Solar Array
36
PCMS Operations, Safety & Maintenance V3.0
Ver-Mac 2018
11.3
Care and Cleaning of Solar Panels
While solar panels generally require little maintenance beyond thorough cleaning, lack
of maintenance eventually affects the batteries and the performance of the PCMS unit.
NOTE
Do not rely exclusively on the rain to clean the panel.
Cleaning Procedure for Solar Panels
1.
Remove all accumulated dust and debris (in winter any heavy snow)
2.
Use mild detergent to remove any oil or grease deposits
3.
Rinse surface thoroughly. Be sure to remove all dirt and detergent residue
11.4
Replacement Solar Panels
Replacement solar panels for the solar array must be
the same wattage
and ideally,
from the same manufacturer as the rest of the array.
11.5
Solar Array Periodic Maintenance
Item
Function Required
Before Every
Use
3 Months
12
Months
Solar panels
Glass Surface
Tilt and clean upper glass surface using
plenty of water
•
•
In winter remove excess snow or ice build-
up as soon as possible
Sunlight usually melts any light snow or ice
•
•
Tilt and inspect for damage
•
•
•
Support Structure
Panel Frame
Check for corrosion, loose connections
•
Pivoting Jack
Check for rust and corrosion Lubricate
inner ram and turn mechanism
•
Panel Brake
Check for rust and corrosion
Lubricate lightly
•
•
Make sure cotter safety pin is in position
•
•
Adjustment
Screw
Adjust when necessary
•
Transport
Cradles
Inspect for proper support
Replace cushions as needed
•
•
