Photovoltaic Service
A big cost advantage for photovoltaic energy systems over other alternative systems such as combustion engine or wind turbines, is low maintenance requirements.
For grid tie photovoltaic systems which are the most common, keeping the panel arrays clean and free of grime or dirt is mainly all that is required. This task can be accomplished manually or there are irrigation type systems which can be installed that spray down the panels routinely per programmed schedules. Although a very simple process one should remember that as long as the sun is available to the panels, there will be electron flow, sometimes at high voltage levels. Additionally maintaining proper clearance around associated equipment affording adequate ventilation is also important.
For stand alone systems which incorporate alternative sources such as generators or wind turbines as well as battery back up for storage, more technical task such as battery maintenance procedures have to be performed in addition to that required for grid tie systems. If combustion engine or wind turbines are part of your system, these require their own maintenance procedures which can be involved and generally should be performed by energy system specialist companies.
Panels can be hand washed or sprayers part of an automatic spray system can keep grime and dirt off the panels allowing higher efficiency levels. All necessary safety precautions should be used for whichever process is taken!
Maintenance is required for batteries used for energy storage usually associated with stand alone systems. Safety precautions should be used and it is highly recommended that only qualified, experienced individuals perform this maintenance.
Wind turbines are generators without a combustion engine, which means similar service for the stator and rotor assembly is necessary. Also the bearings and any gear drives require regular maintenance.
E & W Electrical, LLC
515 Meadowland Drive
Suite 100
Hillsborough, NC 27278
919-245-0200 (office)
919-245-0202 (facsimile)
888-919-5210 (toll free)
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