Solar system maintenance is something that you’re likely to be spared from worrying about on a long-term basis – between the lack of moving parts that might break down, as well as the fact that solar systems have an average life span of 30 years or more.

Even though maintaining solar panels is usually something that involves minimal fuss, you’ll benefit from knowing what you can do to properly maintain a functional home solar system.

By understanding the solar panel monitoring methods and other maintenance tips, you will be able to keep your solar panels in tip-top shape, regardless of whether you use a walk on solar panel system or another type to fulfill your needs.

 

The Best Year-Round Care

One of the benefits of this year round power source is that it requires little maintenance in comparison to many other power sources. It’s rare for the panels to fail, with most problems originating in the electrical system.

Round solar panels and other solar panels all depend on direct access to sunlight.

Some of the things that can cause obstruction include:

  • Shrubs and other vegetation
  • Snow
  • Dust

 

If you get a lot of snow or dust in your area, the issue of do solar panels need maintenance will be answered when you need to clear the panels off.

One thing you can feel confident about is that your wiring should last for the system’s life. The maintenance of solar panels cost is worth it to have everything installed correctly. They know how to wire your system precisely to avoid damage and can work around a solar powered sprinkler or similar parts without issues.

All kinds of solar panels, including round solar panels, feature updated monitoring systems. When you tried to find out the answer to do solar panels need cleaning, you were probably delighted to learn that web and app-based monitoring plays a leading role in maintenance. A technician is your best source of help for any electrical issues.

 

Spring Care for Solar Panels

Spring is a perfect time for an annual inspection, regardless of your solar panel monitoring methods. You’ll be able to catch any problems that could disrupt good year round power.

Solar ABCs recommends checking these elements yearly:

  • Corrosion/erosion issues
  • Missing bolts/hardware
  • Broken glass, discoloration, and burn marks
  • A worn or cracked inverter
  • Pest infestation signs
  • Exposed or loose wiring
  • Issues with wiring that touches the roof
  • Electrical enclosure corrosion
  • All bushings, supports, and expansion joints
  • Vegetation
  • Roof drainage and water damage issues

 

Caring for Your Panels During Summer

The maintenance of solar panels cost pays for itself with the usage you’ll get during the summer months. As to the question of do solar panels need cleaning – rain takes care of most cleaning needs.

However, even with solar panels you can walk on, you might need to clean off:

  • Tree pollen
  • Animal droppings
  • Grime
  • Dust

Solar panel cleaning costs can be minimal if you rinse them off with a hose or use a solar powered sprinkler. However, you’ll want to make sure you don’t have hard water, which might calcify. For optimal safety, make sure you can spray the panels without having to go up a ladder.

Many solar panel technicians recommend roof-mounted sprinklers in areas with a lot of pollen or dust. The answer to do I need to clean my solar panels is yes, but it’s easiest to do with a properly-installed sprinkler system.

 

Your Fall Cleanup Routine

Every type of solar panel, from a walk on solar panel to other varieties, will work well in the fall if loose leaves and debris do not become a problem. Leaves could be an issue off and on all autumn. Many areas tend to see a lot of wind during the fall that brings in debris.

Leaf removal is one of the more manageable tasks, often compared to gutter cleaning. Always check your warranty terms before attempting this job yourself. Solar professionals can reliably take care of this task as well.

 

Winter Ice & Snow Clearing

If your solar panels have a 15-degree tilt, the snow and ice are likely to melt.

If you lack a solar panel snow guard, clearing the snow off with a snow rake or even a long broom may help. The warranty for your system will give you further guidance on whether to do this yourself.

A solar system maintenance professional may prove helpful for removing ice. You’ll need to be careful what’s used, making the help of a pro all the more critical. Keeping ice from building up will help prevent structural damage, and a solar panel snow guard is also helpful.

In most cases, maintaining solar panels is worry-free. The quality of glass used can stand up against most weather events. Solar panel technicians should get involved in the event of a crack to prevent further damage.

 

Keeping It Safe

Although it is known that the answer to “do solar panels need maintenance” is yes, this is a task that homeowners should never undertake themselves.

Industry standards favor these jobs being handled by technicians in pairs. There is always a risk with electricity, making the need for technicians with proper training all the more critical.

Although you can perform cleaning yourself, especially with solar panels you can walk on, it is safer to use a professional to avoid any mistakes with drastic consequences. The solar panel cleaning costs associated with a professional are worth it for extra safety.

Although the answer to do I need to clean my solar panels ls is yes, ownership is pretty much worry-free. Regular cleaning, visually inspecting your panels, and routine maintenance makes all the difference. Choosing a well-qualified technician with a good record is the best way to go for satisfactory results.