“You have paid for an annual inspection and service which your installer has failed to provide…”
How many of you can relate to receiving one of these cold calls? How do they even know you have solar PV panels? How did they get your number? If anyone other than your certified solar PV installer is calling you about the panels they didn’t install, they’re probably a scam! Scammers use various methods to obtain phone numbers, and many of these methods involve exploiting information that is publicly available or accessible through various channels. Rest assured, there will never be any cold-calling or hard-sell from us, and we never pass on our customers’ personal details to third-parties.
Do I need an inspection or service on my solar PV panels?
Solar panels typically last between 25 to 30 years, although they will often still work after this time period, just producing electricity at a lower rate. The panels will often have the longest warranty in the solar PV system and the period of time that they last for is highly dependent on the manufacturer, installer and owner. Any servicing you undertake is entirely at your own discretion, and our installers can talk you through the various options at the time of installation.
What maintenance do my solar PV panels need?
Solar PV panels are ultra low maintenance sources of renewable energy, and can add value to your home as well as saving money on energy bills. However, forget the scammers, there’s some servicing that can be carried out either by yourself or certified installers such as Carter Electrical Installation Ltd to get the most out of your panels:
- Regular Cleaning: dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on the surface of solar panels, reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning, typically with water and a soft brush or sponge, helps maintain peak performance. Carter Electrical Installation Ltd offers this service, along with all the safety gear so you don’t have to get up on your roof!
- Visual Inspection: periodically inspect the solar panels for any visible damage, such as cracks or physical wear. Damaged panels may need to be replaced to maintain the overall efficiency of the system.
- Tree Trimming: if there are nearby trees that could cast shadows on the solar panels, trimming or removing branches may be necessary to ensure maximum sunlight exposure. Tree trimming also helps to reduce the build up of leaves throughout the autumn and winter months.
- Monitoring System Performance: many modern solar installations come with monitoring systems that allow homeowners to track the performance of their panels. Monitoring can help identify any issues with individual panels or the system as a whole.
- Inverter Maintenance: inverters, which convert power from the panels into power for use in your home, may require occasional maintenance or replacement. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific type of inverter in your system.
- Professional Inspections: while routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner, it’s advisable to have a professional inspection at least once a year. Professionals can identify potential issues that may not be obvious to the homeowner.
- Warranty Compliance: adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines and any warranty requirements is essential. Some warranties may require regular professional maintenance to remain valid.
At Carter Electrical we offer installation and complete servicing of Solar PV panels for your home or business. Additionally, we will also come out and look at your panels even if they weren’t fitted by us!
Remember, legitimate companies typically do not engage in unsolicited calls that pressure you into immediate action. If the caller is persistent, high-pressure, or unwilling to provide verifiable information, it may be a scam. Always prioritise your safety and the security of your personal information, and politely ask these cold-callers to take you off their database, and ensure you block their number.