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Solar Panel Problems – Proper Construction can Avoid Faults Due to Moisture Within the Panel
Solar power can provide clean electrical energy. With no moving parts and what has become a tried and tested technology, while the sun shines, you have “free” electricity. The cost and efficiency continues to fall, making it an energy source for many, particularly with government rebates on installations.
However, as rreliable as solar systems are, there are problems that can develop over time. Faults can occur in either the panels or the equipment needed to store and control the power you generate. Obviously, commercially available Photovoltaic (PV) systems come with the confidence of consistent construction and testing and with a guarantee on their construction and power output.
Typically, a solar system will have a working lofe of over 20 years. Commercial panels ore the choice when it comes to a large installation to supply a whole home or business. Such guarantees are often necessary to be eliable for rebates and insurance cover.
While solar systems are reliable, problems can develop as components fail or are damaged. Most problems are seen in smaller systems or DIY constructions where the wiring or installation has been not properly carried out.
The majority of faults develop from electrical problems somewhere along the power supply chain from the panel to the supply system. While problems can happen with controllers, inverters and other switchgear, these are usually obvious. Faults with wiring from animals damaging wires or unprotected connections are more common. While unusual, fires have been caused by a solar panel, likely through a short circuit.
Moisture in electrical systems are a big problem and this is no different with a solar system. Moisture can condense on the inner surface of your panel,, cutting down sunlight and reducing the power output. But more seriously, this moisture can cause shorts and corrosion of the connections within the panel that can be very difficult to repair. The corrosion causes two problems. It firstly increases resistance at the solar cell and reduces current flow. This resistance also causes heating which further reduces the solar cells efficiency. This has a knock-on effect that nearby cells also are affected by the heating and current flow. If the panel has a highly rated power output and resistance is great enough, there is a real potential for serious damage to the panel and your equipment. Any short circuit is a potential fire hazard.
If you detect a slow unexplained deterioration in power output, its a fairly good bet that there is a build up of corrosion somewhere in the system, either at the batteries, the wiring or within a panel. Checking the panel output, and any heat buildup will lead you to the problem. If a panels output id down, check each cell for a “hot” cell and usually you will find corroded contacts.
The lesson is, if you intend to build a DIY solar panel, you need to construct a container that is watertight. Unless you live in very dry climates, a Plexiglas or sealed aluminum casing and silicon sealing is advised. A partial solution may be to use of a packet of silica gel attached inside the panel may help absorb the small amount of residual moisture in the panels internal air. You are well advised to use a comprehensive guide if you are considering building a solar panel to ensure it is properly constructed and safe.
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Providing information to online users interested in living a lifestyle using ecologically sound solutions. Visit SolarDIYTips for information solar DIY solutions. Helping people find simple Solar energy information and Eco-Friendly solutions to everyday living.
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