Solar panels are getting more and more reliable every day, but there are still issues to be aware of. Do you know about the risks of these defects? If so, you might be able to help fix them before they become too late. In this blog post, we’re going to discuss some of the top solar panel defects and how to avoid them.
1. The Presence of Hotspots
- If your home has a lot of solar panels installed, it is likely that there are at least one or two spots where the panels don’t work as well as they should. These hotspots are caused by things like shading, wiring problems, and other issues. When a panel doesn’t perform as expected, it can cause your system to overheat, which could lead to serious damage if not addressed immediately.
Due to this problem, the solar panel can get damaged. It may even catch fire. This can happen when the panel overheats for extended periods of time. You need to make sure that you have the right tools and equipment to repair the panel. It is also important to note that the hotspots will only occur during sunny weather conditions.
The best solution for hot spots on the solar panel is to replace the whole panel with another one. However, this isn’t always possible. For instance, if the panel is already attached to the roof, then replacing the entire panel will be difficult. In this case, the manufacturer needs to consider removing the panel and installing a new one.
2. Contamination By Snail Trail and Oxidation Which Take Place in the Panels
- The defect is caused by the accumulation of moisture inside the solar panel. As the water accumulates, it causes the insulation layer to expand. This expansion leads to cracks in the panels. Eventually, the panel gets destroyed. Oxidation of the panels takes place when the defective silver plates come into contact with oxygen. The process is seriously detrimental to the overall status of the solar panels.
The serious consequence that is associated with the situation is that it can lead to a fire. To prevent such situations, you should clean the solar panel regularly. You should also use a dehumidifier to remove any excess moisture. Other than reducing the level of performance of the panel, enhanced oxidation leads to reduced lifespan of the panel.
The best channel which can be considered in handling the process is to install a quality solar panel cleaning machine. It helps you to clean all parts of the panel effectively. Further, to prevent oxidation levels, you should keep the panels in a place where the solver plates do not mix with oxygen and critical sunlight levels.
3. Potential Induced Degradation (PID) Effect
- The defect is caused via the PID effect. It happens due to the exposure of the solar panel to high temperatures. It is important to note that the effect is only temporary. It lasts for a short period of time. Afterward, the panel returns to its original state.
The PID effect affects the solar panel by causing it to lose efficiency. It also makes the panel susceptible to corrosion. As a result, one may experience a decline in performance.
To address the issue, you need to keep the temperature under control. You should also ensure that the panel remains dry. The best way to do this is to install a good ventilation system.
4. Internal corrosion of the panel or Delamination
- One of the primary entities which affects the functionality of solar panels is the presence of corrosion. The occurrence of corrosion is caused by various components which tend to counter the effectiveness that is associated with the panel. Delamination refers to the separation of layers within the solar panel. It occurs because of excessive heat. Hence, the presence of these issues tend to affect the comprehensive functioning of the panels.
- By considering the defect of delamination, the serious consequence which happens in such a situation is that it can cause damage to the panel. If not addressed properly, the panel might even burn down. In this case, one might be unable to make use of the panel in the future.
The viable solution which can be applied to the delamination defect is to get rid of the problem. You should first identify the source of the problem. Once identified, you need to eliminate the source of the problem as soon as possible. In some cases, the defect can be persistent and this will require one to change the entire solar panel.
5. Micro-Cracks
- The occurrence of the cracks in the solar panels is an example of a defects which affect the component. These cracks are very small in size. They cannot be seen easily. However, they have an impact on the overall functionality of the panel. One of the reasons why the micro-cracks occur is due to the presence of dust particles. When there is dust present, it tends to accumulate at certain points. This accumulation causes the formation of the micro-cracks.
- There are different consequences which are associated with the micro-cracks and this includes the reduction in the overall efficiency of the panels. Further, the presence of the micro-crack has an adverse effect on the lifespan of the panel.
In order to avoid the occurrence of micro-cracks, it is imperative to maintain the panel in a clean condition. Also, it is essential to prevent any kind of dust from accumulating around the panel. The highlighted solutions are important because they work towards preventing the occurrence of the micro-cracking.
The five defects highlighted above are just some of the many defects which can affect the solar panel. It is important to come up with channels which eradicate the defects and ensure that the panel functions effectively.