Yes, solar panels need maintenance to continue functioning efficiently. The panels accumulate dirt and debris over time, which eventually becomes a problem. Failing to maintain solar panels regularly will not only lead to reduced energy production but also costly damages.
Here at Connected Solar Gippsland, we always recommend getting a solar panel installer to check your systems routinely. Doing so ensures that there aren’t any hindrances to a system’s performance while maximising cost-saving benefits.
In this post, we’ll share with you how to maintain your solar panel system correctly and how often you should do so.
How Do I Maintain My Solar Panel System?
To maintain your solar panel system, you’ll need to clean them or have a professional do it for you. Dirt can easily collect on the surface of solar panels, particularly during storms or long periods without rain.
Here are some additional tips when maintaining your system:
- Use solar panel cleaning kits. These kits contain everything you need to clean your panels, such as biodegradable soap, a brush, and a wiper. Mix the soap in a bucket and start wiping your solar panels gently to remove any grime or dirt.
- Make sure you wet or moisten your solar panels first before you start cleaning. This ensures that any residue stuck on their surfaces can be easily wiped off.
- Never use abrasive or harsh chemicals when cleaning your solar panels. These products may scratch the surface of your panels and can be expensive to repair.
- If you don’t have time to maintain your solar panel system, you can always call an expert to do it for you. These professionals will inspect and maintain your system and the solar panel wiring depending on the need.
- If you clean your solar panels often, you can just run a hose along their surfaces every now and then to get rid of any dirt.
How Often Should I Clean Solar Panels?
You should clean your solar panels at least once every 6 months. Many specialists agree that maintaining your panels at least twice a year is beneficial. However, there are also instances where you can wait longer or have them cleaned more frequently.
For instance, people who live in a dry area where a lot of dust can quickly build up may find 2 to 3 cleanings a year beneficial. Additionally, those living in a place where their roofs can be subjected to a lot of bird droppings may benefit from regular cleaning.
The type of solar panel you have can also dictate how often you should clean them. Check out our blog about the different types of solar panels to learn more.
To be sure, try to maintain your solar panels at least once every 6 months. You can have them cleaned more often if you find significant dirt build-up by the time you check.
You’ll know that your solar panel system will require maintenance once you see a drop in its total energy output. Once you notice a reduction, call your professional solar installer immediately to schedule an inspection.