Solar Panel Maintenance: How To Keep Your Panels Clean

For homeowners who have invested in solar energy, understanding how to properly care for your solar system is crucial for ensuring optimal efficiency and lifespan. So, what maintenance is required for solar panels? Let’s explore the key aspects of solar panel maintenance, helping you maximise your renewable energy investment.

Benefits of maintaining your solar panels

Regular maintenance of your solar panels offers several advantages:

• Maximised energy production: Clean panels absorb sunlight more effectively, increasing energy production.
• Prevention of costly repairs: Routine checks can identify issues early, avoiding expensive fixes later.
• Extended lifespan: Well-maintained panels can last longer, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Learn more about how regular upkeep can maximise the longevity of your solar investment.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) solar panel maintenance tips

So, how much maintenance do solar panels need? And how should solar panels be cleaned? Most solar panels require cleaning two to four times a year, depending on local weather conditions and how much dirt and debris they collect.

Here’s a simple solar maintenance checklist:

Cleaning

• Clean your solar panels using a telescopic pole or extendable handle and a microfibre cloth to remove dirt, dust and debris.
• For stubborn grime, use mild soap with a soft brush attachment.
• In colder climates, use warm or hot water to prevent ice from forming on the surface when it comes into contact with snow.
• Avoid high-pressure hoses, which can damage the panels.
• Cold water and hot panels don’t mix. Clean solar panels early in the morning or evening.

Inspection

• Check for cracks, loose connections, or signs of wear.
• Monitor the inverter display for error messages.

Vegetation management

• Trim trees or bushes that may cast shade on your panels.
• For ground-mounted solar systems, ensure the area around the panels is clear of vegetation and debris.

Safety considerations

While it usually requires little effort to maintain solar panels, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some essential precautions:

• Use proper gear: Wear non-slip shoes and safety harnesses.
• Implement fall protection: Use ladders securely and consider installing roof anchors.
• Inform your utility company: If you need to disconnect the solar panel system, notify your electricity retailer first.

Hiring a professional service

Solar panels generally require little maintenance, but you’ll want to call a qualified solar installer for the following situations:

• Organising an annual inspection: Schedule a yearly check-up.
• Operational issues: If you notice a significant drop in energy output.
• After extreme weather: Have your panels inspected following severe storms or heavy snowfall.
• Repair or replacement: Any electrical repairs should be handled by certified technicians.

The benefits of professional maintenance include:

• Thorough checks on inverters, batteries and wiring.
• Specialised solar panel cleaning equipment.
• Expert knowledge to identify and resolve complex issues.
• Preserving warranty validity.

Maximise your solar panels’ performance with regular maintenance

Proper upkeep of your panels is vital for peak efficiency, performance and longevity. Following these tips and knowing when to call in the professionals helps protect your investment. If you’re considering installing solar panels, use our solar energy analysis tool to obtain a quote in under two minutes. Visit our residential solar page to learn more about Solar Group’s services.