Maintenance of Solar Systems

Solar panels require almost no maintenance.  Below are some notes of interest.

What level of service or maintenance is required with solar installations?

Solar panels require almost no maintenance, making them a low-effort and reliable source of energy for homeowners and businesses alike. However, there are a few key areas to be aware of to ensure optimal performance throughout the lifespan of the system.

University of San Diego researchers found that cleaning solar panels is rarely necessary, as less than 0.05 percent of energy is lost per day due to dirt. Rain typically washes away most dirt and debris, making professional cleaning an unnecessary expense in most cases. However, there are exceptions. Panels installed at less than a 5-degree angle may not self-clean effectively with rain, and panels located near highways, factories, or agricultural fields can accumulate dust that may require cleaning. Heavy bird droppings can also block enough sunlight to affect energy production.

If cleaning is needed, it’s essential to avoid high-pressure water or abrasive materials, which can damage the panels. Always check with your installer for proper cleaning guidance to maintain the efficiency and longevity of your solar system.

Source: The Sierra Club

• Natural Events: While solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, in rare cases major storms may cause damage. In this case you will want a trusted long lasting solar installer to call. In an ideal scenario the company will have been in business for more than a decade.

  
  

• Critter Damage: Animals such as squirrels or birds may sometimes interfere with wiring beneath the panels. In these cases, installing critter guards can prevent future damage, and any existing issues can be repaired by a reputable solar company.

What is the Lifespan of an Inverter?

Inverters typically need replacement after 10 to 15 years. This is one of the only components of the system that may require servicing during the life of the solar installation. Keeping track of inverter age and planning for a replacement can help prevent any unexpected interruptions in energy production.

• Proactive Replacement: While an inverter is designed to last a decade or more, it’s a good idea to budget for replacement every 10 to 15 years to ensure continuous energy production without downtime. Most inverters for a 10kW system will cost around $1500.

What is the Lifespan of a Solar Panel?

Solar panels typically last around 25 to 30 years, with most warranties guaranteeing at least 80% of their original efficiency at the end of that period.

• End-of-Warranty Performance: After the warranty period ends, panels generally continue to operate for many years. If a homeowner wishes to upgrade or replace them with newer, more efficient models, it can be a good option to boost energy production.

  Source: Ontario Society of Professional Engineers

Additional Situations Requiring Service:

• Snow Buildup: In some regions with heavy snowfall, snow accumulation may temporarily block the panels from receiving sunlight. While snow typically slides off the panels once it begins to melt, in extreme cases, homeowners may choose to gently clear the snow if it obstructs production for an extended period.

• Severe Weather Inspections: After events such as hurricanes or hailstorms, it can be useful to perform a visual inspection to ensure the panels are secure and undamaged. Monitoring systems should also detect any drop in performance, but a physical inspection may provide peace of mind.