Solar panel cleaning and maintenance tips
When you invest in solar panels, you want them to last and the good news is, they’re built for it.
We only use high-quality panels with lifespans that can reach up to 40 years. Even though they don’t need much day-to-day attention, regular cleaning and maintenance goes a long way in keeping them performing at their best.
Do solar panels need cleaning – and how often?
Solar panels are designed to be mostly self-cleaning, but over time, dust, pollen and especially bird droppings can build up on the surface. When that happens, less sunlight reaches the panels, they can start to overheat, and your system’s output can drop – sometimes by more than 25%.
For most homes, a professional clean once a year is usually enough. But if you live near overhanging trees, have a lot of bird activity, or you’re in a dusty or sandy area, cleaning may need to happen a little more often.
You can also take steps to prevent debris and wildlife from getting too close. Many homeowners add mesh, netting, bird spikes or even seagull-specific deterrents to stop birds nesting under the panels or dropping twigs and branches into the system.
Do solar panels need servicing?
Yes, if you want to keep your system running efficiently. A full service every four to five years helps make sure everything is working as it should.
Every system is different, but a typical service from us includes checking the panels themselves, the electrical components, the condition of your roof and analysing how much energy the system is producing. This helps us catch small issues before they turn into expensive fixes, and sometimes we’ll suggest upgrades that can give you more power for less cost.
Does the weather affect solar panels?
Solar panels work all year round – on sunny, cloudy and rainy days. Even snow isn’t usually a problem because panels have a water-resistant, smooth surface and snow can melt and slide right off. As the water runs down, it often carries light dirt and dust with it.
Solar panel maintenance tips
Get your panels professionally cleaned
It can be tempting to clean the panels yourself, but certain products and high-pressure washers can actually damage them. They can even cause water to seep into the system. It’s always safest to leave cleaning to professionals, your installer or our team at EE Renewables. We use the right tools, and make sure your warranty stays protected.
Have them inspected regularly
A regular inspection helps you spot damage early and in between services, you could do a quick check from the ground with binoculars! Look for signs like dirt build-up, loose bolts, animal nests or any visible wear. A sudden dip in energy output is also a red flag that something needs attention.
Keep trees and plants trimmed
Overhanging branches can shade your panels or even damage them if they fall. Trimming them back keeps your panels safe and in full sunlight. Don’t forget about climbing plants like ivy, which can creep further than you expect.
Check your inverter
Your inverter is basically the translator of your solar system – it turns the DC electricity from your panels into the AC power your home uses. A solid green light means everything is working normally. If the light is off, or showing a different colour, it’s best to get it checked quickly.
Monitor your system’s performance
Solar panels naturally generate less power in winter because the days are shorter, but you should still keep an eye on daily output. Monitoring your system at the same time each day makes it much easier to spot anything unusual early on.
