5 common solar pitfalls and how to avoid them
By Darren Lewis | 13-3-25
As the renewable energy sector grows, solar power continues to emerge as one of the most reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
However, with this growth comes the responsibility of maintaining these systems efficiently. Solar operations and maintenance (O&M) are crucial to ensuring optimal performance and longevity, but many owners and operators face challenges when it comes to effective solar system management.
At Solar Group Utilities, we’ve seen firsthand the importance of proper O&M in maximising the efficiency and lifespan of solar systems. To help you avoid costly mistakes, here are five common solar O&M pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Neglecting Regular Inspections
One of the biggest mistakes in solar O&M is neglecting to perform regular system inspections. Over time, dirt, debris, weather conditions, and natural wear and tear can degrade the performance of solar panels. Failing to inspect the system regularly means these issues can go unnoticed until they result in system downtime or inefficiency.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure that inspections are scheduled at regular intervals and that both visual and technical checks are performed. Look for damage to panels, issues with wiring, and signs of wear and tear on other system components. Regular maintenance can catch problems early, saving you from larger repair bills and minimising system downtime.
2. Inadequate Cleaning Practices
Solar panels are designed to withstand the elements, but dust, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on their surfaces, reducing energy efficiency. Many operators underestimate the importance of proper cleaning, assuming that rainwater will suffice to keep panels clear. However, in dry or dusty environments, this simply isn’t enough.
How to Avoid It:
Develop a cleaning schedule based on the environmental conditions in your area. In dry or dusty locations, more frequent cleaning may be required. Use appropriate tools and cleaning agents to avoid scratching or damaging the panels. Professional cleaning services can help maintain the panels in top condition, ensuring optimal energy production.
3. Ignoring Inverter Maintenance
Inverters are a crucial component of any solar system, converting the DC electricity generated by the panels into the AC electricity used in the grid. If the inverter malfunctions, the entire system could stop working. Unfortunately, many operators overlook regular inverter checks, assuming that once installed, they will work without issue.
How to Avoid It:
Make inverter inspections a regular part of your O&M plan. Monitor inverter performance closely and check for any error messages or faults. Inverters have a limited lifespan, so be proactive about replacing them when needed to prevent system downtime.
4. Overlooking Performance Monitoring
Without proper performance monitoring, it can be difficult to spot issues with your solar system until they escalate into bigger problems. Solar energy systems are complex, and detecting performance dips or faults requires real-time data tracking.
How to Avoid It:
Implement a robust performance monitoring system to track the efficiency of your solar panels and detect any drops in energy output. Many systems offer remote monitoring, which means you can keep an eye on performance from anywhere. By detecting performance anomalies early, you can address issues quickly and prevent costly damage.
5. Underestimating the Importance of Professional Expertise
While basic maintenance tasks can be handled in-house, complex issues with solar systems require professional expertise. Many operators try to cut costs by attempting DIY repairs or troubleshooting. However, this can lead to more severe problems down the line, potentially voiding warranties or causing further damage to the system.
How to Avoid It:
When in doubt, consult a professional solar technician with experience in O&M. While it may seem like an added expense, hiring experts ensures that your solar system is properly maintained, preventing costly repairs and increasing the system’s lifespan. Regular servicing by qualified professionals is a smart investment in the long-term efficiency and reliability of your solar installation.
Our conclusion?
Effective solar O&M is crucial to maximising the performance, lifespan, and cost-effectiveness of your solar system. By avoiding these common pitfalls, regular inspections, proper cleaning, inverter maintenance, performance monitoring, and professional expertise - you can ensure your solar investment continues to provide reliable, clean energy for years to come.
At Solar Group Utilities, we specialise in providing ground-mounted solar solutions with a strong emphasis on efficient operations and maintenance practices. With the right O&M strategy, you can unlock the full potential of your solar system while reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
