Solar panel maintenance guide

Key Takeaways

• Solar panel maintenance is relatively easy with bi-annual cleanings and annual inspections.

• Solar panels can last much longer than 20 years with regular maintenance.

• Solar panel inverters last 10 to 15 years, so they’ll need to be replaced once or twice during the system’s lifetime.

Photovoltaic panel systems don’t have any moving parts, so they don’t require much maintenance. But that doesn’t mean you can forget about them for 10 years. Regular solar panel maintenance guarantees peak performance and improves the longevity of your system. This includes visual inspections, cleaning, energy monitoring, and professional inspections. Read on to learn how to maintain your home solar panel system.

Do solar panels need maintenance?

While solar panels are known for their durability, they still require regular maintenance to perform at their best and maintain longevity. You'll need to conduct routine inspections to guarantee your system's peak performance and protect your investment.

Key maintenance checks include:

• Checking for loose wiring and damaged components

• Removing debris and bird droppings

• Inspecting for animals nesting underneath panels

• Monitoring energy production levels

• Verifying inverter functionality

• Trimming tree branches that shade panels

Though maintenance isn't time-consuming, it can prevent costly repairs and maintain panel efficiency. Plus, a well-maintained system can help increase your home's value when it’s time to sell.

Solar panel cleaning

One slight downside of solar panels is they need regular cleaning. But it’s not hard to do. While cloudy days decrease your system’s output, a rainy climate can help solar panels last longer as they get a natural bath every so often. Panels at a steeper angle can clean themselves even better. That said, it’s a good idea to clean your panels every six months.

Your cleaning schedule should consider:

• Location factors: Coastal areas need more cleaning due to salt deposits

• Environmental conditions: Urban pollution, wildfire ash

• Panel positioning: Flat panels collect more dirt

• Local wildlife: Bird droppings and tree sap

How to clean solar panels

Correct cleaning techniques are important. Cleaning improperly can lead to damage like microcracks that cause more issues down the road.

For a good clean, use a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth with mild soapy water to gently remove dirt. Using a microfiber mop on a long pole can help you reach panels while you’re on the roof. For light cleaning, you can spray panels with a garden hose. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can damage the silicone seals.

It’s also a good idea to clean during cooler hours to prevent thermal stress on the glass. You don’t want to spray cold water on hot glass, in other words.

Of course, you might not want to get on your roof to clean your panels. If your panels are difficult to access, consider hiring professional cleaners who have proper safety equipment and expertise. This can cost a couple hundred dollars per cleaning.

Regular solar inspections

Besides cleaning, annual inspections from a solar company are also important. A solar panel technician may start with visual inspections and handheld thermal cameras to detect hot spots and visible damage. Larger systems may require drone thermography or professional services using specialized equipment like I-V curve tracers.

Your solar inspection can include:

• Visual checks for physical damage

• Electrical performance testing

• Temperature monitoring using thermal imaging

• Micro-crack detection through electroluminescence testing

Common solar panel problems and troubleshooting

Solar panel systems are complex. Here are a few common problems with causes and solutions:

Regular monitoring of your system's performance indicators will help you catch these issues early. When you notice significant drops in power output, check for dirty panels and shading first, as these are often the easiest problems to fix.

Monitoring solar health

Some solar providers offer monitoring systems and apps. These constantly check how your panels are doing, giving you real-time information on their energy production. You can spot any problems early on, like if a panel is shaded or needs cleaning. By tracking energy output, you can make sure your panels are working their best and schedule maintenance when needed. If your provider doesn’t offer one, you may be able to find a compatible app or device from a third party.

What to do if your system needs a repair

Solar panel issues are fairly rare. In most cases, an issue can be traced to a loose connection or debris affecting output. But if your system has a bigger issue, the first thing to do is contact the manufacturer. They’ll let you know what’s covered under warranty. Major repairs should be handled by the warranty within the first 10 years as long as the issue isn’t excluded from coverage.

Solar warranties can require routine maintenance

Solar panels generally come with two types of warranties: performance and product. The performance warranty guarantees minimum efficiency over a long period like 25 or 30 years, while the product warranty guarantees full equipment functionality for 10 to 12 years.

These warranties cover issues that go awry like a panel suddenly dropping in output. However, the warranty usually requires homeowners to complete regular maintenance. The terms can exclude lack of maintenance for coverage, so it’s important to do your part.

Final thoughts: Maintain your solar panels

Your solar panels need regular maintenance to perform well. Clean them every six months with gentle tools, check for debris regularly, and get a full inspection annually. Your panels will be happy and will continue to generate power for years to come. That said, if you aren’t able to clean the panels or hire a professional regularly, you might want to rethink adding solar panels to your home.

FAQs about solar panel maintenance

Below are a few frequently asked questions about maintaining solar panel systems:

What is the recommended maintenance for solar panels?

You need minimal maintenance for solar panels. Keep them clean with water, gentle cleaners, and soft brushes, inspect them regularly for damage, monitor energy output, and get yearly professional check-ups to maintain optimal performance.

How often does a solar panel need to be cleaned?

Clean your solar panels every six months for optimal performance. Your panels need more frequent cleaning if you live in dusty areas or ocean climates, have flat installations, or notice bird droppings and visible debris affecting power output.

Can I clean my solar panels myself?

You can clean solar panels yourself with proper safety measures. Clean during the morning or overcast days using a soft brush, mild dish soap solution, and a squeegee. If heights make you nervous, professional services are worth considering.

Is solar panel maintenance worth it?

Solar panel maintenance is worth your investment. You'll protect your warranty, extend system life, and maximize energy output. Annual costs of $300 to $700 are minimal compared to potential losses from neglecting your system.