REC N-PEAK Installation & Maintenance
REC Installation Manual - NPeak - IEC /
Rev B . Ref: NE
MAINTENANCE
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
REC solar panels have been designed for easy maintenance. Cleaning solar panels can however assist in optimizing electricity output. The need for
cleaning the panels will vary dependent on location, rainfall, air pollution levels and the angle of installation – the lower the angle of installation, the
more cleaning will be required. ‘Normal’ rainfall will naturally clean the panels if installed at a sufficient angle to ensure water runs off the surface.
To optimize electrical output it is recommended to clean the panels when dirt can clearly be seen on the glass surface.
Panel cleaning should always be carried out when the panels are cool to avoid breakage through thermal shock, e.g., early morning.
The build up of dirt on the panel surface over time may cause cell shading which will reduce power output or can even cause further damage. To clean
either the front or rear of the panels, use only deionized water free from grit and physical contaminants, at ambient temperature and use a sponge,
microfiber cloth or a so brush to wipe away the dirt (rainwater, tap water or diluted alcohol may also be used as a secondary solution). For further
cleaning a mild, biological and biodegradable washing-up liquid may be used.
When cleaning the panel, take care not to scratch the surface or introduce foreign elements that may cause damage. Ensure the water used is free
from grit and physical contaminants that may damage the panel. Always rinse the panel with plenty of water. If soiling remains on the panel, repeat
the cleaning process. If stains require more effort to be removed, Isopropyl alcohol of a concentration less than may be used. Acid or Alkali
detergent may not be used.
Use of high pressure hoses or cleaners is not permied as these may damage the panels, laminate or cells.
Using a so rubber squeegee, wipe the panel surface from the top downwards to remove any residual water from the panel glass. Panels can be
le to dry in the air or wiped dry with a clean and so cloth or chamois. Avoid puing pressure on the on the panel surface when drying, e.g., leaning
or standing on it.
For more information on cleaning REC solar panels, consult the
REC Cleaning Information Sheet
which is available to download from the online REC
Download Center www.recgroup.com/downloads. If in doubt at any time when cleaning the panels, stop and obtain professional advice.
SYSTEM INSPECTION
The system should be inspected regularly to ensure that:
• Fasteners are secure, tight and free from corrosion,
• Electrical connections are secure, tight, clean, and free of corrosion,
• The mechanical integrity of the cables is intact,
• Bonding points to ground are tight, secure and free from corrosion (which could break the continuity between the panels and ground).
RECYCLING
REC makes every effort to ensure panel packaging is kept to a minimum. The paper and cardboard packaging can be recycled and the protective
wrapping and panel separating blocks are also recyclable in many areas. Recycle packaging and panels according to local guidelines and regulations.
DISPOSAL OF OLD ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
Panels should be recycled at the end of their useful life according to local guidelines and regulations. By ensuring REC solar panels are disposed
of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health which could otherwise be caused by
inappropriate waste treatment. The majority of the panel components can be recycled.
For installations in the European Union, REC solar panels are subject to WEEE regulations. The symbol in fig. as found on the label on the rear
of the panel indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste and must be disposed of at an appropriate collection point for the
recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. The recycling of the different components and materials will help to conserve natural resources.
Fig. : WEEE symbol
The European WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive regulates the correct recycling of electronic and electrical waste in all
member states of the European Union (EU). For end-customers it is a free of charge disposal system, financed by the manufacturers and importers,
where panels can be brought to a local recycling depot, or in the case of larger numbers, be picked up from site, as is the case with other electrical
equipment, e.g., refrigerators or televisions. The extensive process steps for proper disposal are strictly regulated by the authorities and place
no further obligations on the owner of the panels. For more information about the recycling of this product, please contact your local recycling
authority or recycling center.