If you’re considering solar panels for your home, you may have heard a lot about solar panel protection. But what exactly is it?
Since the devices operate with electronics, they require similar types of protection. Sunlight can interfere with how they work, and insects can wreak havoc on the solar panels’ purity.
So, what can you do to ensure their safe and useful life? We want to help you explore some of the benefits of protecting solar panels with this guide!
Let’s explore some of the reasons to put more emphasis on solar panel protection. Let’s start!
Prune Trees and Shrubs Around the Solar Panel Array
It is important to prune trees and shrubs around a solar panel array in order to protect it from damage during severe weather. This is because heavy branches and leaves can act as a sail during higher winds.
Large branches can scrape against the panels and even break them, causing costly repairs. Without pruning, the solar panel array could be heavily damaged in storms or from snow and ice accumulation.
It will also prevent animals from coming in contact with the solar panels, which could result in further damage. Thus, regular trimming is essential in order to sustain a functioning solar energy system and prevent any looming damage.
Invest in Weatherproof Cabling and Support Structures
Weatherproof cabling and support structures can protect your solar panels from damage. It’s an essential part of owning solar devices. It can be expensive, so it makes sense to safeguard them against exposure to severe weather conditions.
It can ensure that your solar panels remain in good condition regardless of the environment that they are exposed to. These cabling and support structures can also reduce the risk of short circuits, fire hazards, and damage to solar panels.
These structures can also help in providing protection against rain, ice, snow, and strong winds. Severe weather can not only damage your equipment, but it can also put you at risk of power loss.
It makes it necessary to invest in appropriate weather protection measures in order to ensure the continued performance and optimal efficiency of your solar devices.
Utilize Protective Coverings
If a solar panel is to sustain any kind of damage, the output of the panel could suffer. It could decrease the amount of energy produced by solar panels. It can protect solar from potential damage caused by extreme temperatures.
Protective plastic or glass-based covers offer a low-cost and simple way to protect solar from the harshest winter weather. It also serves to protect the early-warning winter sunlight while still allowing the solar panel to absorb the heat of the sun during the day.
By utilizing protective coverings during winter weather, homeowners can successfully protect the integrity of their solar panels and maximize the solar energy output in their homes.
Install Surge Protectors and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Surge protectors help absorb sudden and large power surges. It can otherwise fry or even blow out components in solar panels, resulting in costly repairs. It also helps protect from lightning strikes and shorts in the power line by cutting off the power supply in a circuit when a current leak occurs.
Both surge protectors and GFCIs can also help to reduce other risks posed by severe weather. Installing these components as part of a solar system not only ensures that panels are well-protected. It can also save money in the long run by eliminating the need to pay for costly repairs.
For optimal performance and safety of your solar panel system, it’s essential to consider the power supply specifications of your components.
Keep Panels Free of Debris and Bird Droppings
Debris, such as leaves and twigs, can block the pathway of the sun’s energy and prevent your system from generating the power it should. Furthermore, decaying or wet debris on the panels can lead to moisture-related corrosion that can damage your solar panels.
Bird droppings are also damaging as they can keep moisture and cause corrosion or block the sunshine and cause shading. Severe weather can also present more of an issue. As the wind and rain can cause the debris to get pushed up against the sides of the panels, it does even more damage.
Keeping your panels clear of debris and droppings is essential for preserving their functionality during periods of severe weather.
Use Protective Coating
A protective coating is essential for the proper care of your solar panels. It shields them from UV radiation, which can cause discoloration and damage over time.
It also helps resist corrosion and water and keeps it looking clean and attractive. It also guards against abrasion and other wear and tear, making the panels last longer.
It can give better electrical and thermal conductivity; it can have higher efficiency and a lower risk of overheating. It also reduces solar panel maintenance costs, as the coating seals out dirt and debris, reducing the need for regular cleaning.
There are several types of protective coating available, so it is important to inquire about solar panels and which coating is best suited for the type you choose in order to ensure proper protection.
Learn More About Solar Panel Protection Today
With proper solar panel protection and maintenance, you can enjoy the many benefits of solar power. It also decreases expenses on energy bills which is great for homeowners.
Take action now! Contact a local solar expert for more tips on protecting your investment and taking advantage of solar energy’s potential!
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