Q: Do the solar panels ever need to be cleaned?
A: It is estimated that dust that collects on the surface of the panels can reduce the system’s performance by as much as 7% annually. Winter rain can provide some amount of cleaning, but it is recommended that the panels be rinsed at least once a year in the high-producing summer months. More cleaning may be recommended depending on the location. Areas with a large amount of development and/or agriculture might require a more consistent cleaning.
We recommend rinsing the solar panels with standard garden hose and nozzle. The panels should be rinsed in the cool of the morning to avoid drastic temperature changes that could result in damaging the delicate cells.
Q: Will the system require any maintenance?
A: Your REC Solar system is comprised of highly reliable, technologically sophisticated components which are designed to maximize your production of clean solar power. No maintenance or adjustment should ever be required of any component, except the occasional washing of the solar panels.
Q: My neighborhood is experiencing a power outage and my solar inverter stopped working. Isn’t the system supposed to provide power in the event of an outage?
A: The inverter is designed to disconnect from the grid upon a power outage. This is done to protect the utility’s line-workers from injury while they are working on power lines in the area. In most cases, it is also a requirement of your state’s rebate program and essential in order to obtain the rebate for your system. On average, power outages are rare. Over the course of a year they will have a negligible impact on the return of investment for your solar system purchase.
Q: It’s very hot outside and my system doesn’t seem to be performing very well. In fact, it seemed to be doing better in the winter/spring. Is something wrong?
A: It seems counter-intuitive, but high temperatures actually decrease the solar panel’s ability to generate electricity. When the outside air temperature reaches 100ْ F or more, the surface of the solar panel can be as hot as 140ْ F. At this temperature, electricity output can decrease by as much as 20%.
During the design of your system, we have accounted for the impacts of heat and its impact on the overall kilowatt-hour (kWh) production.
Q. I think my system is underperforming. How can I tell?
A: The best way to determine if your system is underperforming is by tracking the kWh (kilowatt-hour) production. See the inverter manufacturer’s operating manual for direction on how to obtain this number from the inverter. Comparing the daily actual kWh production to the estimated kWh production will tell you how the system is performing.
Looking at the system’s instantaneous output (W or Watts) helps but due to several significant factors (e.g. irradiance, temperature, time of day, clouds), may not be a suitable way to determine the system’s health.
Q. Do you have a question for our service or customer care team?
A. If so, please contact the REC Solar Service Department at toll-free 1.888.OK.SOLAR (888.657.6527) or email
service@recsolar.com.
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