You’ve invested in a cleaner future and lower energy bills by installing solar panels on your roof. It’s a brilliant decision. One of the best things about solar technology is that it’s incredibly durable and largely self-sufficient. But “low-maintenance” doesn’t mean “no-maintenance.” To ensure your system is generating the maximum amount of power for years to come, a little routine care goes a long way.
Think of it like washing your windows—you still get light through them when they’re dirty, but everything is much brighter and clearer after a good clean. Your solar panels work the same way. This practical guide will walk you through handling common issues like dust, snow, and debris to keep your clean energy source reliable all year round.
First and Foremost: Safety Above All
Before you even think about maintenance, your safety is paramount.
- Working at Heights: If your panels are on a steep or high roof, do not attempt to access them yourself. The risk of a fall is not worth it. For any rooftop work, it is always best to hire a qualified and insured professional.
- Accessible Panels: If your panels are on a ground-mounted system, a garage, or an easily accessible, low-pitched roof, you can likely handle some of the basic cleaning yourself.
- Electrical Systems: You are dealing with an electrical system. While cleaning the surface is generally safe, avoid tampering with any wiring or components. If you have any doubts, call your installer.
The Common Culprits: Dust, Pollen, and Bird Droppings
Here in the UK, rain does a decent job of rinsing our panels. However, it’s not always enough to shift stubborn grime, especially after a dry spell or during high-pollen seasons in spring. A film of dust, lichen, or a splattering of bird droppings can significantly reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cells, impacting efficiency.
How to Clean Your Panels Safely:
- Choose the Right Time: Clean your panels on an overcast day, or very early in the morning or late in the evening. This ensures the glass is cool. Spraying cold water onto hot panels can cause thermal shock and, in rare cases, damage them.
- Use the Right Tools: A bucket of clean water, a soft brush or cloth, and a squeegee on a telescopic pole are your best friends. You can add a small amount of specialised solar panel cleaning solution (or even a drop of washing-up liquid) to the water for tougher grime.
- Gentle Does It: Gently wash the surface of the panels to loosen the dirt. Never use abrasive scouring pads or harsh chemical detergents, as these can scratch the glass or damage the anti-reflective coating.
- Rinse and Squeegee: Use a standard garden hose (not a high-pressure jet wash) to rinse the panels thoroughly, ensuring no soapy residue is left behind. A squeegee will leave a streak-free finish.
How often? For most homes in our region, a good clean once or twice a year is plenty to keep them performing at their best.
Winter Watch: Handling Snow
While heavy, lingering snow isn’t a daily concern in Dover, it does happen. A thick blanket of snow will, unsurprisingly, stop your panels from producing any power.
- Patience is Key: In most cases, the best course of action is to do nothing. Solar panels are dark and angled, so even a little sunlight will warm them up and cause the snow to melt and slide off naturally.
- If You Must Intervene: If the snow is heavy and you need the power, only attempt removal if the panels are safely accessible. Use a soft-headed snow rake or a squeegee—never a metal shovel or a hard brush that could scratch the glass. Gently pull the snow down off the panels, don’t push it up. Never pour hot water on them.
The Seasonal Check-Up: A Visual Inspection
Beyond cleaning, it’s good practice to give your system a quick visual inspection from the ground a few times a year.
- Check for Debris: Look for any build-up of leaves or twigs, especially under the array, as this can restrict airflow and become a potential fire hazard.
- Look for Damage: Scan the panels for any visible cracks, chips, or signs of discolouration.
- Inspect the Racking: Ensure the mounting frame looks secure and that no bolts appear to have loosened over time.
- Manage the Shade: Have nearby trees grown? Overhanging branches can cast new shadows on your panels, significantly reducing their output. Keep them trimmed back.
Your Secret Weapon: The Monitoring App
Your system’s monitoring software is your best maintenance tool. Make it a habit to check your production data weekly or monthly. It’s the easiest way to spot a problem. If you notice a sudden or significant drop in performance that can’t be explained by cloudy weather, it might be time to investigate or call your installer.
By dedicating just a few hours a year to simple maintenance, you protect your investment and ensure your solar panels continue to operate at peak efficiency. You’ll be rewarded with a reliable, consistent flow of clean energy, powering your home for decades to come.