Solar Panel Maintenance: Cleaning and Care Tips
Most solar panels are designed to last around 25 to 30 years, providing a long-term return on your investment. They have few moving parts and are designed to last long, which means they are low maintenance. However, that does not mean you can ignore them completely. Even a system built to last needs your care.
You need to know when to clean, when to check, and when to call professionals. By understanding proper solar panel maintenance, you can ensure your system keeps providing power efficiently, even on cloudy days. In this guide, you will learn why solar panels need maintenance, how to maintain solar panels, what to avoid when cleaning them, and how much the maintenance costs.
Do Solar Panels Need Maintenance?
Do solar panels need maintenance? The answer is yes. Your solar panels require maintenance if you want them to deliver reliable energy for years. Regular care helps remove dirt, debris, and bird droppings that can block sunlight and reduce efficiency.
Varying weather, such as rain, snow, and occasional storms, can affect the performance and cleanliness of your solar panels. While rain and wind can help wash away some dirt, it does not remove sticky grime or heavy debris that blocks sunlight.
Regular inspections also allow you to see if your panels need professional cleaning or servicing. It is best to follow the provided guidance on your system’s maintenance to ensure your system operates safely and continues to provide reliable renewable energy for your home.
How Much Does Solar Panel Maintenance Cost?
The cost of solar panel maintenance varies depending on the service and system size. A professional cleaning service can typically cost between £150-£250 for 10 to 15 panels. The total cost will depend on the number of panels and the ease of access to your roof.
DIY maintenance can be done at minimal cost if you use your own cleaning tools and water. However, it is essential to consider safety and the potential benefits of professional cleaning for hard-to-reach systems to avoid more expensive repairs later.
For professional servicing, it may cost between £140-£250 for both inspection and testing. It includes checking your inverter and electrical connections, which can cost extra. This check ensures your system remains efficient and safe to operate.
Overall, maintenance is a minor expense compared to the savings you get from your long-term investment in a solar system. Proper care ensures that your panels last for many years and continue generating energy efficiently. It is a valuable practice for anyone invested in renewable energy.
How Often Should You Perform Solar Panel Maintenance?
For visual inspections and solar panel maintenance, it is generally recommended to be checked and cleaned at least once or twice a year. It’s best to be done during the spring and autumn seasons when weather conditions are manageable. These seasonal checks will help you spot dirt, bird droppings, or visible damage without difficulty.
You should consider cleaning your panels at least once a year if rain does not sufficiently clear dirt and debris. In areas with heavy dust, trees, or frequent bird activity, you may need to clean them twice a year. For professional cleaning, you can schedule it every one to two years, particularly if your panels are difficult to reach or positioned on steep roofs.
For professional inspections, it is practical to schedule a full system check every three to five years. This includes checking the wiring, inverter performance, and structural assessments to ensure safe and efficient operation. These frequencies for rooftop panels are often the same for ground-level glass panels.
For portable solar panels, such as the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel, minimal cleaning is often sufficient. This is due to their durable design, featuring IP68 waterproofing, which protects it from dust, water, and wet environments. This makes it a great option for outdoor use, as it can handle rain or dust storms. Additionally, with a high efficiency of up to 23% conversion rate, it ensures optimal solar power generation with minimal maintenance needs.
EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel
These foldable panels, commonly paired with compatible solar batteries, such as the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station, are designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. The DELTA Pro, with its 4,096Wh battery capacity, provides massive storage, allowing you to power multiple devices or even large appliances for extended periods. Its expandable capacity means you can add extra batteries to reach up to 12kWh if needed for even longer off-grid power.
How to Properly Maintain Your Solar Panels
Proper solar panel maintenance is essential if you want your system to perform efficiently. With a simple care routine, you can extend the lifespan of your solar panels while maintaining consistent savings on electricity bills. Here’s how to properly maintain your solar panels:
1. Inspect Panels Regularly
The first step for your PV panel maintenance routine should be to check your panels every few months for dirt, bird droppings, or debris. Look from the ground or use a safe ladder without risking your safety. However, if possible, avoid climbing on the roof unless you have proper safety equipment and training. Look for any visible damage, such as cracks on the glass or loose wiring.
2. Monitor Energy Output
Use your solar panel system's monitoring app or inverter display to track energy output. A sudden drop in performance could indicate a need for cleaning or further inspection. Monitoring is a practical step of solar panel maintenance that you can easily perform at home. It helps you stay aware of your system's efficiency without guessing.
3. Clean Panels Gently
Use plain water and a soft sponge for cleaning panels when rain is not enough. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface or frame of your panels. Cleaning carefully helps with the maintenance of solar panels while ensuring no scratches are left on the glass. Choose cool or cloudy days or early mornings to clean safely.
4. Check Wiring and Inverter
Check your system's wiring for visible wear or loose connections when inspecting your panels. Check also your inverter to confirm if it is working correctly and showing normal readings. This step is vital for effective solar panel maintenance and helps avoid unexpected system failures. Address any concerns with a professional if you find irregularities.
5. Trim Nearby Trees
Trim trees that may block or shade your panels during the day. Shading can significantly reduce the efficiency of your solar system. Trimming trees is a simple step in solar panel maintenance that helps sunlight reach your panels consistently. It also prevents leaves from piling on your panels, which can block light and create dirt buildup.
6. Hire Professional Cleaners When Needed
If your panels are difficult to reach, consider hiring professional cleaners. They have the right tools and experience to clean your panels safely and thoroughly. This option is an essential step in solar panel maintenance for larger or high-roof installations. It helps you keep your panels clean without risking personal injury.
7. Schedule Professional Inspections
While you can manage many tasks yourself, a professional check every few years is advisable. Professionals can check electrical connections, inverter performance, and overall system health. Including professional servicing in your photovoltaic maintenance routine helps keep your system in top condition.
8. Invest in the Best Solar Battery Storage
As solar panels become a common sight in UK households, having the best solar battery storage UK can support your system during maintenance periods. Solar battery storage can store excess energy while your panels are being cleaned or serviced, ensuring you still have power. Solar power stations are also reliable for night use and cloudy weather when there’s less or no sunlight.
If you don’t have one yet and are considering investing, it is wise to compare first the solar battery prices and features of varying options before buying. The right solar battery storage can maximise your system's performance.
Solar batteries, like a portable power station, can also assist in powering cleaning tools during maintenance, making the cleaning process easier.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Your Solar Panels
Cleaning your panels is a key part of solar panel maintenance, but it is important to avoid mistakes that could damage your system or reduce its effectiveness. Here are practical tips on what to avoid when cleaning your system:
1. Using Abrasive Materials
Never use rough sponges, brushes, or harsh scrubbing tools when cleaning panels. These can scratch the glass and reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Instead, use a soft sponge or cloth with water and a mild soap for gentle cleaning. This ensures your PV panel maintenance routine keeps your panels in good condition.
2. Using Harsh Chemicals
Strong chemicals can damage the panel surface and may leave residues that block sunlight. Stick to using plain water or a mild soap solution if necessary. Harsh cleaners can also affect the frame and seals of your panels. This step is essential for the effective maintenance of solar panels without causing damage.
3. Using High-Pressure Washers
High-pressure washers can crack or damage the panels, leading to reduced efficiency. Choose gentle cleaning methods as part of your solar panels' maintenance routine. This keeps your panels in good condition while removing dirt effectively.
4. Cleaning Panels While Hot
Avoid cleaning your panels during the hottest part of the day. Sudden temperature changes from cool water can crack the glass. Cleaning during cooler hours helps you avoid thermal stress on your panels. Choose to clean your panels early in the morning or late afternoon for safe PV panel maintenance.
5. Walking on Panels
Walking on panels can cause cracks or other damage that reduces efficiency. Always clean from a safe position or use professional services if your panels are installed on high or steep roofs. Avoiding unnecessary pressure on your panels extends their lifespan.
6. Climbing Without Safety Equipment
Never climb onto your roof to clean panels without proper safety gear and experience. Falls can lead to serious injuries. Consider hiring professionals for cleaning or using long-handled brushes if you deem it safe to do so.
7. Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines
Each system may have specific instructions for the maintenance of solar panels. Ignoring these can void warranties or cause damage. Always follow your installer or manufacturer’s guidance when cleaning or inspecting your panels.
Conclusion
Solar panel maintenance is the key to ensuring your system continues to deliver reliable power while protecting your investment in the long run. Keeping your panels clean and monitoring your system’s performance will help you avoid unnecessary repair costs while maximising your energy output. By inspecting your panels regularly, you can spot potential issues early and keep your system operating efficiently. Cleaning your panels safely will also help protect their surface and performance. With proper care, your solar panels will continue to serve your home with sustainable energy while reducing your energy bills and reliance on the grid.
FAQs
How often should a solar panel be cleaned?
Solar panels should generally be cleaned at least once a year, especially if dirt, bird droppings, or debris accumulate. In areas with frequent dust or tree cover, cleaning may be required more often, even twice a year. If you choose to hire a professional service, you can schedule cleaning every one or two years depending on environmental factors. Additionally, a professional inspection should be carried out every three to five years to evaluate the overall performance and condition of your solar system. These checkups help identify any issues early and ensure your panels continue to operate efficiently, avoiding costly repairs down the road.
Should I spray water on my solar panels?
Yes, you can spray water on your solar panels to clean them, but it’s important to do so with care. Use a gentle spray of plain water to avoid causing any damage to the surface. It’s recommended to use a hose with a low water pressure setting rather than a high-pressure washer, which can damage the panels. If you use a soft sponge, it helps remove stubborn debris without scratching the surface. High-pressure water streams or chemicals should be avoided as they could strip the panels' protective coatings, potentially reducing their lifespan and efficiency. Always clean on a cool day to avoid thermal shock to the panels.
What should you not do when cleaning solar panels?
When cleaning solar panels, it is essential to avoid using harsh chemicals, high-pressure washers, or abrasive cleaning tools that could scratch or damage the surface of the panels. Never attempt to clean panels during extremely hot weather, as this could cause thermal stress and lead to cracks. It's also important not to walk on the panels, as they are fragile and walking on them can cause cracking or breakage. Additionally, avoid using any metal objects to scrape debris, as this could cause surface damage. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for proper care and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your system.