Will I Need Solar Panel Maintenance?

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This article is your complete guide to solar panel maintenance. Generally, solar panels require minimal upkeep—keeping them clean from dirt and debris ensures they work efficiently. Regular solar panel cleaning may involve removing anything that blocks sunlight. While cloudy days can affect performance, this is beyond your control. Essentially, for optimal operation, your solar energy system needs an unobstructed path to the sun.

Here at The Energy Professor, we want to give you the information you need to not only save money on your energy bill but to also become more energy efficient. We hope find this post helpful! And makes it easier for you to know more about solar panels. Be sure to check out our solar tool below to calculate how much you could save at your address by switching to solar panels.

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Will I Need Solar Panel Maintenance?

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Yes, solar maintenance is necessary to ensure your solar PV system output is maximized and provides you with the most energy possible. However, minimal maintenance for solar panels are required. You should perform a maintenance check on your solar panels about 2 to 4 times a year to avoid costly solar panel repairs. The panels typically develop more dust and debris following the winter and summer months.

Common Maintenance for Solar Panels

  • The main tasks involve cleaning solar panels and having an annual inspection. If your panels are working properly, they won’t need extensive additional maintenance. You can also hire a solar installer to perform the annual inspection if you’d prefer a professional to handle it. Regular maintenance checks will ensure the health of your solar panels, including a visual inspection for any physical damage.

Keeping a close eye on the panel performance is essential. If you start to see a prolonged drop in energy production, it’s a sign you need to service solar panels. If your panels are older, a decrease in performance can sometimes be a sign a replacement is necessary. But any drop on newer panels is more likely to come from dirt or an obstruction.

Related Post: How much do Solar Panels weigh?

Solar Panel Maintenance Cost

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Panel warranties can cover some of the solar panel maintenance costs with performance guarantees. On average, professional servicing can cost between $150 and $300 annually. If you want a professional solar panel inspection, expect to pay around $150. Cleanings can cost around $150 for each maintenance of solar panels. Many solar companies offer maintenance packages that include solar inverter checks and overall system evaluations.

How much is a Solar Panel Inspection?

  • The national average cost of solar panel inspections, from trained professionals, ranges from $150-$300.

While cleaning your panels may be an easy DIY activity, we highly recommend getting a professional annual inspection of your system. Professional solar panel service takes into account mounting systems, panel framework, and module clamps, alongside your junction boxes, display meters, and searching for moisture penetration or corrosion. Solar system maintenance will also check for broken glass or signs of cracking, as well as loose wiring and bolts.

Solar Panel Maintenance Guide

In addition to cleaning and inspections, using a solar monitoring system is a smart way to stay on top of your solar panel maintenance. Most modern solar installations come with monitoring software or apps that allow you to track your system’s energy output in real time. A sudden drop in energy production could indicate a panel malfunction, shading issue, or inverter problem. By regularly checking your solar performance data, you can quickly detect irregularities and address them before they lead to more serious or costly repairs. Monitoring helps ensure your solar investment is working efficiently and consistently throughout the year.

Related Post: What do Tesla Solar Panels cost?

How Often Should I Clean my Solar Panels?

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While cleaning your solar panels four times a year is great, it’s more realistic to clean them about twice a year. To properly maintain solar panels, cleanings in the spring and fall will be most beneficial since it’s the best time to remove foliage or pollen buildup. Regular solar system cleaning will also help ensure there have been no moisture leaks. Inspect wires and connections during your cleanings to ensure your solar panels are in good condition.

What is the best way to clean solar panels?

  • To clean solar panels, simply use water and a soft brush or cloth to clean away dirt, dust, and debris. You can also use a pressure washer on a low setting or a leaf blower for light debris. Treat your solar panels like you would with any other glass in your house. Dry them like you would windows with a squeegee to avoid leaving residue behind.

Related Post: Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days?

Do I Need Solar Panel Maintenance FAQ

Q: Are Solar Panels Easy to Maintain?

A: Yes! Solar panels are easy to maintain. Thankfully, they’re designed to be attached to your roof at an angle. This makes it extremely easy for things like snow or leaves to slide off the glass on their own. You can also simply spray your panels with a garden hose if necessary. 

Q: Do Solar Panels have Maintenance Costs?

A: Yes, there is a cost to maintain and secure the health of your solar panels. This can cost on average between $150 to $300 annually. If you want a professional annual solar panel inspection, you can expect to pay about $150. Cleanings can cost around $150 for each maintenance of solar panels. This is why we suggest checking your solar panel warranty and any performance guarantees you may be able to take advantage of. Cleaning it yourself is simple and free! We will cover how to clean your panels in the next section.

Q: When Should I Perform a Solar Panel Cleaning?

A: The best times for solar service are spring and fall, as this is when panels develop the most dust and debris. Fall is especially ideal for cleaning due to foliage buildup.

Q: Will I Need Solar Panel Maintenance?

A: Yes, solar panels need regular maintenance remain in good condition and operate at peak efficiency. This includes both cleaning and inspections to prevent any long-term issues.

Do you Need Cheaper Electricity?

If you’ve taken the time to understand the information on your bill and discovered you’re paying more than you’d like for your electricity, have you looked around for a cheaper deal? The Energy Professor has a wealth of information on ways to save on your utilities, including details of top deals that could significantly reduce your monthly or quarterly electricity bills.

We hope you found this article helpful! If you are looking for ways to increase the energy efficiency and sustainability in your home be sure to take a look at all of the latest renewable energy options in your area. The Energy Professor helps residential and small business owners find qualified energy suppliers in New YorkNew JerseyPennsylvania, Texas, Ohio, Maryland, Illinois, and Massachusetts

Kurt Gillman

Kurt Gillman is a seasoned professional in the energy industry, with over 3 years of experience in writing about sustainable solutions for The Energy Professor clients to help them save money. He has lived in various parts of the United States, including Wisconsin, New York City, and Southern California, which has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by different environments and energy needs. Throughout his career, Kurt has been committed to creating helpful energy solution guides that help clients save money while also benefiting the planet. He has a deep passion for understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the renewable energy sector, and he uses his experience to guide readers in making informed decisions about their energy future. As a writer for The Energy Professor, Kurt is proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to creating a sustainable future for all. He understands that every reader has unique needs and goals, and he works closely with his team to develop customized solutions that meet their specific requirements and save them money.