Posted on 13 November 2017
One in five Australian homes now uses solar energy for electricity and hot water, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. While these energy systems require little maintenance, calling in a professional to check your solar panels can save you money and increase the efficiency of your system. Here’s why solar panel maintenance is important in South Australia.
Solar panels provide you with a cheap power source – a 3 kW solar PV system cuts the average electricity bill by 65 percent in South Australia, according to the Australian Solar Council and can boost the value of your home. However, your energy system can decrease in inefficiency by as much as 20 percent over time if your solar panels aren’t regularly cleaned.
Dirt buildup makes it difficult for your solar panels to absorb sunlight properly, rendering your system less efficient. A professional who carries out solar panel maintenance can remove dirt and grime that has accumulated on the surface of your system. Statistics suggest that cleaning your system annually can increase its efficiency by as much as 21 percent and maximize returns on your investment.
Some of the most common solar panel problems include no power and low voltage issues. During a solar maintenance check, a trained engineer will assess your panels for performance, test the switches, AC electricity system and DC circuits, and ensure your solar energy system is working properly.
A specialist can also identify any issues before they happen. Fixing a problem with your system can save you money on repair costs, and you will be able to rectify any damage before the issue gets worse.
In Queensland, for example, more than 200 fires from September 2010 to July 2015 were the result of faulty DC isolators, inverters and wiring connectors in solar panel systems.
Regular servicing can ensure your safety: A solar power professional will check electrical components for signs of water damage and corrosion, which could pose a significant risk to you and your family. A specialist can even check the condition of your roof and recommend a solution if a problem is identified.
Rooftop solar is cheaper in Adelaide than grid electricity. However, if you want to continue to make savings, regular solar system servicing is imperative.
Here at Solar Power Direct, we’re accredited by the Clean Energy Council and are proud to be Master Electricians. We’ll carry out a comprehensive check of your solar power system that includes cracks and defect inspection, dust and dirt removal, and an electrical component test. Call us now and book a fast, flexible service for only $249!