Solar Panel Maintenance: What You Need to Know

Bringing you lower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and a system that lasts for decades, solar panels are one of the few home upgrades that keep paying off year after year. 

With that said, one of the most frequently asked questions is: how much maintenance do solar panels need? After all, no one wants to install equipment that requires constant upkeep.

Here’s the good news: solar panels need little to no maintenance.

With no cleaning, solar panels can still operate at over 90% efficiency, even after 25 years. Even as they age, they continue to produce power, maintaining around 89% efficiency well beyond their warranty period.

They’re built to handle rain, snow, and strong winds, so you don’t have to worry about the weather taking a toll. When they’re installed by the experts at Guelph Solar, you can be sure your system is set up for long-term performance with minimal effort on your part.

Do Solar Panels Need a Lot of Maintenance?

Solar panels work with little to no upkeep. Unlike other energy systems, they have no moving parts to wear out, meaning there’s very little that can go wrong.

A study from the University of San Diego found that dirt buildup causes only about a 0.05% energy loss per day, and in most cases, rain takes care of any dust or debris.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Solar System Running Efficiently

While solar panels don’t need much attention, a little care from time to time will keep your system running efficiently for decades.

Prevent Critter Damage 

Squirrels, birds, and rodents might find your solar wiring interesting, but that’s not good news for your energy production. These little critters can chew through wires, reducing efficiency or even shutting down parts of your system. The best fix? Consult an advisor at Guelph Solar and have us install critter guard. These simple wire barriers keep pests from causing damage, ensuring your solar panels run without a hitch.

Snow Buildup 

If you live in a snowy climate, you might wonder if snow buildup affects solar production. Fortunately, thanks to net metering, snow is not a problem for your panels. Your solar system will over-produce energy in the summer months to make up for any underproduction in the winter. Net metering allows you to store this excess energy on the grid for free for one year, so you don't need to worry about producing enough in the winter. We recommend that you do not ever attempt to clear snow from your solar installation. If your panels get covered, don’t worry; any temporary drop in efficiency during winter is offset by those sunny summer months.

Warranties & Long-Term Performance

One of the biggest perks of solar panels is their incredible lifespan. Most panels are built to last between 40 and 50 years, and warranties cover 25 years. Even after decades of use, they still operate at around 85% efficiency, which is a solid, long-term return on investment.

However, a little upkeep goes a long way. Skipping routine checks or system maintenance could void your warranty, meaning you’d have to cover repair costs yourself. Checking your warranty details and following simple maintenance tips will help you protect your investment. 

Replace Your Inverter

Since inverters have a shorter lifespan than your solar panels, they will require a replacement every 10 to 15 years to keep your system running smoothly. Your inverters convert DC electricity into usable AC power, so keeping them in good shape is crucial. The replacement cost is around $1200 dollars for most residential systems; a small price to pay for reliable energy production year after year.

Monitor Your System

When it comes to solar system maintenance, the panels themselves are rarely the problem; they’re built to last for decades. Instead, the most common issue that solar owners face is a failure of the monitoring system, often due to human error.

Top Causes of Monitoring System Failures

1. Unplugged WiFi Extender
   Many solar monitoring systems rely on a WiFi extender to ensure a strong connection between your inverter and your home network. If this gets accidentally unplugged or moved, your monitoring system can stop transmitting data. This can make it look like your solar system is not producing power when, in reality, it’s just not reporting properly.

2. Replaced or Reset Modem/Router
   If you’ve recently switched internet providers or upgraded your router, your solar system may lose connection. This happens because your inverter was originally paired with your old network settings. When your modem is replaced or reset, the system needs to be reconnected to the WiFi.

3. Lost Login Credentials
   Many homeowners forget their login information for their monitoring apps. If you’re locked out of your monitoring system, you won’t be able to check your solar performance, and issues can go unnoticed.

Minimal Maintenance, Maximum Benefits - Invest in Solar Energy with Guelph Solar

If you’re looking for a solar system that’s hassle-free, cost-effective, and built to last, Guelph Solar is your go-to expert. With over 16 years of experience and more than 3,000 successful installations in Guelph and surrounding areas, we know how to deliver high-quality solar solutions that fit your needs.

Our expertise in net metering systems lets you earn credits for the extra energy your panels generate, cutting your electricity bills by hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time.

As a local company, we’re proud to offer personalized service, expert installation, and ongoing support. We ensure your transition to clean energy is smooth, stress-free, and rewarding. Choosing Guelph Solar means taking control of your energy, reducing costs, and contributing to a greener future.There’s no reason to hold back from making the switch to solar. With minimal upkeep and maximum savings, solar energy is the smartest choice for your home or business. Get the most out of your solar investment. Contact us below for a free quote!