HOW TO CHECK IF A SOLAR SYSTEM IS WORKING?
Although we are at the beginning of autumn, the beautiful and sunny days of this period allow us to still use our solar systems.
Installing a solar system is a declaration of personal commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle that can reduce the environmental impact, saving significantly on the energy bill for many years.
Solar systems are, in fact, solutions designed to produce electricity continuously for over 20 years!
However, their energy production can be influenced by a variety of factors: power, product quality, weather, location, sun exposure and even the execution of the installation.
The components of the plant that are outdoors are exposed to the effects of atmospheric agents every day and can encounter problems of various kinds that can affect the actual production.
Therefore, checking if a solar panel system is working properly is a key component!
HOW TO CHECK THE OPERATION OF SOLAR PANELS
As we have mentioned, verifying the operation of the solar panels is an essential step in ensuring that the solar system is producing energy efficiently and that there are no problems or malfunctions.
Periodic verification allows you to identify and repair or replace any problems before they cause a significant loss of energy production. Not only that, this makes it possible to maximize the production of solar energy and make the most of the energy potential of the plant.
Therefore, how to check the functioning of the panels? Let’s find out together!
Panel operation: the photovoltaic inverter
The photovoltaic inverter is the engine of every system: it transforms the direct current constantly produced by the modules into common alternating current and feeds it into the domestic electricity grid, which can be used for the use of household appliances.
What you need to know is that a PV inverter can shut down for several reasons: the voltage can be too high or too low, or there can be problems with the circuit breaker.
Generally, the easiest and most immediate way to check for any malfunctions is to check the color of the light on the inverter: if it shows a green light then it works correctly, while if it shows a red light during daylight hours then there may be a system failure.
Panel operation: performance monitoring
By regularly checking how your solar panels are working, you can track the performance of your system and ensure that it is producing the expected energy. This way, if there are any drops in performance, you can take action promptly!
Check if the inverter readings match the solar production forecasts, as significant discrepancies could indicate a problem.
The daily measurement and recording of this data is essential because it allows you to create a history that can be referred to to verify the efficiency of the system and the consequent need for maintenance and controls.
Solar panel operation: energy bills
Another way to check if a solar system is operating is to check your energy billsto make sure they reflect the expected production of your solar panels. Again, any significant discrepancy should raise alarm bells and indicate the need for more thorough scrutiny.
Solar panel operation: maintenance
Control checks for correct operation, maintenance activities and periodic and scheduled cleaning of solar panels are fundamental operations to preserve the economic performance of the system itself over time, up to an increase in electricity production!
Look for obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, scratches, or broken panels, and make sure there are no lingering shadows covering the panels throughout the day by constantly monitoring the system for signs of deterioration.
In this case, the cleaning and maintenance of the solar panels play a very important role!
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR SOLAR PANELS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY
Regular maintenance and constant monitoring will help you ensure that your solar panel system is running efficiently. In case of any suspected problem or significant drop in performance, it is essential to consult a professional.
