Tips to Increase the Life of Your Solar Panels

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What Is The Life Expectancy of Solar Panels?

Solar panel systems are an eco-friendly source of energy. They’re designed to harness solar energy and convert it into electricity. Over time, the panels will reach the end of their lifespan and will have to be replaced. Most solar panels can last anywhere from 25-30 years on average. However - you won't find that your solar panel has completely died out after 30 years. Instead, you will notice a significant decrease in their energy output compared to what the manufacturer originally projected. There are various steps that you can take to ensure your solar panels are still working to their best ability after the 25-30 year mark.

How to Extend the Life of Your Solar Panels

To make the most out of your investment in clean energy, you can do the following:

  • Use a backup battery: Solar-powered systems like lamps and umbrellas have a storage system where the energy is saved. This energy can be used during nighttime so you can save more money from energy bills. Such a backup battery reduces the load of your solar panels, plus you can use more than one device at a time.
  • Regular inspection is the key: Regular inspection is necessary to spot defects and potential problems. Solar panel repair and maintenance will help prevent a small problem from becoming bigger and more expensive. Always look for loose racks, cracks, exposed wirings, and damaged panels. The repairs for this damage should be addressed by professionals for guaranteed results. Call a solar repair company in Massachusetts for the repairs.
  • Work with a solar concentrator: A solar concentrator is a crucial component of a solar-powered system that concentrates the sunlight to be converted into electricity. The light that falls on the panels will be concentrated to reduce wastage during conversion. Aside from better energy conversion, a solar concentrator is also a money-saver.
  • Keep the panels clean: Keeping the panels clean will prevent damages. If your area has a large bird population, we recommend installing bird barriers. Pigeons love nesting under the panels. Bird droppings also cause chemical damage to the panels themselves. You should also keep dust and leaves away from the panels. This will prevent blockage of sun rays and lead to excellent energy conversion.
  • Set the panels at the right angle: For the best results, the solar panels should be installed at the right angle. Choose an angle that receives the most amount of sunlight all year round. You can enlist the service of a commercial and residential solar repair and installation company to maximize this.

How Much Does It Cost to Maintain Solar Panels?

Maintaining a solar panel system costs around $300 to $400, depending on the number of panels. Residential solar panel maintenance usually costs between $15 and $35 per panel. Aside from repairs, professional cleaning and installation will add up to the cost. Although it may seem expensive, annual inspections will help reduce overall maintenance fees. Damage from solar panels will also affect the overall cost of maintenance. Corrosion and obstructions are the cheapest to solve, whereas inverter problems can be the most expensive.

Schedule Your Solar Service Today

Solar panels are cost-efficient means of acquiring electrical energy. However, for you to maximize the lifespan of the panels, you should know how to maintain them. There are basic steps you can take alongside the help of professional solar panel contractors. If maintained well, you can enjoy decades of free electricity from the sun.

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