Switching to solar power is an exciting step toward lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. Once your photovoltaic (PV) system is in place, it’s easy to forget about the panels silently producing electricity on your roof. However, solar panel maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring your system continues to perform efficiently for decades to come. Let’s explore why maintenance matters, how often you should do it, and the best ways to keep your panels clean and productive.
Why clean solar panels?
Even though PV systems are designed to be low‑maintenance, they sit outdoors where they’re exposed to dust, pollen, bird droppings and pollution. When dirt accumulates on a panel’s glass surface, less sunlight reaches the photovoltaic cells. Research and industry analyses show that a mere 5 % reduction in light can cause a 10–25 % drop in energy output. For large arrays, this can translate into substantial lost generation. Cleaning and inspecting your panels periodically avoids this gradual decline.
Soiling can also lead to more drastic losses in extreme environments. The US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) notes that energy lost to dust and soot ranges from about 7 % in some regions to as high as 50 % in arid climates. Thankfully, the UK’s temperate climate and regular rainfall help wash away debris, but a little care goes a long way in safeguarding your investment.
How often should you clean and inspect?
According to the UK’s Energy Saving Trust, rooftop solar panels typically need cleaning every 12–18 months to maintain efficiency. The frequency depends on where you live. In areas with frequent rain or panels mounted at a tilt of 15° or more, the rain washes much of the grime away. In drier regions, near farmland or under trees, dust and pollen accumulate faster. Factors that influence cleaning needs include:
- Location: Panels near busy roads, industrial sites or farmland collect more dust.
- Weather: Prolonged dry spells allow dirt to build up; rain helps remove it.
- Tilt angle: Low‑pitched or flat panels retain debris and bird droppings.
- Environment: Overhanging branches increase leaf litter and shading; nesting birds can create a mess on the panels.
Beyond cleaning, schedule visual inspections every few months to check for obvious debris or damage, and book a professional inspection annually or every few years to ensure wiring, mounting hardware and inverters are in good condition. Keeping trees trimmed around your array also helps prevent shading and leaf buildup.
Buildup-Step Solar Panel Maintenance Guide
If your panels are accessible and you feel confident, you can carry out a gentle clean yourself. Always follow safety guidelines and the instructions provided by your installer. Here’s a simple procedure adapted from the Energy Saving Trust’s advice:
- Choose cool weather. Clean in the morning or evening so water doesn’t evaporate instantly and leave streaks.
- Turn off the system. Consult your manual for the correct shutdown procedure.
- Inspect for damage. Look for cracked glass, loose cabling or corrosion. If you spot damage, stop and contact a professional.
- Stay grounded if possible. Use a telescopic pole with a soft brush to clean from the ground, which is safer than climbing on the roof.
- Use gentle tools. A bucket of lukewarm water, a few drops of biodegradable soap and a long‑handled soft brush or cloth will remove most dirt.
- Rinse with a hose. A gentle spray from a garden hose is sufficient; avoid pressure washers because they can damage seals and wiring.
- Dry carefully. Use a soft squeegee to remove excess water and prevent streaks, especially in hard‑water areas.
What not to do
- Don’t use washing‑up liquid or harsh chemicals, as they can leave a film on the glass and attract dust.
- Never stand or lean on panels. They’re not designed to support weight and can crack.
- Avoid power washers. High pressure can penetrate seals and cause water damage.
DIY versus professional cleaning
Not everyone has the right equipment or confidence to clean panels safely. Hiring a professional makes sense when panels are on a steep or two‑storey roof, or if your property has an extensive array. Professionals use harnesses, deionised water and specialised brushes, ensuring thorough cleaning without scratching the surface.
Professional cleaning also allows for a more comprehensive inspection. Technicians check for cracked glass, delamination, damaged wiring and signs of water ingress or inverter malfunction. They may also tighten mounting bolts and verify that your panels are angled correctly for optimal performance. Hiring an expert reduces the risk of injury and preserves manufacturer warranties, which may require professional maintenance at set intervals.
In terms of cost, the Energy Saving Trust notes that professional cleaning usually costs between £20 and £200, depending on system size and location. When balanced against potential energy losses and damage, this is a small price for peace of mind.
Solar Panel Maintenance doesn’t stop at the panels
Inverter and electrical checks
While panels have lifespans of 25 years or more, other components require attention. Solar inverters, which convert DC from the panels into AC for your home, typically need replacing every 10–15 years and cost around £800. Many inverters include online monitoring and will email you if a fault is detected. Regularly check your inverter’s display for error codes and ensure it’s in a well‑ventilated area.
Monitoring performance
Most modern PV systems come with Wi‑Fi monitoring apps. They allow you to track daily and cumulative generation, battery charge (if installed) and export/import data. If you notice a sudden or gradual decline in output unrelated to weather or season, it could indicate shading, dirt buildup, or a buildupverter issue. Taking action promptly prevents prolonged losses.
Batteries and hybrid systems
If your system includes battery storage, it’s wise to incorporate battery checks into your maintenance routine. Technicians can test cell voltage and replace ageing components. A properly maintained battery ensures that surplus power stored during the day is available at night, maximising the financial benefits of your investment.
Emerging technologies and innovations
Beyond manual cleaning, new products are making solar panel maintenance easier. Automated cleaning systems, such as sprinkler bars or robotic brushes, help keep panels clean on commercial arrays or hard‑to‑reach roofs. These systems are particularly useful in dusty environments where natural rainfall is insufficient. Researchers are also developing sensors that measure soiling levels in real time; NREL’s patented technology shines an LED through the glass and measures the loss in transmission. In the future, your solar system may notify you when cleaning is needed, further simplifying upkeep.
Another emerging trend involves anti‑soiling coatings applied to the glass. These hydrophobic layers repel water and dust, reducing the frequency of cleaning. While not yet widespread, they could become common on high‑end panels in the coming years.
The financial and environmental payoff
Maintaining your solar panels isn’t just about aesthetics. Efficient, clean panels generate more electricity, increasing the return on your investment and cutting your electricity bills. Preventing a 10–25 % drop in energy output due to soiling means more free energy and less reliance on the grid. Proper maintenance also ensures your system meets the performance criteria required for feed‑in tariff or Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments.
Environmental benefits matter too. A clean, well‑performing PV system reduces your home’s carbon emissions and supports the UK’s transition to net‑zero. When your panels produce more energy, you offset more fossil‑fuel generation and accelerate the payback period on your system.
Why choose Flux Solar Energy for your solar panel maintenance needs?
At Flux Solar Energy, we understand that installing solar panels is just the start of your renewable journey. As a Bolton‑based, MCS‑certified installer, our team not only designs and fits bespoke solar systems but also provides ongoing support and maintenance. Our solar panel installation services include guidance on cleaning schedules, warranty documentation and Wi‑Fi monitoring. We offer annual maintenance checks to inspect your panels, inverter and mounting system, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
If you’re considering adding battery storage or optimisers to your existing system, we can design upgrades that improve performance and maximise your self‑consumption. For customers in Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Preston and beyond, our friendly team is available to advise on all aspects of solar panel maintenance.
Take control of your solar investment.
A little maintenance goes a long way in protecting your solar investment. By cleaning your panels every 12–18 months, scheduling regular inspections and keeping an eye on your system’s performance, you can keep your PV array operating efficiently for decades. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a professional, the rewards are clear: more free electricity, lower bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Do you need solar panel maintenance? Contact Flux Solar Energy for expert advice on cleaning, maintenance and upgrades. We’re here to help you enjoy clean power that lasts.
