Do My Solar Panels Need Maintenance?

If you have, or are interested in installing, solar panels on your home or business, you may be wondering about how much maintenance they’ll need throughout their 25+ year lifespan. Luckily, one of the many benefits of going solar is that panels are generally very low maintenance when properly installed. However, occasional upkeep can help ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your system. 

Six Rivers Solar has been a renewable energy leader on the North Coast since 1980, and we offer solar maintenance services throughout the area. Here’s everything you need to know about when maintenance services may be a good idea for your solar energy system:

When to Get Solar Panel Maintenance

When installed correctly, solar panels require minimal attention. Their durable design allows them to withstand various weather conditions, and they have no moving parts that could wear out quickly. However, there are a few occasions when calling in a professional team. like Six Rivers Solar, can help improve your system. 

Your Solar Production Has Dropped

Whether your solar monitoring system alerted you or you noticed a drop in how much energy your panels are generating, decreased production should always be a red flag. Our team can troubleshoot the issue and inspect your solar panels, wire connection, and battery storage system (if you have one) to find the source of the issue.

Visible Damage

Even though solar panels are extremely durable, they aren’t indestructible. If you’ve noticed signs of damage to your solar panels or other parts of your system, it’s a good idea to call our team for a professional inspection. Signs of damage may include: 

  • Loose or exposed wires
  • Hot spots
  • Cracked glass
  • Warping
  • Discoloration
  • Electrical issues

You Need Roof Repair

Anytime your roof needs repairs, it’s likely that your panels will need to be professionally removed and reinstalled. Working with a roofing contractor that is not experienced with solar panel installation could result in decreased production or even potential damage. This can be a large added expense, which is why we recommend replacing or repairing an aging roof before installing solar. 

After Extreme Weather

It’s always a good idea to get your solar panels inspected after severe storms or long dry periods to check for potential damage. Solar panels are built to withstand hail, hurricanes, strong winds, and even earthquakes, but sometimes disaster can still strike. 

What About Solar Panel Cleaning?

Over time, dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris can accumulate on your solar panels, blocking sunlight and reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning, at least once a year, can help prevent these issues and keep your solar energy system operating at its best. 

At Six Rivers Solar, we offer professional solar panel cleaning as part of our comprehensive maintenance services to help you maximize energy production and extend the life of your system. Our expert team is equipped with the right tools and techniques to safely and effectively clean your solar panels. We use gentle, eco-friendly cleaning solutions and soft materials to avoid scratching the surface of your panels while ensuring a thorough clean.

Six Rivers Solar: Your Go-To Solar Company in the North Coast

As the solar company locals trust, we’re proud to work in the Redwood Curtain and provide renewable energy for our community. If you have or want solar in the area, our team can help ensure your system operates at peak performance throughout its lifespan. We work with:

Protect your panels and schedule solar maintenance today. Call 707-443-5652 or contact us online for more information.