will provide proper conduction and insulation.

We do not forget to …

• Replace any worn materials immediately
• We plan annual cable resistance, lightning protection and grounding measurements

• We prune trees and plants that create shading in the system