Your solar power system requires little maintenance, as there are no moving parts to fail or adjust. For your safety, we do not recommend that you attempt any self-service unless you are suitably qualified.
The solar panels work best when clean. Regular rainfall or washing with a hose will do the job. If they do become excessively soiled they can be cleaned with cold water. It is recommended to keep the panels clean from a build-up of dust, dirt and mold, and to check that the solar panels have minimal shading from new vegetation or surrounding objects.
We recommend using a Solar Panels Cleaning service for safety.
We strongly recommend that you do not climb onto the roof, unless you are qualified and trained in occupational health and safety procedures.
Plant and tree growth that can cause shading at different times of the year should be monitored and dealt with. Likewise, leaves and other debris coming to rest on the solar modules should be removed.
If you notice your system is not operating correctly, please contact us immediately and we will send a technician to resolve the problem. If you need to shut down the system, please follow these steps in the “Solar Power System Shutdown Procedure”
1. Switch off the Solar Supply Main Switch in the main switchboard or meter box.
2. Switch off the AC isolator (if supplied), and then the DC isolator adjacent to the inverter.
Following these steps will isolate the solar array. To switch it back on, you simply reverse the procedure.
Always remember that your system will be generating electricity during daylight hours and care should always be taken to eliminate the risk of electric shock. Refer to the OPERATING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS in the Owner’s Manual for more information.
The following maintenance schedule is recommended
Weekly | 6 Monthly | Yearly |
Check to make sure the inverter is working correctly by checking Green LED is on. Also check the front LCD display is working correctly. | Check for vegetation growth that may be shading the solar panels, and cut back accordingly. | Visually check that the PV array framing and fastening screws are ridgid and have no corrosion or damage. |
Check the inverter operation (e-today, e-total etc. depending on your inverter) should be consistent with the prevailing weather conditions and season. | Visually inspect the panels for any damage. | Visually inspect the inverter and isolator box for any loose connections. |
Clean the solar panels surface (if required) with water and a mop or soft brush. We recommend the use of experienced roofers when cleaning panels on the roof | Carefully clean the outside of the inverter with a clean dry cloth or rag. |
DANGER: The inverter operates at very high voltages. There is risk of fatal electrical shock if the inverter is opened during use. The inverter must only be opened by Negawatts Electrical technicians for either maintenance or modifications.
DANGER: Do not touch or pull any of the electrical wiring cables around the inverter. Do not remove the front cover of the inverter. Do not switch the system on if there are damaged or exposed electrical cables due to risk of fatal electrical shock!
DANGER: Do not touch or come in contact with a solar module if it is found to be broken or has cracked glass, as this could result in a fatal electrical shock.
WARNING: We recommend using professional services when working at heights. It is recommended that only qualified personnel who are trained and hold current certification attempt maintenance activities on roofs due to the potential hazards when working at heights.