Protecting Your Solar Panels Installing solar panels is a large investment, and it should be protected. Unfortunately, solar panels are exposed to a number of extreme elements. An undue amount of extreme conditions or debris can cause damage to your solar panel investment. Be sure to implement these steps to ensure that your solar panels stay in top condition and reduce the likelihood of damage. Another unfortunate result if you do not take care of your solar panels properly is you may experience reduced efficiency of your solar panels. Be sure to take care of your panels to make sure they produce the most energy and last for many years. First it’s important to get a solar panel that will help you keep it protected. You can do that by buying a solar panel that has built-in films to protect the panel from harsh environments, such as salt-mist, ammonia, or fire. A great option is the Helios 255 watt panels. The Helios 255 watt panels have a 25 year linear performance warranty and a 10 year workmanship warranty. While most solar panels are on roofs, it is not necessary. Solar panels are placed on roofs to reduce the amount of overhead shade. But if you are able to ensure a clear path for the sun’s rays to hit your solar panels on the ground, it will be easier for you to maintain.
Location If you anticipate difficulties protecting your solar panels on the roof, seriously consider placing your solar panels closer to the ground. Simply put, solar panels that are more readily accessible are easier to maintain. You can protect your solar panels by regularly cleaning them. Be sure to pull out some soap, warm water and a rage to get rid of the dust, dirt, grime, and bird droppings. Although we always think of sunny summer, the sun doesn’t stop shining in the winter. However, if you live in a location that is prone to snow be sure to clear the snow off of your solar panels—the sun’s rays will not penetrate the solar panels until the snow is cleared.
Newer Technology Thankfully modern solar panels have been designed to withstand the fierce wind and hail found in some treacherous storms. Newer panels have unbreakable materials to protect the delicate silicon; if you have an older set of solar panels consider placing sheets of plywood over your solar panels before a storm comes in. Especially if you live in a rural area, consider implementing some anti-theft protection on your solar panels. Use locking bolts on your panels, place tamper-proof stickers with the owners name on it, and/or security cameras and alarms. You should consider replacing your solar panels if it has been noticeably damaged. Also although your panels may last 40 years, there’s a chance that their efficiency will decrease after 25 years. As always seek the help of a solar panel expert for advice on how to protect your solar panels, or when it would be best for you to replace your solar panels. Photo Credit: Julian, Kuzeytac,