Solar Panel Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know
A practical guide to keeping your solar panels clean, efficient, and producing maximum power year after year.
One of the best things about solar panels is how little maintenance they require. Unlike generators or HVAC systems, solar panels have no moving parts and are designed to withstand decades of exposure to the elements. That said, a little attention goes a long way in keeping your system performing at its best.
Regular Cleaning
The most common maintenance task is cleaning your panels. Dust, pollen, bird droppings, and fallen leaves can accumulate on the surface and reduce energy production by 5 to 25 percent, depending on the severity of the buildup.
In most areas, rain does a reasonable job of keeping panels clean. However, if you live in a dusty region, near agricultural areas, or in an area with heavy pollen, you may benefit from periodic cleaning. A simple rinse with a garden hose is usually sufficient. For stubborn buildup, use a soft brush or squeegee with water.
Avoid using abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or high-pressure washers, as these can damage the anti-reflective coating on your panels. Never walk on your panels, and always prioritize safety when accessing your roof.
Monitoring System Performance
Modern solar systems come with monitoring software that tracks your energy production in real time. Check your monitoring app regularly to spot any unusual drops in performance. A sudden decrease in output could indicate a panel issue, inverter problem, or shading from new tree growth.
Most monitoring platforms send alerts when performance drops below expected levels. Pay attention to these notifications and contact your installer if you notice persistent underperformance that cannot be explained by weather or seasonal changes.
Annual Inspections
We recommend a professional inspection once a year. A trained technician will check the mounting hardware for corrosion or loosening, inspect wiring connections and conduit for damage, verify inverter operation and error codes, clean panels if needed, and check for new shading obstructions.
These inspections typically cost between $150 and $300, or they may be included in a maintenance plan. Think of it like an annual checkup for your car: catching small issues early prevents expensive repairs later.
Inverter Maintenance
Your inverter is the hardest-working component in your solar system. String inverters typically last 10 to 15 years and may need replacement once during your panel lifetime. Microinverters, on the other hand, are warrantied for 25 years and rarely need attention.
Keep the area around your inverter clear of debris and ensure adequate ventilation. If your inverter displays error codes or warning lights, contact your installer promptly.
Tree Trimming
Trees grow, and what started as minimal shading can become a significant issue over time. Monitor the trees around your property and trim branches that begin to cast shadows on your panels, especially during peak production hours between 10 AM and 2 PM.
Warranty Coverage
Most solar panels come with a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing at least 80 percent of original output, plus a 10 to 25 year product warranty covering manufacturing defects. Keep your warranty documentation accessible and understand what is covered before scheduling any third-party service.
The bottom line: solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance, but a small investment in care and monitoring ensures you get the maximum return from your system for decades to come.
