How to schedule maintenance checks for your PV system
A properly designed and installed PV system can be fault-free for several years. Like any other hardware, performing routine upkeep and inspecting PV system components will help guarantee its performance and reduce disruptions due to component failure. It is essential to know that AusPac Solar Pty Ltd or, if unavailable, another CEC-accredited installer should do all kinds of maintenance and repair work.
The maintenance details provided below are for knowledge purposes only. Other than visual inspections, please make sure that any maintenance on your system should be carried out by AusPac Solar Pty Ltd or, if unavailable, by another CEC-accredited organization only.
NOTE: Your system might need extra maintenance or repairs based on several factors. Please get in touch with AusPac Solar Pty Ltd for more information.
After cleaning all the modules, a visual inspection of the PV system can help find any defects, including cracks, discoloration, chips, etc. If any defects are discovered, their location should be noted in the logbook provided. This would help monitor the system and whether the defects affect the system output in the future. In most cases, the module output will not be affected, but such defects should not be ignored. If defects on the modules have worsened, you may inform and discuss them with AusPac Solar Pty Ltd.
Inspecting the array mounting frame should also be carried out during the inspection of the solar arrays and modules by certified personnel. Particular attention should be paid to items such as array mounting bolts. Checks should be carried out to ensure that the frame and modules are firmly secured.
WARNING: Your system modules are located on a roof, so there is a risk of falling. Ensure that the maintenance is only carried out by certified personnel wearing some form of fall protection equipment (e.g., harness or scaffolding).
Inverters generally require very little maintenance; however, please keep these points in mind when performing your checks:
- Keep the inverters clean and adequately covered. Minimize the possibility of dirt and dust being blown over the equipment - If required, clean it with a dry cloth.
- Make sure that insects or rodents do not infest the inverter system.
- Check inverter operation by monitoring the LED indicator, meter, or other displays on the inverter.
Battery systems are a serious safety risk if incorrectly installed or improperly maintained. It can lead to:
- electric shock
- flash burns
- fire explosion
- exposure to hazardous chemicals
It is important to avoid any clutter around the battery. Do not keep anything near or on top of the battery bank other than the safety equipment required to maintain the battery. Plenty of ventilation in the battery enclosure and the room must always be ensured.
WARNING: Before any maintenance is carried out on the battery system, it is vital that the battery storage is isolated from the system and shut down.
The specified battery shutdown procedure mentioned in this owner's manual or the sign installed on site must be followed.
During maintenance, some of the things that the certified personnel must ensure include the following:
- Battery system terminals should be free of dirt and electrolyte.
- Ensuring electrical terminals are set to correct torque settings.
- Ensuring battery accommodation integrity is maintained (e.g., not damaged, free from debris/ rubbish; and access is not obstructed)
- Ensure proper functioning of over-current and isolation devices.
- Check that charge and discharge parameters are correctly set.
- Ensure correct ventilation has been provided and is maintained.
- Check mechanical cable support and if protection is maintained.
Any maintenance conducted and discrepancies must be noted in the logbook provided.
