Solar panel maintenance is one of the most overlooked—but critical—aspects of owning a solar energy system. Many homeowners assume that once their system is installed, it’s completely hands-off. While solar panels are low-maintenance by design, knowing how to maintain solar panels ensures they operate at peak performance and deliver long-term savings.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the importance of solar panel maintenance, what to look out for, how to care for your system through every season, and why regular inspections matter—especially for homes in New Jersey.
Why Solar Panel Maintenance Matters
You’ve made the investment. Now it’s time to protect it. Solar panels are exposed to the elements 24/7—sun, rain, snow, debris, and wind all play a role in system performance over time. Without regular check-ins, even the most efficient solar systems can lose up to 15–25% of their output due to dirt buildup, shading, or technical issues.
Proper solar panel maintenance helps you:
- Maximize your monthly energy savings
- Extend the lifespan of your system (25+ years)
- Avoid unexpected repairs or power dips
- Keep your warranty valid
How to Maintain Solar Panels: Start with the Basics
Knowing how to maintain solar panels starts with a few routine checks and tasks that homeowners can easily perform or schedule through professionals. Here are the essentials:
1. Visual Inspections
Check your panels monthly—either from the ground with binoculars or up-close (only if it’s safe to do so). Look for:
- Debris like leaves, pollen, or bird droppings
- Discoloration or physical damage (cracks, chips)
- Shading from growing trees or added structures
If anything looks unusual or performance has dropped, it’s time for a closer look.
2. Cleaning Solar Panels
Dirt and grime can accumulate slowly, reducing sunlight absorption. Panels don’t need constant cleaning, but every six months to a year is recommended—more often if you live near a construction site, have heavy pollen seasons, or experience frequent bird activity.
Best practices for cleaning:
- Use a soft hose and a sponge or microfiber cloth
- Avoid pressure washers or harsh chemicals
- Clean early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid thermal shock
For larger or roof-mounted systems, it’s safest to schedule professional cleaning.
Seasonal Solar Panel Maintenance Tips
New Jersey’s four distinct seasons bring different challenges for solar panel care. Here’s how to stay ahead all year long:
Spring Maintenance
- Wash off accumulated pollen and dust
- Inspect after winter storms for cracks or wear
- Prune nearby trees that may begin to shade panels
Summer Maintenance
- Monitor output during high heat—panels are less efficient when extremely hot
- Ensure inverter ventilation is unobstructed
- Watch for nests or pests around mounting systems
Fall Maintenance
- Clear falling leaves that may settle on or near the system
- Inspect racking and mounting as weather shifts
- Schedule a professional inspection before winter
Winter Maintenance
- Remove snow buildup using a roof rake with a soft edge
- Check for ice dams or icicles near panel edges
- Don’t use sharp tools or de-icing chemicals
Tip: Panels are often self-clearing when tilted at the correct angle, especially in sunny weather following snow.
Monitoring Your System’s Performance
One of the easiest ways to stay on top of solar panel maintenance is by regularly checking your system’s performance through your solar monitoring app or inverter display.
Watch for:
- Unexpected dips in power output
- Alerts or fault warnings from the inverter
- Month-over-month production changes that don’t match weather conditions
Many systems will send alerts automatically, but a quick weekly check can give you peace of mind.
Common Maintenance Issues and How to Handle Them
Even with routine care, minor issues can pop up. Here’s how to identify and respond:
Loose Wiring or Connections
Over time, temperature changes can loosen electrical connections. Look for flickering lights or system errors and call your installer if you suspect an issue.
Inverter Problems
The inverter is the most vulnerable part of your system. If it fails, your panels won’t convert power efficiently. Be on the lookout for fault codes or a red indicator light.
Pest Damage
Birds, squirrels, and other critters can nest under panels or chew wiring. Install mesh barriers or contact a solar professional to pest-proof your array.
Microcracks in Panels
These hairline fractures can develop from severe weather or impact. They’re hard to spot but may lower efficiency. Thermal imaging or professional inspection can detect them early.
How to Know When It’s Time for Professional Service
While there are plenty of steps you can take yourself, professional solar technicians are trained to catch deeper system issues that aren’t always visible.
Schedule a full inspection if you notice:
- A consistent drop in energy production
- Visual damage to the panels or mounting system
- Error messages from the inverter or monitoring system
- You haven’t had a check-up in 12–18 months
At Mack Solar and Roofing, we recommend an annual inspection to keep your system performing like new.
The Cost of Solar Panel Maintenance vs. Savings
Worried about maintenance costs? Don’t be. Most solar systems are built to last with minimal upkeep, and the cost of a yearly check-up or professional cleaning is far outweighed by the savings a high-performing system delivers.
Estimated Maintenance Costs:
- DIY cleaning supplies: $10–$30
- Professional cleaning: $150–$300 annually
- Full system inspection: Often included with service plans
Even just a 10% drop in performance can cost you hundreds of dollars a year. Staying proactive keeps your savings on track and protects your investment.
Keeping Your Warranty Valid
Most solar panel manufacturers offer 25-year performance warranties, but they come with a catch—you must properly maintain your system. Skipping routine care or allowing damage to go unaddressed can void your warranty.
To stay compliant:
- Document inspections and cleanings
- Keep a record of any repairs or service visits
- Use certified professionals when service is needed
Helpful Resources for Solar Maintenance
For those who want to learn more about maintaining solar panels or troubleshooting common issues, here are two excellent resources:
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL): Offers technical guides on solar technology and upkeep. (source)
- U.S. Department of Energy – Solar Basics: Great for understanding performance factors and homeowner responsibilities. (source)
These organizations provide trustworthy, up-to-date information without trying to sell you a service.
Protect Your System and Your Savings
Maintaining your solar panels doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be consistent. With just a few proactive steps each season and annual professional checkups, you’ll keep your system running efficiently for decades.
At Mack Solar and Roofing, we offer full-service solar care, including panel inspections, cleaning, system diagnostics, and roofing integrity checks. As both licensed roofing and solar contractors, we ensure your panels and your roof are always working together—not against each other.
Get a Free Inspection and Keep Your Solar Running Strong
If you’re not sure how your system is performing—or just want peace of mind—now’s the perfect time to schedule a professional checkup.
Get a free inspection now and let our experts evaluate your system’s health and performance. Whether you’ve had solar for one year or ten, we’ll help you stay efficient, protected, and powered up.
