Solar Maintenance and Cleaning

Case Study: Solar Panel Maintenance and Cleaning for a Fire Station in Kent

At Climate Force Ltd, we recently completed a comprehensive solar panel maintenance and cleaning project for a fire station in Kent. This case study highlights the critical importance of regular solar PV system upkeep and demonstrates how collaboration with trusted partners, like Russell Trew Ltd, can result in successful outcomes.

Project Overview

The fire station’s solar PV system, installed on a low-angled roof, required decommissioning to facilitate the replacement of a leaking felt roof. Our scope of work included:

  1. Dismantling and cleaning the solar PV system.
  2. Partnering with Russell Trew Ltd, a commercial roofing specialist, to complete the roof refurbishment.
  3. Reinstalling the solar panels and ensuring optimal system performance.

Importance of Solar Panel Cleaning

Solar panels mounted at a low angle are particularly prone to accumulating dirt, debris, and bird droppings, which can significantly reduce their efficiency. Cleaning solar panels approximately once a year is essential to:

  • Maximize energy output: A clean panel surface ensures optimal sunlight absorption.
  • Prevent long-term damage: Dirt buildup can lead to hotspots and reduced lifespan.

Performance Monitoring and Inverter Checks

Regularly checking the performance of a solar PV system is crucial for identifying potential issues early. For this project, we conducted:

  • Performance assessments: Reviewing the system’s energy production over the past year to identify any anomalies.
  • Inverter diagnostics: Inspecting for error codes or signs of malfunction, as the inverter is a critical component that converts DC electricity to usable AC power.

Testing for Cable Degradation

Over time, solar panel DC string cables can degrade due to environmental exposure. Testing these cables is vital to:

  • Ensure safety and compliance with industry standards.
  • Maintain consistent power generation.

Our team performed thorough inspections and testing to guarantee the system’s integrity and efficiency after reinstallation.

Roof Refurbishment Collaboration

Working closely with Russell Trew Ltd, the fire station’s old felt roof was replaced with a durable new installation. This partnership ensured the project was completed seamlessly, with minimal disruption to the fire station’s operations.

Outcome

Upon completion, the solar PV system was reinstalled, cleaned, and tested to ensure peak performance. The fire station now benefits from:

  • A fully refurbished, leak-free roof.
  • An optimally functioning solar PV system, ready to deliver sustainable energy for years to come.

Conclusion

This project underscores the importance of regular solar panel maintenance, including cleaning, performance checks, and cable testing, especially for systems on low-angled roofs. By partnering with specialists like Russell Trew Ltd, we ensured the success of this critical refurbishment project.

If your commercial property requires solar PV maintenance or refurbishment, contact Climate Force Ltd to ensure your system operates at its best.