One of the best investments that you can make is a solar panel. In terms of durability and energy efficiency, they are the best alternative to coal power. Solar energy offers you the maximum return on your investment as a renewable form of energy. Solar panels can be installed on the roof of a building or in an open area that has maximum exposure to the sun.
Because these panels are located in an open area, they are susceptible to many factors which may cause them to lose efficiency in the long run. Like other new technologies, solar panels also require regular care and maintenance. Even though solar panels are extremely durable, it is important to ensure they don’t get damaged.
Solar panels are affected by these factors:
- Bird/Animal droppings
- Snowfall
- Weather conditions
- High temperatures leading to excessive heat
- Lightening
Here are the Four Ways to Protect Your Solar Panels from Environmental Damage
Pruning Plants Near the Panels
Solar panels can sometimes get smeared with leaves and debris. It is not guaranteed that the branches of trees will shade your solar panels, but it is possible that the screens could be damaged. Solar panels can undergo these kinds of damage because their structural integrity is at stake.
They may not be able to absorb enough sunlight as they were built to do; consequently, they may not be as productive as their inbuilt capacity. A considerable amount of dents and scratches can be accumulated on an item of equipment, which can eventually lead to the equipment being rendered unusable and requiring a repair or replacement.
If you choose to trim the leaves and branches yourself, it is better either to get in touch with the best solar company in NSW.
Retained Walls
Retained walls are used for the installation of solar panels on the property. This reduces erosion and protects the panels. Soil erosion occurs when excessive rain washes dirt and sand from the ground. Soil erosion causes solar panels to lose agility when chipped and stacked on the ground. When soil erosion occurs frequently, the solar panels can loosen since they are fixed directly into the sand. If solar panels are exposed in such a manner, they can collapse and may even suffer substantial damage.
In such cases, concrete retaining walls are often the preferred choice to provide an impenetrable barrier to wind, rain, and other damaging elements. Often, they are used in non-residential settings such as solar farms and business facilities. The advantage of retaining walls is that they are durable and do not need to be replaced or repaired for several decades. These walls are made of strong material designed to resist bad weather and stop soil erosion. Once you install them, your solar PV system will be protected forever.
Weather Protection
Lightning strikes on a solar panel on the roof can cause serious damage in extreme weather conditions. Businesses and homeowners can protect solar panels from lightning damage by installing lightning rods. When installing any PV system on the grounds, adequate grounding is required as lightning can strike the ground, and this can cause damage to both the panels and their owners.
If lightning strikes anywhere near your solar panels, its impact may damage them. There is a possibility that harm can be caused even without a direct strike. Through indirect strikes, high voltage is introduced into the system, leading to the combustion of certain components. Ascertain that your installed rods are sufficient to hold up your entire solar panel system.
There are times when strong winds can also damage solar panels. An anchoring system is used to keep the solar panels in place. It keeps the panels in place during storms and bad weather.
However, every solar panel has this anchoring system, but still, it is always an ideal choice to get the entire equipment checked by the solar panel experts to be on the safer side. It is also possible to upgrade the anchoring system or introduce new components to insert greater protection.
Waterproofing of panels
The seals on solar panels are the same as those on windows and doors. Seals prevent rainwater from entering during rainy weather. Over time, this seal may wear out, and water may enter the system, causing a short circuit. You might not know it’s a problem until the panels stop working.
Sealants are already on your solar panel, but you should periodically watch them. Examine and reseal any fading seals on your panels regularly to avoid short circuits. Sealants based on silicon are effective for repairing PV structures, and they can also be applied with ease. Seals between the roof and the panel may need to be replaced if they exhibit signs of wear and tear.
Conclusion
The weather indeed influences solar panels in Australia, but they are still worthwhile investments. In addition to meeting all industry standards, solar panels are mechanically and climatically tested before being installed. But even a well-built and mechanically tested solar panel can’t withstand all the factors. So as a consumer, all you have to do is protect your panels and keep them in good shape.
