In the sunny embrace of Australia, where the sun shines bright and the breeze carries a hint of the ocean, your solar setup works tirelessly to harness that energy. However, the salty air and harsh weather conditions can pose a significant threat to the longevity and efficiency of your solar panels and equipment. At Sun Quotes, we understand the importance of protecting your investment. Here are five proactive ways to shield your solar setup from corrosion and ensure it keeps generating clean energy for years to come.
Protect Solar Setup from Corrosion
Understanding Corrosion
Corrosion typically affects metals, but these prevention strategies also apply to other materials, such as the plastic in junction boxes and cable insulation, or any materials exposed to harsh elements.
This article is not about complex studies on corrosion or technical jargon. If you want to learn more about corrosion HERE. Instead, it’s about practical steps that you, the average person, can take to protect your solar setup. The essence is simple: make smart decisions and take care of your equipment to ensure it serves you well.
So, without further delay, here are five ways to proactively protect your solar setup from corrosion.
1. Choose a Reputable Solar Installer
Selecting a high-quality solar installer is crucial for maximizing your system’s lifespan.
- Handle with Care
Corrosion can begin on day one if your solar panels aren’t handled correctly from the installer’s warehouse to your roof. A reputable installer understands that improper handling can cause micro-cracks, leading to moisture ingress and eventual deterioration or corrosion.
- Preventing Galvanic Corrosion
A good installer will take the time to read and understand the instructions that come with your hardware. They will use anti-seize compounds on fasteners or anti-corrosion coatings to prevent galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals. Ensuring all parts, such as insulating washers, are used correctly is crucial to preventing direct contact between different metals.
- Rust Prevention on Your Roof
Proper housekeeping on the roof is essential to minimize corrosion on a steel roof. Metal swarf from drilling holes for conduits and cable penetrations must be cleaned off immediately to prevent rust. Correctly placed, waterproof roof penetrations that avoid water pooling are also essential.
2. Position Hardware Away from Harsh Elements
While you can’t move your solar panels out of the sun and rain, you can position other components like inverters and batteries in more sheltered locations, such as garages. This reduces their exposure to elements and slows down the rate of degradation and corrosion.
3. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Keeping your solar system clean does more than just boost efficiency; it also helps spot and prevent corrosion. Whether you clean your panels yourself or hire a professional, it’s essential to remove dirt, grime, leaf litter, and bird droppings. This is also true for inverters and other components, which should be kept free from dirt, dust, and debris to prevent ventilation blockages and corrosion.
4. Schedule Regular Inspections
Regular system inspections, ideally every five years, are crucial. These inspections, often mandatory in some states, should be conducted by an accredited professional. They can identify and address issues you might miss, including early signs of corrosion, thereby extending your system’s lifespan.
By following these five proactive steps, you can protect your solar setup from corrosion and ensure it continues to operate efficiently for years to come.
Conclusion
At Sun Quotes, we’re not just about providing the best solar system quotes from nearby retailers; we’re about ensuring your solar investment stands the test of time. Protect your solar setup from corrosion and enjoy uninterrupted energy generation. Ready to fortify your solar future? Get your personalized solar quote today with Sun Quotes and let us connect you with top-tier retailers who prioritize quality and durability. Shine brighter with Sun Quotes!
