The beaches are drenched in sun, the palm trees sway in the wind, and there is warmth all year round. Florida is a popular tourist destination for its sunny disposition, but it’s also a hotspot for solar energy. Solar panel maintenance is a must for any homeowner with solar panels. Here are some tips to ensure your solar panels perform optimally in Florida’s climate.
Regular Cleaning is Key
Florida’s climate can cause dust, bird droppings, and salt mist to accumulate on your panels. Every couple of months, a simple rinse with a garden hose can remove most debris. Use soapy water with a soft-bristle brush to remove stubborn dirt, and rinse thoroughly afterward.
Check for Damage
Inspect your panels after Florida’s summer storms or hurricane season for any damage. Look for cracks, loose connectors, or other anomalies. If you find any damage, contact your solar provider for guidance.
Monitor Shade Patterns
As trees grow and new buildings are constructed, they can cast new shadows on your panels. Check periodically to see if new shadows fall on your panels, especially during peak sunlight hours. Trim any branches that may be blocking sunlight.
Check Tilt Position and Alignment
The optimal tilt angle for fixed solar panels in Florida should be around 25 degrees. If you have adjustable panels, ensure they are set at this angle to maximize energy absorption. Consult your solar installer if you are unsure.
Inspect Inverters
Inverters should have a green light indicating they are functioning correctly. They convert direct current (DC) from your solar panels to alternating current (AC) for your home. If the light is not green, your panels may not be converting sunlight efficiently. Contact your provider for assistance.
Watch for Corrosion
Due to the salt mist, solar panels in Florida’s coastal regions can experience corrosion issues. Check mounting structures and panels for signs of corrosion, especially if you are near the coast.
Schedule Professional Inspections
While DIY solar panel maintenance is possible, it’s best to have a professional inspect your panels annually. A trained eye can spot potential problems and ensure your system is running efficiently.
Update Monitoring Software
Most solar systems include monitoring software that tracks energy production. Update this software regularly to monitor your system and correct any anomalies.
Solar panels can be a great investment, particularly in Florida. As with any investment, it’s important to maintain and care for your solar panels to get the best performance. By following these tips, Florida homeowners can enjoy the sunshine both in their energy bills and outside.
This post was written by a professional at EHS. Efficient Home Services of St. Petersburg FL is a solar energy company offering a variety of services. At Efficient Home Services of Florida, our mission is to save you money on your solar panel maintenance Florida. No other home energy company serving Florida offers the range of cost-saving solutions that we do. Whereas other businesses might focus on one component of a home’s energy use, such as solar panel installation or HVAC unit installation, EHS provides services across the spectrum to address every aspect of your home’s energy inefficiencies. We are a team of knowledgeable professionals who banded together to give homeowners what other companies promised but could not deliver – real relief from high electric bills.