Solar panels are undoubtedly an excellent investment as they provide a wide range of benefits for residential homes and commercial properties. Since it relies on sunlight and not on the grid, solar panels protect the environment and natural resources. Plus, it requires very little maintenance and is also cheaper and cheaper. Despite the praise given to solar energy, it can create some problems that may jeopardize its efficiency. Here are some of the most common issues with a solar powered home. 1. Micro cracks Micro cracks are a common phenomenon in photovoltaic panels. Typically these are solar cell ruptures that are almost invisible and occur when producing PV modules. It can also occur during shipment or careless handling or mishandling during installation. Although their effects will not be noticed right away, they can be exacerbated by weather conditions and thermal stress. Large microcracks can damage solar cells, causing production losses. Any damage to the contact points of the solar cells can drastically affect the cells’ energy production. Since the cells are connected by series wires, they can affect the panel power output, causing the performance to decrease depending on the broken cells. Several connecting rods are attached to inexpensive panels to smooth out fine cracks. On average, fine cracks significantly affect the units, with a performance degradation of around 3%. Photo by sinovoltaics on pixabay 2. PID effects of “potential induced decomposition” also known as PID appear when there is voltage difference between grounding and panels. To enhance safety, solar panels are usually earthed. This sometimes causes dangerous variation and may partially discharge voltages in the primary power circuits. The effects of PID lead to a continuous decrease in performance as well as a rapid aging of the PV panel. PID also affects solar power stations and causes performance loss. PID effects have no known solutions. 3. This snail track contamination is the plate discoloration that appears after some products. Snail trips can be caused by the use of defective frontal silver pastes during manufacture. Defective silver pastes cause moisture to the inner plate, leading to an oxidation between the EVA, referred to as the packaging material, and the silver paste. In this process, hydrogen, acetic acid, and silver oxide are released. The effect of this process is a reaction that is fed to the panels from back to front, making the “helix path” visible. Helix pathways can also be caused by microscopic cracks and lead to performance degradation at a high percentage. 4. Panel Hotspots These are overloaded panel spots that get warm afterwards. Panel hot spots are the result of improperly welded connections and even defects in the structural solar cells. This results in a low impedance as the cells receive the generated energy. As a result of this effect, the voltage may rise, causing hot spots in cells and soldering points, resulting in a short circuit. Panel hotspots reduce the life and performance of the PV panels. Unfortunately, many solar collectors have hotspots that lead to replacements and even add operating costs to projects. 5. Rust and Internal Corrosion Internal rust or corrosion occurs when there is moisture penetration into the PV panels. It is worth noting that the panels must be waterproof and air resistant at all times. Panel components such as the back plate, solar cells, and glass layers must be laminated under complete vacuum for this to work. However, if the process does not go well or is short, disassembly can take place. This is where the laminated components separate and cause bubbles and moisture. Moisture causes corrosion of the PV panels, and it appears like black spots on the panel. It usually starts at the edges of the panels and spreads everywhere depending on its severity. Metal corrosion on conductive parts can greatly reduce production. Deficiency will occur depending on the sizes of the dark, eroded areas. Frameless PV panels, as well as glass panels, may also suffer from corrosion and moisture problems. If you suspect that your solar modules are experiencing the mentioned issues, you can ask a solar panel specialist to help you. They will identify and carry out tests to mitigate and solve problems. According to your energy blog, you need to know all the parts of a solar panel to help you mitigate the most common problems in a solar powered home, such as noise and corrosion. 6. Roof issues It is crucial to understand that solar energy systems should not affect the safety of your roof in any way. On the contrary, solar panels should serve as some extraordinary means of protecting surfaces. However, in some cases, PV panel installations can damage your ceilings. Make sure to check your roof regularly. If your roof appears to be compromised, you should immediately call the system installers to help you repair it or even replace the panels if they are not compatible with your roof 7. Little Birds Birds is beautiful and sound-sounding when you tweet on your roof in the morning as you wake up. However, these little birds can wreak havoc on the solar system on your roof. They tend to nest under the panels and thus prevent the system from working properly. If you notice that many birds have congregated on your roof, plan roofing solutions such as mesh wires or nails to mitigate them from destroying your roof and solar panels. Photo by Lidovky on Pixabay 8. Electrical issues PV panels may stop working properly due to faulty wiring. Oxidation, corrosion, and loose connections can also interfere with the total electricity production. However, you should not plan to repair this wiring system if you are not an expert or an electrician. You might manipulate it and cost you extra money to fix it. Always plan to have licensed electricians to repair any electrical problems in your solar system. Bottom line After all, PV systems make for impressive workhorses. They provide a lot of benefits in a cost-effective and efficient way. However, it is not perfect, just like the other devices. They can be subject to tearing, corrosion, and manufacturing defects. Adjust yourself to your system’s performance as well as its output. If you notice some changes in the output and the solar system, immediately contact a specialist. However, you can mitigate these issues by regularly checking, cleaning and maintaining your system and seeking professional help when needed. Written by Christine Chapple.
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