Auswell Energy talks Solar and the Sea: How your Solar System can combat corrosion.
Australians know how harsh our weather can be. Our sun bleaches paint and storms tug at our clothes lines, but if your property is in a coastal region, you have the added concern of sea mist and salty air causing unwanted corrosion and salt grime build-up.
So, what does this mean for your solar panels?
To get technical, the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) has standardised six levels of salt mist corrosion resistance. To be suitable for installation near the sea, solar panels need to meet a standard called IEC 61701.
For coastal regions, particularly for properties as close as 500m from the sea, Auswell Energy recommends that the solar panels installed meet the Level 6 IEC 61701 requirements.
But it’s not just the solar panels that need to be considered. The brackets and framing that house your solar panels and accessories also need to be made from corrosive resistant materials. Because Auswell Energy services the coastal regions of the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, and surrounds, we’re experts in helping you choose the best solar power system that will suit your unique needs.
So, if you do live by the coast, what can you do to maintain your solar panels, to help reduce salt grime build-up, and ensure your solar panels are giving you the best output they can?
Luckily, in most cases, a good rain will clean your solar panels for you. However, it’s a good idea to monitor and regularly check your solar system for signs of damage or corrosion a couple of times per year. If you notice some salt residue build-up on your solar panels, it may also be a good idea to have them cleaned.
Whether you already have a solar power system or are looking at installing solar panels on your property, Auswell Energy is here to help. Contact our team on 1300 287 955 or send us a message. See our range of solar installation options and find the best one for your budget and needs.