Do solar panels need to be maintained?
Solar panels generally require very little maintenance in order to function, so yes, you can usually just let them be. The only thing most solar panels need is a periodic light cleaning to make sure dirt, leaves, and other debris aren't obstructing the sun's rays. You may also want to check underneath the panels for debris or signs of animals, and potentially spring for solar critter guards if this becomes an issue.
The only time you may need more extensive maintenance is if you discover signs of animals nesting under your system (in which case you may need solar critter guards) and during periods of heavy snowfall, as large amounts of snow on solar panels can hinder their performance.
Can you monitor the health of your solar panels?
If your panels’ energy output starts to decrease, you can monitor it via an app. Lower energy output could be a sign that your panels are obstructed by something, like debris, and cannot generate their typical electricity amount.
By integrating a solar panel monitoring system into your setup, you can track how much energy your panels produce on any given day and how much they produce over time. This allows you to see exactly how various external factors affect your panels' performance and how well they're maintaining their efficiency across their life. The monitoring system will also alert you if a panel breaks or malfunctions so that you can repair or replace it.
Let's take a closer look at how to make sure your solar panels last as long as possible.
How do you maintain solar panels?
If your panels are tilted, you’re in luck: rainfall will actually clear away debris that's accumulated on them. However, during the dry season or extended periods without rain, it's important to clean them manually.
It is generally recommended that you perform solar panel cleaning between two and four times per year. While that might seem like a lot, the good news is that this doesn’t require much work. All you really need is a leaf blower or a quick spray with a garden hose, and your panels will be clean and in top condition.
How does extreme weather impact your solar panels?
Solar panels are designed to be durable. Top-quality solar panel installations allow PV systems to withstand all kinds of weather, from wind and rain to snow and more.
Of course, they are not 100% indestructible; on rare occasions, they can suffer damage by hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. But as long as you have a good warranty, you should be able to have any damaged panels repaired or replaced.