Are you looking at the prospect of expanding your home or business with a solar panel system to cut energy costs and use more green energy?
For some homeowners and businesses, especially in the southwest, it can definitely be a lucrative move.
At the same time, the addition of one of these systems, which contain many sensitive electrical components, will necessitate a little extra monitoring and maintenance.
Here’s a high-level overview of what you should know about protecting and securing solar panels and cables.
Use the Right Solar Panel Cable
Using the right solar panel cable, and one that is appropriate for the application, is one of the most critical considerations that must be made before installing a solar panel system.
For one, it is important to use appropriately rated solar panel cable. Not just any electrical wire or cable can be used for such a purpose. Since solar panel cables are subject to extremes of the weather as well as incessant sunlight, they must be both weather and UV-resistant.
On top of that, it is important to use cable of an appropriate gauge. Using cable that is too thin for an application will result in overheating and a substantially heightened risk of fire.
This is not something you should shoulder alone if you are not electrically savvy. Work with a professional electrician or installer to get the job done right.
Use Appropriate Solar Panel Cable Accessories
Solar panel cable management is one of the most important aspects of the safety, and continued effective operation of, a solar panel system.
Solar panel cables should not be haphazardly installed and it’s also vital to use appropriate cable management accessories like solar panel clips, zip ties, and grounding clips (which help prevent the risk of shorts and fires) where applicable.
One thing to note is not to use standard zip ties as these will deteriorate rather quickly as a result of UV exposure. Use only those that are appropriately rated for the installation.
Protecting the Solar Panels from Hail
Solar panels are remarkably durable but they are not impervious to weather-related damage and one of the most concerning meteorological events (with respect to solar panel damage) is hail.
Panels can be protected with both hard and padded covers, but a thin mesh is often a more suitable solution as it allows sunlight through while shielding the surface of the panel.
However, what is most appropriate for your home may vary as a result of where you are in the country; always seek the advice of a professional before making any adjustments.
Protecting Solar Panels and Cables from Pests
For better or worse, solar panels are a magnet for pests, including pigeons, squirrels, raccoons and possums, among others.
Pigeons can build nests on top of wires, which can result in overheating and a higher risk of fire. Similarly, rodents like mice and squirrels may gnaw on cables, resulting in overheating and the same risks.
One of the most effective ways to protect the solar panels and cables is by installing stainless steel mesh netting appropriately rated for the situation. This can be used to help seal gaps, protecting the space underneath the panels as well as the cables themselves.
Where to Get Started with High Quality Solar Panel Cables?
Looking for high-quality solar panel cables for a future project? Check out EWCS Wire. They carry a wide range of specialized electrical wire and cable, including solar panel cable.
For more information on their product specifications, visit their website or get in touch with them directly at [email protected] or at 800-262-1598.
