Solar Panel Maintenance: What You Actually Need to Know
Debunking myths and providing practical tips for keeping your solar system performing at its best for decades.
One of the best things about solar panels is how little maintenance they require. Unlike other home systems that need regular servicing, solar panels are designed to withstand the elements and keep producing electricity for 25 to 30 years with minimal intervention. That said, a little attention goes a long way toward keeping your system at peak performance.
The Good News: Solar Panels Are Low Maintenance
Modern solar panels have no moving parts, which means there is very little that can wear out or break down. They are built to withstand rain, hail, wind, and extreme temperatures. Most manufacturers test their panels to withstand hailstones up to one inch in diameter at speeds of 50 miles per hour.
The glass surface of solar panels is treated with an anti-reflective coating that also helps shed dirt and debris. In many climates, regular rainfall is sufficient to keep panels clean enough for optimal performance.
When Cleaning Is Necessary
While rain handles most cleaning, there are situations where manual cleaning can boost performance. Dust and pollen buildup in dry climates can reduce output by 5 to 10 percent. Bird droppings are particularly problematic because they create concentrated shade spots. Tree sap and leaf debris can accumulate if panels are near deciduous trees. In agricultural or industrial areas, dust accumulation may be heavier.
If you notice a drop in your system’s energy production, dirty panels are often the culprit. You can clean panels yourself with a garden hose and soft brush, or hire a professional cleaning service. Never use abrasive cleaners, high-pressure washers, or scrub with rough materials, as these can damage the anti-reflective coating.
The best time to clean panels is early morning or late evening when they are cool. Spraying cold water on hot panels can cause thermal stress and potentially crack the glass.
Annual Inspections
We recommend an annual professional inspection to catch any issues before they affect performance. A thorough inspection includes a visual check of all panels for cracks, discoloration, or hot spots, verification that mounting hardware is secure and free of corrosion, inspection of wiring and connections for damage or wear, inverter performance testing and error log review, and a review of monitoring data to identify any underperforming panels.
Many of these checks can be performed remotely through your system’s monitoring platform, which tracks the performance of individual panels in real-time. If our monitoring system detects an anomaly, we can often diagnose the issue before you even notice a change in your energy production.
Inverter Maintenance
While solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years, inverters have a shorter lifespan of 10 to 15 years for string inverters. Microinverters and power optimizers generally last longer, often matching the panel warranty. Budget for an inverter replacement roughly halfway through your system’s life.
Keep the area around your inverter clear of debris and ensure adequate ventilation. Inverters generate heat during operation, and overheating can reduce efficiency and shorten lifespan. If your inverter is installed outdoors, make sure it is in a shaded location.
Monitoring Your System
The most important maintenance tool is your monitoring system. Modern solar installations include real-time monitoring that tracks energy production, consumption, and system health. Get familiar with your monitoring app and check it periodically. Look for consistent daily production patterns that match weather conditions, any sudden drops that might indicate a panel or inverter issue, and gradual declines that could suggest cleaning is needed.
Most monitoring platforms send automatic alerts for significant performance deviations, so you do not need to check constantly. But understanding your system’s normal performance makes it easier to spot when something is off.
What About Snow?
If you live in an area that gets snow, you may wonder if you need to clear your panels. In most cases, the answer is no. Solar panels are installed at an angle, and snow typically slides off on its own, especially as the dark panels absorb heat from any available sunlight. Attempting to clear snow with tools can damage the panels.
In heavy snow regions, your system design should account for snow load and seasonal production variations. Your annual energy production estimate already factors in winter weather patterns for your location.
The Bottom Line
Solar panel maintenance is refreshingly simple compared to most home investments. Keep an eye on your monitoring data, get an annual inspection, and clean your panels when needed. With these basic steps, your solar system will deliver reliable, clean energy for decades to come.
