How Often Should You Service Your Solar Panels?
Did you know that an average household in Australia can save anywhere between $800 to $200 per year on electricity bills by using solar panels? No wonder solar-powered systems are on the rise, and more people seem eager to adopt this sustainable way of living.
Once installed, these systems quietly convert sunlight into electricity, often for decades. However, to ensure you get beneficial results as long as you can, the solar panel needs proper maintenance and servicing.
Checking whether everything is working fine to regularly cleaning the panel, we need to be diligent in the maintenance of the solar panels in order to extend the shelf life. Now, you may wonder - how often should I service my solar panels?
That’s a valid question and will be discussed in depth in this blog. Here, we will understand different types of maintenance, the impact of extreme weather, how often servicing needs to be done, and more.
At Wescombe Electrical, we provide top-class solar electrical solutions, tailored to your needs. Our team of seasoned experts assesses the panel and offers comprehensive servicing.1. Are You Accredited or Certified for Solar Repairs?
The first and most important question is about qualifications. In Australia, solar system repairs should only be carried out by licensed electricians with additional Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation.
This ensures that the technician understands the safety requirements and best practices for working with solar equipment.
If a provider cannot prove they are appropriately accredited, it's a red flag. Always ask to see their licence and relevant certification details before proceeding.
How Often Do Solar Panels Need Servicing?
One of the most frequent questions that comes to mind during the installation of solar panels is - how often should I service the solar panels?
It is important to note that, generally, solar panels are quite low-maintenance. That means you won’t need to clean them every single day. However, ensuring proper cleaning every three months leads to maximum efficiency. You also need to schedule an annual inspection and servicing. That way, any debris, dirt, or potential electrical issues can be addressed before they affect performance or safety.
However, areas with lots of trees, dust, heavy rainfall or bird activity might warrant more frequent servicing. It depends on the environment the solar panel is installed in and how you take care of it.
Different types of solar panel maintenance
Solar panel maintenance is not restricted to mere cleaning. It’s much more than that. There are three different types of solar panel maintenance.
These are -
Corrective Maintenance: In this maintenance, experts are immediately contacted when you see any visible damage on the solar panel. For example, if you see a crack or dark spots in the panel, you must get professional assistance right away.
Preventive Maintenance: This maintenance is exactly what the name suggests. Preventive maintenance ensures no issue escalates to a high level. If you schedule preventive maintenance every three months, you can detect any problem before it becomes huge. This maintenance includes checking the mechanical, electrical and technical components of the solar panel.
Deep Cleaning: The performance of the solar panels is greatly affected if dust, debris and other particles accumulate. That is why deep cleaning of the solar panels, at least once a month, is extremely important.
How to maintain solar panels?
Maintaining solar panels doesn’t have to be complicated. You can follow some simple tips to ensure the solar panels are not damaged or affected.
Here are the maintenance tips -
Clean the Panels Regularly
Regular cleaning is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain solar panels. Dust, bird droppings, leaves, and pollution can accumulate on the surface, blocking sunlight and reducing efficiency. Generally, panels should be cleaned every month or once every three months, depending on your location and environmental conditions.
If you are doing it yourself, use a soft brush or sponge with plain water. Make sure to avoid abrasive materials or high-pressure washers that can damage the surface. Cleaning during early morning or late evening is best, as the panels are cooler and less likely to crack due to sudden temperature changes.
Trim Surrounding Trees and Plants
Overgrown trees and tall bushes can cast shadows on your solar panels, significantly decreasing their output. Moreover, falling leaves, branches, or bird activity from nearby trees can dirty the panels or cause minor damage over time.
It is important to regularly trim to ensure maximum exposure to sunlight. This also minimises the risk of physical obstructions or nesting birds, especially around the mounting structures.
Monitor System Performance
Most solar systems nowadays come with monitoring software or apps that let you track the energy output. It is critical to keep an eye on performance data that helps you quickly identify any irregularities.
For example, a sudden drop in production may signal a problem like shading, dirt build-up, or equipment failure. Reviewing this data weekly or monthly ensures your system is operating efficiently and alerts you to any issues that may require servicing.
Schedule Annual Professional Servicing
Even if your solar panels seem to be working fine, it's recommended to have them professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year. A certified technician checks for structural integrity, tests electrical connections, cleans the panels thoroughly, and ensures the various components are functioning correctly.
This annual check-up helps catch minor issues early before they develop into expensive repairs. That way, you won’t have to suddenly invest a huge sum.
Can extreme weather impact the solar panels?
Though solar panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, extreme weather can still cause damage or efficiency loss.
Heavy Rain and Hail: Most solar panels are built to resist hail and rainfall. However, larger or frequent hailstorms can crack the solar panel surface. It can also cause small fractures that reduce efficiency over time.
Extreme Heat: Though solar panels need sunlight, excessive heat can slightly reduce efficiency. If the temperature is above 25 degrees Celsius, the panels lose 1% efficiency for each degree increase.
Snow and Ice: Snow cover blocks sunlight and reduces output temporarily. While snow often slides off due to the panel’s tilt, excessive accumulation may damage the solar panel. It can also cause ice damage in connectors.
When to replace or repair solar panels?
While solar panels can last 25–30 years, some issues might warrant a repair or replacement. If it is under the warranty period, there is nothing to worry about. You can contact the manufacturer and schedule the repair accordingly.
Minor issues such as loose wiring, small cracks, or a drop in output can often be resolved through repairs. For example, if your panels are less than 15 years old and showing signs of underperformance, a technician might recommend fixing or replacing specific components.
On the other hand, if your solar panels are over 20 to 25 years old, visibly damaged, or experiencing a significant decline in efficiency, replacement might be the best solution.
However, if the repair costs are close to or exceed the value of a new system, replacement is usually the smarter choice. It is important to understand that regular maintenance and annual inspections aid in prolonging the life of the solar panels.
Wescombe Electrical: Your Go-To Partner For Solar Solutions
Solar panels are a long-term investment that offers clean and cost-effective energy. However, like any system, they require regular care to perform at their best. These include routine maintenance, timely cleaning, weather protection, and professional inspections.
At Wescombe Electrical, we provide high-quality solar solutions for your residential or commercial project. Our qualified technicians offer reliable, professional support to keep your solar system in top shape.
To know more, get in touch with us via call or fill out the form on the website.