Welcome to our latest series at Intermountain Wind & Solar: "You've Installed Solar! Now What?" In this series, we'll aim to answer basic questions about how to utilize, maintain and maximize your solar panel setup once it's been installed on your home or building.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to serve as one of the top solar companies across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, providing everything from solar panel installation to solar home battery installation and more. In this first entry in our series, we'll cover some basics on how to monitor and maintain your solar panels once they've been installed.

Monitoring Solar Panel Performance

Because solar panels are a major investment, it's naturally important to keep an eye on their performance levels. One of the major benefits of modern solar panels is how easy it is to monitor their production, allowing you to catch any potential issues early and ensure maximum efficiency and savings.

One of the best ways to monitor your solar panel performance is through a dedicated monitoring system that will show you exactly how much energy your panels are producing and using in real-time. These systems can also track historical data, providing insight into long-term trends that may impact performance.

There are a few types of solar panel monitoring systems available, including:

• Online portals: Many solar companies offer online portals that allow you to log in and track your energy production and usage. These portals can be accessed from your computer or mobile device.
• Monitoring apps: Some companies also offer mobile apps specifically for monitoring your solar panels. These can provide real-time data as well as historical trends.
• Remote monitoring: For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, some solar companies offer remote monitoring services where they will keep track of your system's performance on your behalf.

Now that we've gone over basic monitoring tips, let's also look at a few key areas when it comes to both short-term and long-term solar panel maintenance.

Basic Cleaning

One of the simplest but most important tasks for maintaining your solar panels is regular cleaning. Keeping your panels clean will ensure maximum sunlight absorption and therefore, optimal energy production.

It's generally recommended to clean your panels at least once a year, but more frequent cleaning may be necessary depending on factors like location and weather conditions. Most solar panel manufacturers recommend using only water and a soft cloth or sponge for basic cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Professional Inspections

In addition to regular cleaning, it's also important to have professional inspections of your solar panel system every few years. These inspections can identify any potential issues with the panels themselves or other components of the system, such as inverters or wiring.

During these inspections, professionals will also check for any damage or defects that may affect the performance of your panels. Catching these issues early can save you from costly repairs and ensure your system continues to operate efficiently.

Weather Event Checks

If your area experiences severe weather events, it's always a good idea to visually inspect your solar panels for any damage or debris. High winds, hail, and extreme temperatures can all potentially impact the performance of your panels.

If you do notice any damage or issues after a weather event, be sure to contact your solar company as soon as possible for further inspection and potential repairs.

Small Repairs if Needed

In some cases, you may need to make small repairs to your solar panels or other components of the system. This could include replacing a damaged panel, fixing faulty wiring, or repairing an inverter.

If you are not comfortable making these repairs yourself, it's always best to contact your solar company for assistance. Attempting DIY repairs could potentially void any warranties and cause further damage if not done correctly.

As you can see, there are several important factors to consider when monitoring and maintaining your solar panel system. Regular cleaning, professional inspections, and being mindful of potential weather events can all help ensure maximum efficiency and savings from your investment in solar energy.

Stay tuned for our next entry in this series, where we'll go over how to address solar panels that aren't producing the expected levels of energy, plus the rest of our series! At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help you make the most of your solar panel system for years to come. Contact us today with any questions or concerns about your solar setup around SLC, Utah or Boise, Idaho areas.