Solar panels generally require very little to no maintenance to function. However, to ensure you’re getting the optimal performance out of your panels, here are a few essential tips.
Online system monitoring
It’s a good idea to use an online monitoring system and check your panels’ performance from time to time. By looking at your panels’ performance month-over-month and year-over-year, you can spot any potential trends in panel performance that may indicate you’re not getting optimal output resulting from a specific issue.
Conduct a periodic light cleaning
Most solar system owners can ensure their panels are in top operating condition by doing a simple, periodic (like in the spring or fall), light cleaning to make sure dirt, leaves, and other debris aren’t obstructing sunlight from reaching your panels and inhibiting their performance. In most cases, the next rainshower will clean your panels of excess debris, but, if you’re experiencing an extended period without rain or other debris is causing an issue, you may choose to clean your panels off. Cleaning your panels can typically be done by washing them off with a hose and allowing them to air dry. If the debris is heavy, you may want to use a diluted soapy water solution and a soft cloth or squeegee. You will want to avoid the use of harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, and pressure washers, which could damage your solar panels.
To learn more about how to care for your solar panels, download our eBook:
Taking Care of Your Solar Panels