DIY Solar Maintenance: Tips to Keep Your System at Peak Performance

You've made a smart investment in a KRATOX solar power system. To ensure it continues to operate at peak efficiency for years to come, a little bit of regular maintenance goes a long way. While our systems are designed to be robust and low-maintenance, these simple DIY tips can help you protect your investment and maximize your energy production.

1. Keep Your Panels Clean

This is the single most important maintenance task you can perform. Dust, dirt, leaves, and bird droppings can accumulate on your panels, reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches the solar cells and lowering your system's output.

• When to Clean: In Nigeria's dusty environment, especially during the dry season, a monthly cleaning is ideal. During the rainy season, the rain itself will do much of the work.
• How to Clean: The best time to clean is early in the morning or late in the evening when the panels are cool. Simply use a hose to rinse the panels. For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush or cloth with plain water. Never use harsh detergents or abrasive materials, as they can scratch the glass.
• Safety First: If your panels are not easily accessible, do not risk climbing on your roof. It's better to hire a professional cleaning service. KRATOX can recommend trusted partners.

2. Visually Inspect Your System

Once a month, take a quick walk around your system to check for any obvious issues.

• Panels: Look for any cracks, chips, or discoloration on the panels themselves.
• Wiring: Check that all wiring is secure and not frayed or being chewed on by pests. Ensure conduits are intact.
• Mounting Rack: Make sure all bolts on the mounting rack appear tight and that the structure is secure.
• Inverter & Batteries: Check your inverter's display for any error codes or warning lights. Keep the area around your inverter and batteries clean and free of debris to ensure proper ventilation.

3. Monitor Your Performance

Most modern inverter systems come with a monitoring app for your smartphone. Make it a habit to check your system's production weekly.

• Look for consistency. Is your system generating a similar amount of power on sunny days as it did in previous weeks?
• A sudden, unexplained drop in performance could indicate an issue that needs professional attention, such as a faulty panel or connection.

When to Call the Professionals

While these DIY tips are helpful, some things are best left to the experts. If you notice any error codes, damaged wiring, cracked panels, or a significant drop in performance that cleaning doesn't fix, contact the KRATOX support team immediately. Regular professional check-ups every 1-2 years are also a great way to ensure your system's long-term health.