If you install solar panels on your home, you can produce electricity for yourself and become less dependent on the city’s power grid. Not only does this make you more sustainable, but it is a great way to save money in the long run.

But are they easy to take care of? And how much maintenance do they need?

The good news is that solar panels require very little maintenance. Here are some easy solar panel maintenance tips you need to know:

How frequently should I clean my solar panels?

Solar panels are designed to be self-cleaning and do not usually require regular cleaning. However, there may be occasions when you need to clean your solar panels – for example, if they are very dirty or if it has been a long time since they were last cleaned. In these cases, it is best to use a specialist cleaning company with the right equipment to do the job properly. The panels are coated in a special hydrophobic coating, which causes water droplets to roll off the surface. This also helps dirt and debris to fall away, meaning that rainfall is usually enough to keep your solar panels clean. However, more frequent cleaning may be necessary during particularly dry periods or if you live in an area with high levels of dust or sand.

Should I have my panels serviced by a professional?

Solar panels don’t need an annual maintenance review to keep them working effectively; the only time you might need a professional look at your solar panel system is if you notice a significant decrease in electricity generation. This could be a sign that something is amiss and requires the expertise of a technician. Regular inspection and cleaning are still recommended to ensure your system continues to operate at maximum efficiency, as any dust or debris accumulation on the panels can impact energy production. Additionally, it’s good practice to check for damage, such as cracked seals or broken wires, that could affect the system’s performance. Ultimately, taking preventative measures is the best way to ensure your solar panel system continues to run smoothly. ​

Why aren’t my solar panels working as optimally as possible?

Many external factors can impact the efficiency of your solar panels, so it is important to keep track of their performance, especially throughout the different seasons. A great way to understand when your solar energy system is performing optimally is by monitoring your generation meter, which should be located near your fuse board. If you do this regularly, you will soon be able to see when you’re having problems. Most solar panels are designed to keep going for 20-25 years; however, our panels come with a 25-year performance guarantee. So if there’s a problem, it is likely due to either your power supply or inverter. If this happens, it is important to fix the issue as soon as possible to ensure your solar panels are running optimally. Regular maintenance and monitoring of your system can also help avoid any potential problems, ensuring you’re getting the most out of your solar panel investment.

Solar inverter maintenance

A solar inverter is a device that converts raw solar energy into electricity you can use in your home or return to the grid. Suppose your solar inverter isn’t working correctly. In that case, none of the electricity generated by your solar panels will be converted and, therefore, won’t be registered on your meter or available for you to use. You’ll need to replace your inverter if this is the case. Replacing an inverter is something that can easily be done by a professional. Doing so will ensure your solar system is restored and working promptly, allowing you to take full advantage of your Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) payments.

The problem with trees or shrubs on Solar Panels

It is important to check your solar panels regularly for any trees or shrubs that may be shading them. If you notice any problems, prune the plants yourself or hire a specialist to take care of them for you. Trees and shrubs are known to grow quickly, so keep an eye out for any changes in foliage or height that could be blocking sunlight from reaching the solar cells.

Can solar panels generate electricity during the winter?

Solar panels work regardless of the season or weather conditions. That said, the amount of electricity generated may differ depending on the season and climate. In winter, when the days are shorter and there is less sunlight, your system will produce less electricity than in summer, when there is more direct sunlight. This means that you’ll need to be especially careful and check your solar panels regularly to ensure they are still producing at an optimal level during the winter months. Additionally, installing a battery storage system can help you store excess energy produced during sunny days for use on cloudy or rainy days.

Solar panels are a great renewable energy source for your home. They are easy to maintain and, with some simple upkeep, should continue to generate electricity for years to come. For more information about solar panels and batteries, contact us today!