Monitoring
The purpose of a solar panel service is to check that the system is still in good condition and all elements are functioning as they should be. This will usually include a visual inspection, and an electrical inspection to check the electrical integrity of the panels.
The Australian Government’s Clean Energy Regulator (CER) advises a good service should make sure that:
- solar panels are clean, secure and free of defects
- no parts have deteriorated/corroded
- vents are free of debris
- switches don’t have any defects
- wiring hasn’t been damaged or hasn’t deteriorated
- electricals are checked to make sure all components are operating as intended
- fittings and cables are securely attached
- the inverter display panel for recorded faults is working
- access to the isolator switches hasn’t been impeded
- emergency procedures for shutdown and isolation are clearly displayed.
One of the most important things that technicians will be checking for during a service is to see if water has got into your DC isolator.
This issue has been identified by the CER as the most common safety risk associated with PV solar systems.
