How much maintenance does a PV system require?
Very little. At some point, some part of your system will fail and need to be replaced. But our solar power systems are very durable and we use only the best, high-quality products, like Outback and Fronius and Canadian Solar and Solartech Power.
Your investment is protected in most cases by warranties that go all the way up to 25 years for materials and performance. Most components will last a decade and beyond before needing to be replaced due failure. The beauty of a solar power system is that the only moving parts are electrons. There's nothing mechanical to wear out. So, usually only the effects of time on solid state products will make them fail. Your system should last 25 years if you never replaced a single component. However, if you can test your system, or have it tested, for components that may be going bad, a solar module for instance, you can replace them as needed. So, conceivably, with equipment maintenance and replacements, your system could last for decades. Indeed, I've heard there are panels out there from the 70s that are still putting out current. And today's systems are much more advanced and much more efficient.
So, your investment in the equipment is justified since the typical system pays for itself, with rebates and incentives, in 5-8 years. Every year after that is free electricity produced for your consumption.
The other side of maintenance is ensuring that your solar panels are able to absorb as much of the sun's energy as they can. This means that they will need to be cleaned occasionally. Over time, dust particulates, pollen, dead insects, and bird droppings will accrue, reducing the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cell. You can either have them professionally cleaned from time to time or you can clean them yourself.
Tips for cleaning solar panels:
Unless the panels are really dirty, there will rarely be a need to even bother as a good rain will usually clean them right up, and do so with soft water, not the hard water that may be coming from your hose which may contain minerals that will settle out on the panels when they dry.
- Shut down the system before cleaning.
- If possible, clean the panels from the ground.
- Use a squeegee and a good quality soft brush and a garden hose with spray nozzle. Use only soft, non-metalic tools in contact with the panels. Soap probably isn't necessary, water will usually suffice. If you choose to use soap, use a liquid detergent, not something abrasive like Ajax.
- If you have to leave the ground, do so only if you know what you are doing and can do so safely. Otherwise, hire someone who does panel cleaning professionally.
- Don't clean the panels in the middle of a hot, sunny day. Early morning is best.
Reference: Enegy Matters
Lastly, battery maintenance is important. If you have a flooded cell battery you should check your water levels once a month or so. If you have a sealed batteries, however, they will never need maintenance.