Solar panels are a smart investment and like any valuable investment, they’re worth looking after. With over 1.5 million domestic solar installations now in the UK (and continuing to rise each year), it makes sense to make sure yours are working to their highest efficiency so you can enjoy maximum savings for years to come.
At SolarTherm UK, we’ve been installing and maintaining solar panels for over 15 years, so we know what can damage them – and the best ways to prevent it.
Get the Right Insurance Cover
Solar panels are a smart investment, and although they are around 80% cheaper than just 15 years ago, the kit can still be worth a lot of money. Most UK insurers consider roof top solar panels as a permanent fixture once installed, meaning they can be insured under your home insurance policy. Make sure your policy includes solar panels listed in your rebuild cost and that the policy includes theft, vandalism, fire and storm damage. You can also add accidental damage cover for extra protection if you want cover for unintentional one-off incidents.
Always Use a Professional Installer
A DIY solar installation may be appealing to save money (spoiler – it doesn’t) but unless you are an MCS-accredited installer as your day job it’s a risk you don’t want to take. Poor installation can lead to expensive repairs or even a reinstall, water damage, loose connections, blown fuses or even panels becoming loose.
At SolarTherm UK, all our installations are carried out by fully trained, MCS-accredited engineers, so your system is safe, compliant and set up for long-term performance. SolarTherm UK is also verified by EPVS for all our estimates and gives you HIES Protection for your investment.
Keep Your Panels Clean and Monitored
Being in the UK, rain will keep your panels clean to a reasonable level, but dirt, dust and bird droppings can still reduce efficiency over time. An annual professional clean will keep your panels in optimum working conditions.
Monitoring your system via your app will also help you spot early signs of wear and tear or any inefficiencies early on, substituting expensive replacements with more affordable repairs.
Protect Against Birds and Squirrels
Birds and squirrels love to nest under solar panels, which can cause damage to wiring and they can dislodge connectors, resulting in repairs. Birds will also leave droppings on your panels, which will increase without protection and affect your solar panel efficiency. Bird mesh is best fitted at installation to prevent needing to pay expensive scaffolding costs twice.
Trim Back Overhanging Trees
Trees can cause two problems – shade, which can reduce your systems output, especially if you have a traditional string inverter and falling branches, which can damage your glass panels. Overhanging branches also give birds somewhere to perch, leading to other dirty issues. For best practice, keep trees trimmed back and clear of your solar panels to maintain clear sunlight and reduce the risk of damage.
Install a Security System
While solar panel theft is rare, it does happen – and your solar PV system can be worth thousands. If you have a security system remember to add your solar onto it, alternatively if you don’t currently have a system look into having one installed if you live in an area where theft is a concern.
Protect Your Investment with SolarTherm UK
Your solar panels work hard for you every day to save you money on your bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Protecting them means you’ll enjoy the benefits for years to come, even exceeding the 30-year estimated lifespan.
At SolarTherm UK, we offer expert installation, maintenance and upgrades to keep your system safe, efficient and problem free.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke design package, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
