Solar panel maintenance is a key factor to ensure the efficiency, safety, and durability of any photovoltaic installation. Although solar systems have a lifespan of over 25 years and operate quietly and reliably on a daily basis, they are not completely maintenance-free. In fact, proper solar panel care can boost annual energy production and significantly extend the system’s lifetime.
In this article, we’ll cover the key aspects of solar panel maintenance: the different types, how often they should be carried out, and which components should be checked in each case. We’ll also explain how a regular solar maintenance plan can help you prevent issues and ensure maximum performance of your solar installation.
Types of Solar Panel Maintenance
The maintenance of a solar installation can be divided into two main categories:
- Preventive Maintenance: Planned and regular actions to prevent failures and keep the solar system in optimal condition.
- Corrective Maintenance: Specific interventions to fix failures, malfunctions, or detected efficiency losses.
Both types are essential to ensure the continuous and safe performance of the solar installation.
Preventive Maintenance of a Photovoltaic Installation
Preventive maintenance allows you to anticipate problems before they occur. This not only helps avoid production downtime but also extends the lifespan of the system’s main components.
Connections and Wiring
Electrical connections and both DC and AC wiring should be inspected annually to check for:
- No loose or corroded connections.
- Integrity of terminals and joints.
- No overheating or insulation wear.
- Proper fastening of cables to the structure and absence of nests or animal bites.
A failure in the connections can lead to a significant drop in production or even fires caused by the Joule effect.
Solar panels
Solar panels are exposed to weather conditions throughout the year. It is essential to:
- Carry out regular cleaning (1 to 3 times a year).
- Do not use abrasive products or high-pressure jets that could damage the glass.
- Check for shading, microcracks, delamination, or hot spots.
Dirt can reduce energy production by up to 15–20% if panels are not cleaned regularly.
Solar Panel Structure
The structure that supports the panels also needs to be inspected, especially in rooftop installations or areas with strong winds. Maintenance includes:
- Verification of anchors and fastenings.
- Checking for possible oxidation, corrosion, or deformations.
- Ensuring there are no displacements caused by thermal expansion.
An unstable structure can compromise the safety of both the installation and people.
Solar batteries
In off-grid installations or self-consumption systems with batteries, these require specific attention. Battery inspection includes:
- Monitoring the temperature and ventilation of the enclosure.
- Verification of the state of charge (SOC) and depth of discharge (DoD).
- Visual inspection of terminals, cells, and casing.
Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries require less maintenance than lead-acid ones, but it is important to:
- Monitor the BMS (Battery Management System).
- Check that there are no communication errors or temperature spikes.
- Confirm the proper operation of the inverter and its communication with the battery.
Lead-Acid Batteries (optional if applicable)
- Checking the electrolyte level (for flooded batteries).
- Periodic cell equalization.
- Cleaning of terminals and control of sulfation.
Inverters and Charge Controllers
The inverter is the electronic heart of the installation, responsible for converting direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Maintenance tasks include:
- Cleaning of ventilation filters (if applicable).
- Checking for errors or alerts on the display or software.
- Verification of daily production and performance.
- Verification of the grid connection and firmware update if applicable.
A failure in the inverter can completely stop solar generation.
Corrective Maintenance of a Photovoltaic Installation
This type of maintenance is carried out when unexpected failures are detected. Some common examples include:
- Replacement of panels damaged by hail or impacts.
- Replacement of defective fuses or circuit breakers.
- Repair of inverters or electronic components.
- Readjustment of the anti-feed-in system or grid protections.
For it to be effective, it is essential to have real-time monitoring that automatically detects production drops or disconnections.
Warranty and Maintenance of a Photovoltaic Installation
Manufacturer and installer warranties are often subject to the customer performing proper maintenance. For example:
- Solar panels usually come with a 25-year performance warranty, but only if they are cleaned regularly.
- Inverters typically have a warranty between 5 and 10 years, and any extension depends on carrying out inspections according to the manual.
- Lithium batteries require adherence to the specified charge cycles and recommended temperatures.
A good maintenance program not only prevents breakdowns but also ensures the validity of warranties.
Maintenance Plans: The Ubora Care Experience
In increasingly sophisticated and connected solar installations, having a professional maintenance plan provides peace of mind, safety, and long-term savings.
At Ubora, we offer Ubora Care, a comprehensive solution for the maintenance of both residential and industrial photovoltaic installations. Our plans range from remote monitoring to urgent assistance.
VER PLANES DE MANTENIMIENTO
With Ubora Care, you ensure that your solar installation runs efficiently, safely, and without interruptions.
Solar panel maintenance is not something that should be left to chance. A well-maintained installation produces more, lasts longer, and allows you to enjoy solar energy with complete confidence. Whether you are a homeowner or a business, having a plan like Ubora Care is a smart decision to protect your investment.
For more content, visit our social media channels: