Maintenance Free Solar Panel Installation

Renewable energy is helping the UK tackle the rising threat of global warming; it is also helping millions of people cut down on their reliance of fossil fuels which can save hundreds of pounds whilst helping the environment. Solar energy is at the forefront of renewable energy methods and is seen as the best source in terms of investment for people; this is because solar panels allow owners to save and earn money whilst being virtually maintenance free. Solar panel installation is available in two different types; both have excellent benefits for generating free energy.

Types of solar panel energy sources

Solar panels are available as either solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal. Solar photovoltaic panels are used for generating electricity from daylight; this is done through electrons being released upon sunlight hitting a solar cell and producing an electric current. Many solar cells over a large area will produce enough electricity to power various appliances. Solar PV was developed originally for use in space to allow space craft to function over long periods; because of this the design needed to half a long life expectancy and be maintenance free. Solar panel installation on roofs and walls of homes or businesses benefit from PV technology, life expectancy is generally a minimum of 25 years which is covered by a warranty. Many systems that were installed as early as the 1960’s are still functioning today.

Solar thermal panels use the sunlight to create hot water; this done by either using a flat plate or evacuated tubes. The flat plate is designed to act like a radiator with an insulated panel covered by glass used to heat up water. This is incredibly easy to maintain but is not as efficient as the evacuated tubes system.

Evacuated tubes are designed to allow water to pass through tubes which are backed with an absorber plate; this allows the water to be heated to higher levels and more efficiently than the flat plate method. Evacuated tubes are also designed to be practically maintenance free; solar panel installation of this system is the more popular method as it can still generate warm water on overcast days.

What maintenance is needed for the panels?

Solar panels are designed to require very little maintenance; all that is generally required is to keep them clean and free of debris. If you house of business is surrounded by trees, these could become overgrown and may obstruct sunlight accessing the panels, in these circumstances trees should be trimmed back.

Solar panels systems will come with a full warranty, in most cases this will be for 25 years and will cover any problems should any occur. Replacement of the inverter which converts the light into power often has a life expectancy of 12-15 years and should be replaced free of charge by the installation company. The installation company should also make sure that the system, for you, remains maintenance free. Solar panel installation will be carried out to ensure the system last the full term of the warranty with little trouble.

 

 

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