As they can be difficult to access, your mounted solar array is generally maintained by your solar installer and you are not required to perform maintenance on it. Luckily, solar panels require very little maintenance on behalf of the homeowner over the course of their lifespan. In fact, some even believe that scheduled professional cleaning is a waste of time as very few solar users report noticing a difference in efficiency after a clean.

Cleaning duties aside, like any piece of technology solar panels do require the occasional checkup and are subject to wear and tear. Here are the main duties required to maintain solar panels at their optimum performance levels. We suggest you start off with a chat with your company when they install your system to find out what is required of you.

Here are the main ways solar power system needs to be maintained:

1. Solar Panel Maintenance

While some consider this an incredibly low priority, it’s still important to understand the fundamentals in the off chance your house get hit by a sudden sandstorm or the cobwebs get too thick. This process simply involves giving your panels a hose down, or if you’re feeling particularly inspired using some soapy water. If you feel that your solar panels need a particularly good clean, you can book a professional clean through your installer.

In terms of damage, wear and tear of your system always call your installer so that they can address the issue themselves. Absolutely never attempt to repair your solar power system yourself, as the damage will not be covered by your warranty and you could worsen the problem. If you can’t get in contact with your installer or they appear to have gone out of business, either contact the manufacturer or brand of the solar panels or visit our Solaprotect page.

2. Solar Controller & Battery Maintenance

Controller

The function of a charge controller is to block reverse current electricity and prevent battery overcharge. Certain controllers also limit battery over-discharge, protect from electrical overload and display the flow of power between the inverter and the solar battery. The charge controller is very important, however requires little maintenance other than visual inspection from the homeowner’s perspective.

Battery

Much like its charge controller, solar batteries are a complex piece of technology that require professional maintenance and cannot be maintained by a homeowner.

  • Visual inspection of the modules to check for defects, cracks, chips, delamination, fogged glazing, water leaks and discoloration.
  • Visual inspection of the mounting frame, including bolts and fastenings for rust and wear and tear

As every solar power system is slightly different we once again recommend following any additional advice given by your installer and the instructions in any documentation or user’s manual.

Again, we recommend following any additional advice given by your installer and the instructions in any documentation or user’s manual.

What To Do When Your Solar Panels, Controller or Battery Needs Maintenance:

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Visually inspect your solar inverter. Try to avoid touching any elements yourself – this is for safety reasons as well as to avoid any unnecessary system damage. If possible, take photos of any particular areas you are concerned about.

Step 2: Refer to Solar Manual & Solar Warranty

Read the procedures outlined in your Solar Manual and Solar Warranty. This will provide you with tailored advice and action points regarding your system. It may also give suggestions on quick fixes you can make yourself – it could be as easy as pressing a button.

Step 3: Call Your Solar Company

At Australian Solar Quotes, we’re all about picking up the phone and connecting with people directly. We guarantee it is usually a lot quicker that waiting by the computer for an email response while your solar wiring & connections are damaging your solar power system’s performance.