Solar Rooftop Preventive Maintenance Checklist

For residential and commercial buildings, rooftop solar energy systems are an excellent choice as they produce sustainable and clean energy. The current global solar energy capacity is 850.2 GW and solar energy provides 4.4% of the worldwide energy ¹. However, regular preventive maintenance is necessary to maximize the return on this investment and guarantee the system’s long-term operation. In this essay, we’re going to provide a thorough checklist for rooftop solar system preventative maintenance.

Why Preventive Maintenance is Crucial for Rooftop

Preventive maintenance assists in identifying and resolving possible problems before problems lead to system breakdowns or decreased energy output. You can make sure that your rooftop solar installation is effective, secure, and long-lasting by adhering to a regular maintenance plan. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of the U.S. Department of Energy, implementing a preventative maintenance routine for the solar panel system can extend the lifespan of your PV system to 40 years.

Monthly Inspection Checklist for Rooftop

1. Visual Inspection

Visual inspection refers to checking for visible damages, such as cracks, chips, or panel discoloration. Also, inspect the mounting equipment for any signs of wear and tear ³.

Solar Panels: Check for any physical damage, cracks, or signs of wear on the solar panels.

Wiring and Connectors: Look for evidence of damage, corrosion, or loose connections in all of the wiring and connectors.

Inverter: Verify that the inverter shows no error messages and is operating normally.

Racking and Mounting: Check the mounting system and the racks visually for any loose or broken parts.

Access Points: Check to make sure that any rooftop access points are secure and safe to use.

2. Vegetation Control

Trees and branches are the cause of shading on rooftop solar panels, which significantly reduce electricity generation. According to research, shading only one solar panel cell may drastically reduce the production of the entire panel’s solar energy by 50–80% ⁴

Tree Branches: Remove any branches that dangle over the solar panels that might create shadows, which would decrease energy output.

Leaves and Debris: Clear the panels of any dirt, leaves, or other material that has gathered. The best solar absorption is ensured by a clean surface.

Quarterly Inspection Checklist for Rooftop

1. Electrical Testing

Electrical testing is required to check the predicted output obtained from the solar panel. The power output of solar panels is measured using Standard Test Conditions (STC). Solar panels are examined under standard test conditions at 25 °C (77 °F) and 1,000 watts per square meter (1 kW/m2) of solar irradiation while the air mass is at 1.5 ⁵.

DC Voltage Check: Take a measurement of the solar panels’ DC voltage output and compare it to the manufacturer’s predicted values.

AC Voltage Check: Measure the AC voltage output of the inverter and ensure it matches the expected values.

Current Check: Check the DC and AC currents to make sure they adhere to the system’s requirements.

2. Cleaning

Solar panel cleaning can increase energy output by 5–10%, depending on how dirty the panels are. Your solar panels should be cleaned as soon as they become so dusty.

Solar Panels: Use a soft brush or specific solar panel cleaning equipment to clean the solar panels. If required, use purified water to wash away tough dirt or residue.

3. Inverter Inspection

The inverter transforms the DC energy produced by the solar panels into usable AC electricity for your house. So it needs to check the inverter is functioning properly and displaying the correct readings ³.

Cooling System: Inspect the correct operation and cleanliness of the cooling system on the inverter (if applicable).

Fans and Vents: A check has to be made to see if the inverter’s fans and vents are clear and unblocked.

Annual Inspection Checklist for Rooftop

1. Professional Inspection

Electrical Inspection: To evaluate the overall electrical safety of the system, schedule a yearly inspection by a licensed electrician.

Inverter Performance: Ask a professional to examine the inverter’s functioning and determine whether it needs any repair or replacement.

Racking and Mounting: Check the mounting and racking system’s stability. Keep an eye out for corrosion or structural deterioration indications.

Warranty Check: Make sure the warranties on the solar panels, inverters, and other system parts are still in effect by checking the warranties.

2. System Performance Monitoring

Most often, the solar panel performance monitoring is checked using the IEC 61724-1 standard. To find any notable departures from the predicted energy generation, examine the system’s past performance data. Any difficulties with performance must be looked into and resolved right away.

3. Documentation

Keep a thorough record of each maintenance procedure, including inspections and repairs, for future use and warranty claims.

For rooftop solar systems to operate effectively, dependably, and durably, regular preventative maintenance is essential. Solar system owners may quickly discover and resolve difficulties, increase energy output, and protect their investment by using the recommended monthly, quarterly, and yearly checklists. The safety and effectiveness of the system must also be guaranteed by engaging with competent experts for electrical inspections and inverter evaluations. Keep in mind that a well-maintained rooftop solar system helps both the environment and your wallet over time.

Originally published at futr.energy/knowledge