Solar Panel Maintenance

Solar panels are a very reliable source of energy. Because most solar panel systems have no moving parts, they require limited maintenance and can easily last for years without needing attention. Many solar panel systems, including the ones installed by Pink Energy, come with a 25-year warranty or even longer depending on the manufacturer. 

However, there are a couple of options to ensure your panels reach optimum longevity. Preventative maintenance can go a long way in making sure your panels last for their full lifetime. To learn more about how to maximize your solar system’s performance, read the article below.

Solar Panels Are Typically Low Maintenance

To reiterate, it’s relatively uncommon for your panels to require routine maintenance. These systems are designed to withstand wind, rain, snow and other inclement weather. In terms of cleaning, precipitation typically takes care of that, and because these systems have very few moving parts, electrical system malfunctions due to wear and tear are fairly uncommon. 

The only maintenance you may need to consider is professional cleaning. Debris can impact your solar panel performance, as it blocks maximum sunlight from reaching the solar panels. This debris can include leaves, dust, bird droppings and dirt, among other things.

Seasonal Solar Panel Maintenance

Spring

Each year there are different maintenance points to remember. Every spring, it’s a good idea to check for the following potential issues:

• Winter water damage
• Roof drainage issues
• Loose or exposed wiring
• Missing bolts
• Rack system corrosion

During pollen season, you also might want to rinse your panels with a hose if you aren’t receiving enough rain, although you’ll want to use demineralized water for that.

Fall

During autumn, you may need to remove leaves from your panels to help  them produce at optimal levels. Rainstorms might help remove leaf debris, but in the event that there are still leaves or debris on your panels, again, a garden hose should take care of it!

Winter

In the winter, keeping snow off your panels might be your top priority, but consider this — the heat from your home combined with heat from the sun may help the snow to slide right off the roof. You should avoid using rakes or brooms to clean snow off of your panels, as they can cause damage.

How To Clean Your Solar Panels

In order to ensure maximum efficiency, most solar panel owners are invested in keeping their solar panels clean. This is typically only necessary once or twice a year at the changing of the seasons, although there isn’t really an official standard timeline for cleaning them. 

When it comes to actually cleaning your solar panels, hiring a professional is typically the safest way to go. Professional solar panel cleaners will have equipment and expertise that you do not, as well as an understanding of what needs to be done. However, if you have safe access to your roof, you can clean them yourself. All you will need is clean water and a microfiber towel or microfiber sponge. You’ll never want to use cleaning supplies or abrasive scrubbers, nor will you want to use a power washer. All of those items can cause damage to your panels that will require a professional to fix. 

If you decide to clean your solar panels yourself, make sure that you are being safe. Use safety equipment and have help while you’re on your roof. 

You also should never attempt a technical repair yourself. Solar panels are typically tied to the electricity grid, making any system repairs the job of a professional who can approach them safely. Doing the work yourself also can void your solar panel warranty.

Keeping Your Pink Energy Panels Running

One of the main benefits of solar is that your solar panel system essentially runs itself! But in the event there is an issue with your system, you can rely on Pink Energy to do the work. You can learn more about how our systems can work year-round providing you with reliable energy by contacting your local Pink Energy team.