In recent years, numerous photovoltaic systems have been installed on private rooftops across Europe. With the decline in demand for new systems and the large number of existing systems, the maintenance of these systems is increasingly coming into focus. In particular, as many systems were installed by companies that are no longer active on the market, regular maintenance is essential to ensure the performance and safety of the systems.

Why is maintenance important for photovoltaic systems?

Although photovoltaic systems are considered low-maintenance, various factors can affect their performance or pose safety risks. Regular inspections help to identify and rectify potential problems at an early stage, which can extend the service life of the system and minimize yield losses.

Typical sources of faults in photovoltaic systems

The following typical sources of faults can be identified during maintenance:

1. Incorrect installation of the substructure

Incorrectly installed roof hooks or mounting rails can damage the roof in the long term and, in extreme cases, cause the entire system to slide off. In addition, improperly fastened components can penetrate the roof cladding and cause water damage.

2. Improperly fastened photovoltaic modules

If installation specifications are not adhered to, there is a risk of modules coming loose in strong winds. This poses a considerable safety risk for people and property in the vicinity.

3. Loose or incorrectly tightened module clamps

Inadequately fastened module clamps can give way under wind loads, which can lead to damage to the system and potential hazards for the surroundings.

4. Inadequate cable routing and incorrect installation of solar connectors

Unprotected cables, cables and solar connectors lying on the roof cladding, bending radii that are too tight or sharp edges can lead to damage. This can cause insulation faults or electric arcs, which can trigger fires.

5. Inverters and storage units in unsuitable locations

Installing inverters or storage systems in unsuitable environments - for example on flammable surfaces, in poorly ventilated cabinets or damp rooms - can damage the devices and increase the risk of fire.

6. Excessive soiling of the solar modules

Deposits such as dust, pollen or bird droppings can significantly reduce the performance of the modules. Regular cleaning is particularly recommended for flat pitched roofs.

7. Inadequate inspection of the roof statics

If a professional structural assessment of the roof has not been carried out prior to installation, structural damage may occur - especially if there is a high additional load due to snow or wind.

8. Missing or incomplete system documentation

Without complete technical documentation, subsequent maintenance and repair work is more difficult. The lack of documentation can also be problematic in the event of warranty or insurance claims.

9. Animal damage to modules and cables

Birds, martens or other animals can damage modules and cables. This can lead to insulation faults or short circuits. Special protective measures such as protective grids or rodent protection help to prevent this damage.

10. Damage due to snow pressure

Snow pressure can have a negative effect on solar modules, especially after winters with heavy snowfall. Excessive loads or already damaged mounting systems can lead to glass breakage or deformation of the module frames. Sliding snow can also damage cables or loosen modules. A regular visual inspection after the winter helps to detect such damage in good time.

11. Hail and storm damage

Strong storms with wind and hail can cause damage to modules from flying objects such as branches and roof tiles, but also from hailstones. Such impacts can lead to glass breakage, microcracks or mechanical deformations that impair the performance of the system.

12. Damage caused by lightning and overvoltage

Lightning strikes, both direct and indirect, can cause considerable damage to photovoltaic systems. The resulting overvoltages can damage or destroy solar modules, inverters and storage systems. Effective lightning and surge protection is therefore essential to prevent such damage.

13. Damage due to module ageing

Over time, photovoltaic modules can show signs of ageing such as delamination (detachment of layers), yellowing or glass breakage. These changes can reduce the efficiency of the modules and increase the risk of further damage. Regular inspections help to detect such signs of ageing at an early stage and take appropriate measures.

SecondSol as a reliable partner for spare parts

SecondSol offers a reliable platform for operators of photovoltaic systems who do not have access to their original installer or who need spare parts. As a leading marketplace in the photovoltaic sector, SecondSol provides a wide range of spare parts that are offered either directly by SecondSol or by other users. This enables installers and system operators to find the components they need quickly and easily - whether solar modules, inverters, storage systems or mounting accessories.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of photovoltaic systems is essential to ensure their performance and safety. Given the large number of systems installed and the potential risks posed by installation errors or signs of wear, both installers and operators should take the need for maintenance seriously. Platforms such as SecondSol also provide a valuable resource for sourcing required spare parts quickly and efficiently - independent of the original installation company.