Showing Your Solar Power System Some Love With Servicing
Your solar power system is a fantastic investment, quietly working away on your roof to slash those pesky electricity bills. But just like your car or any other hardworking piece of equipment, it needs a little TLC to keep it running smoothly and safely for years to come. Energy Safe Victoria, along with other industry experts, are encouraging solar owners to get their systems regularly serviced – and it's a message worth paying attention to.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through why solar system servicing is so important, how often you should schedule it, what to look for in a reliable service provider, and how Get3Quote can help you connect with the right professionals in your area.
Why is Solar System Servicing So Important?
It's easy to forget about your solar panels once they're installed and humming away. They silently convert sunlight into electricity, saving you money month after month. However, neglecting their upkeep can lead to some serious problems down the line. Here's why regular servicing is absolutely crucial:
- Safety First: Faulty components, especially DC isolators (we'll get to those in detail shortly), can pose a significant fire hazard. Regular checks can identify and rectify these issues before they become dangerous, protecting your home and family.
- Maximise Performance: Dust, debris, bird droppings, and even leaf litter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Servicing includes thorough cleaning and optimisation, ensuring you're getting the maximum power output possible from your system. Think of it as giving your panels a good sunbake!
- Extend the Lifespan: Regular maintenance can dramatically extend the lifespan of your solar power system, protecting your investment and ensuring you get the most bang for your buck over the long term.
- Warranty Compliance: Many manufacturers require regular servicing as part of their warranty terms. Skipping servicing could potentially void your warranty, leaving you on the hook for costly repairs.
- Early Issue Detection: A professional service can identify minor issues early on, preventing them from escalating into major, costly repairs. It's like getting a regular check-up at the doctor – preventative care is always better (and cheaper!) than reactive treatment.
The Lowdown on DC Isolators and Fire Safety
Energy Safe Victoria's campaign specifically highlights the potential risks associated with faulty DC isolators. These devices, ironically, were initially made mandatory in Australia as a safety measure. However, they've also been identified as a common cause of solar installation fires. Since 2018, improvements have been made to reduce the safety risk in their design.
The best way to identify faults and avoid potential house fires is through regular servicing, especially for systems installed before 2018. Think of it as a safety check for your home.
Thankfully, rooftop DC isolators are no longer mandatory for new installations (assuming certain conditions are met), but it's still vitally important to ensure existing ones are in good working order. A qualified solar technician can assess their condition and recommend any necessary replacements or repairs.
How Often Should You Service Your Solar Power System?
Opinions vary slightly on how frequently you should service your solar system. Energy Safe Victoria recommends a professional service every 2 years. SolarQuotes founder Finn Peacock suggests every 5 years, provided you have a high-quality installation. However, the ideal frequency also depends on several factors:
- Installation Quality: A poorly installed system may require more frequent checks to identify and address any underlying issues.
- Environmental Conditions: If you live in a dusty, coastal, or heavily polluted area, your panels may need more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
- System Age: Older systems may require more attention and more frequent servicing to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
In some states/territories, including South Australia, the ACT, and Victoria, system testing is required every five years by your DNSP (Distributed Network Service Provider). Make sure you're aware of the regulations in your area.
Buying a Second-Hand Home with Solar Panels? Just like getting a pre-purchase inspection on a used car, it's wise to get a comprehensive solar system inspection if you've purchased a home with existing panels, especially if the service history is unclear or non-existent. This will give you peace of mind and ensure the system is safe and performing as expected.
What Does a Solar System Service Include?
A comprehensive solar system service should include the following:
- Visual Inspection: A thorough check for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or loose connections. This includes examining the panels, mounting hardware, wiring, and all other visible components.
- Electrical Testing: Testing voltage, current, and insulation resistance to identify any electrical faults or potential hazards. This is a critical step in ensuring the safety and integrity of the system.
- Inverter Check: Ensuring the inverter is functioning correctly and efficiently. The inverter is the heart of your solar system, so its proper operation is essential.
- DC Isolator Inspection: Checking the condition and operation of DC isolators, as discussed earlier. This is a key safety measure.
- Panel Cleaning: Removing dirt, dust, and debris from the panels to maximise their energy production.
- Performance Analysis: Comparing the system's current performance to its original specifications to identify any potential performance degradation.
- Report and Recommendations: Providing a detailed report of the service, including any findings, recommendations for repairs or upgrades, and an assessment of the system's overall condition.
Finding a Reputable Solar Service Provider
Choosing the right service provider is crucial to ensure a thorough and reliable service. Here's what to look for:
- Accreditation: Ensure the company and its technicians are properly accredited and licensed by the Clean Energy Council (CEC). This is a non-negotiable requirement.
- Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record in solar system servicing and repairs. Ask about their experience and the types of systems they've worked on.
- Insurance: Verify that the company has adequate insurance coverage, including public liability insurance. This protects you in case of any accidents or damage during the service.
- Reputation: Check online reviews and ask for references from previous customers. A good reputation is a sign of a reliable and trustworthy service provider.
- Comprehensive Service: Make sure they offer a thorough service that covers all the key areas mentioned above. Don't settle for a basic cleaning service that doesn't address the underlying issues.
- Transparent Pricing: Get a clear and detailed quote upfront, outlining exactly what's included in the service and any potential additional costs.
You can use Get3Quote to easily compare quotes from multiple reputable solar service providers in your area, making it easier to find the best value for your money.
Beware of Rogue Operators
Energy Safe Victoria warns against companies that offer only panel cleaning services, claiming to be full-service providers. While cleaning is important, it's only one aspect of a comprehensive service. Be wary of companies that pressure you into unnecessary cleaning or offer suspiciously low prices. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Keep in mind that panels tilted more than 10 degrees typically self-clean with rain, so excessive cleaning may not be necessary.
DIY Solar Panel Cleaning: Is It a Good Idea?
While you can certainly hose down your panels to remove loose dirt and debris, it's generally best to leave more thorough cleaning to the professionals. They have the right equipment, expertise, and safety training to avoid damaging the panels.
Here's why DIY cleaning can be risky:
- Scratching: Using abrasive cleaners or cloths can scratch the panel surface, reducing their efficiency.
- Water Damage: High-pressure cleaning can damage the panels' seals, leading to water ingress and potential electrical problems.
- Safety: Working on a roof can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced individuals. Leave it to the professionals who have the proper safety equipment and training.
Cost of Solar System Servicing
The cost of a solar system service varies depending on the size and complexity of the system, as well as the service provider. However, it's a worthwhile investment to ensure the safety and performance of your system. Think of it as preventative maintenance that can save you money in the long run.
Ready to Show Your Solar System Some Love?
Don't wait until something goes wrong. Regular servicing is the key to keeping your solar power system running efficiently, safely, and reliably for years to come. By investing in regular maintenance, you're protecting your investment and ensuring you get the most out of your solar panels.
Find trusted local solar professionals for servicing, repairs, and maintenance with Get3Quote today! Get 3 Free Quotes from Local Solar Experts and ensure your solar system is running at its best. Find a local professional now!