Solar Panel Maintenance & Aftercare Tips

So, you've just invested in a brand-new solar panel system, and you're probably wondering how much upkeep it's going to need. The honest answer? Not much at all! One of the major benefits of solar panels is their low-maintenance nature since they don't have any moving parts. While we at Project Solar always recommend having your solar panels serviced by professionals, there are still a few simple steps you can take to keep your system running at peak performance.

 

Regular Inspections

Sometimes, critters like pigeons or squirrels can find their way under your solar panels to stay warm, thanks to the heat they generate. To prevent this, consider installing a solar panel mesh during the initial setup. This mesh will block off these spaces and stop any unwanted animal guests from causing damage. If you didn't opt for this during installation, you can purchase one separately and install it yourself later.

 

Keep Your Panels Clean

Although solar panels lack moving parts, keeping them free of debris is crucial. Leaves, branches, pollen, and dirt can accumulate on the surface over time, blocking sunlight and reducing your system's efficiency. If you decide to clean your panels yourself, be extremely careful not to scratch the protective glass covering the solar cells. A great cleaning solution is a mix of rubbing alcohol and water, paired with a soft cloth to avoid leaving any marks. Scratches on the glass can reduce sunlight exposure, which is something you definitely want to avoid.

For safety reasons, use a long-handled wiper to clean panels while standing on the ground. If you need to access the panels from the roof, ensure you wear proper safety gear like a harness and non-slip shoes – the roof might get slippery after cleaning. It's best to clean your panels early in the morning or on a cloudy, cooler day. Trying to clean them midday or on a bright, sunny day could lead to burns, as the panels can get quite hot during regular operation.

The frequency of cleaning depends on your location and environmental factors. Generally, once or twice a year is enough, but areas prone to pollution or surrounded by trees might require seasonal cleaning. Interestingly, most solar panels are designed to be somewhat self-cleaning through rainfall. Some regions may experience minimal dust or debris accumulation, allowing your system to operate efficiently for years without much intervention. However, it's still wise to periodically inspect your panels to catch any issues before they significantly impact your energy bills.

 

Check for Sunlight Blockages

When your panels were initially installed, our solar experts ensured they were positioned for optimal sunlight exposure. Over time, though, trees grow and new structures appear, potentially casting shadows over your panels. Regularly checking the amount of direct sunlight your panels receive is another key part of maintaining your solar system. If you notice anything blocking sunlight, you can take steps to remove these obstructions and maximize your system's output.

 

How Do You Know If Your Panels Need Cleaning?

Obviously, you can visually inspect your panels, but spotting dirt from the ground might not be easy. A simpler method is using the solar panel monitoring app provided when your system was installed. This app allows you to track your system's energy production. On a sunny day, if your output is lower than usual, your panels may need a thorough cleaning.

Need help with maintaining your solar panels? Or interested in starting your solar journey with Project Solar? Reach out to us today and speak to our expert advisors for guidance.