At MPV Solar, our goal is to help you get the most out of your solar panel system. Regular solar maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring maximum energy production, prolonging the lifespan of your investment, and preventing costly repairs. While professional inspections are essential, there are simple DIY maintenance tasks you can do to keep your solar panels in top condition. To help you safely and effectively maintain your system, here are some important do’s and don’ts for DIY solar panel maintenance.

1. Keep Panels Clean and Clear of Debris
Dirt, dust, leaves, bird droppings, and snow can accumulate on your panels and reduce their efficiency. Gently clean your panels with a soft sponge or cloth and water. Use a mild soap if necessary, but avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the surface. Make sure to do this on a sunny or dry day to prevent water spots and facilitate quick drying. Signs your solar system requires cleaning.

2. Inspect for Physical Damage Regularly
Perform visual checks of your panels and mounting equipment. Look for cracks, chips, discolouration, or any signs of physical damage. Also, examine wiring and connections for corrosion, fraying, or looseness. Catching minor issues early can prevent bigger problems down the road.

3. Trim Nearby Vegetation
Ensure trees or shrubs are not shading your panels, especially during peak sunlight hours. Regular trimming of nearby branches helps maximise your system’s exposure to sunlight and keeps your panels running efficiently.

4. Monitor System Performance
Use your monitoring platform or app to regularly check energy production and system health. Keep an eye on any sudden drops in output or error messages. Early detection of performance issues enables quicker resolution. Learn more on solar system monitoring.

5. Follow Safety Precautions
Always prioritise safety when inspecting or cleaning your panels. Use a sturdy ladder if needed, wear gloves, and avoid working in wet or windy conditions. If you’re uncomfortable working at height or dealing with electrical components, contact a professional.

1. Don’t Use Harsh or Abrasive Cleaners
Avoid strong chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scrubbers that can damage the glass surface or protective coatings. These can reduce your panels’ efficiency and longevity.

2. Don’t Climb on Your Roof Without Proper Safety Equipment
Working on your roof can be dangerous. If you need to access your panels, ensure you have proper safety gear and stable footing. If unsure, always hire professional technicians for roof work.

3. Don’t Attempt Electrical Repairs
Electric systems are dangerous. Avoid trying to repair wiring, inverters, or electrical components unless you are qualified and fully authorised. Improper handling can lead to injury or system damage. MPV Solar has an in-house electrical team. 

4. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs or System Alerts
If your monitoring system indicates a problem, don’t ignore it. Delaying professional diagnosis or repairs can lead to reduced system performance or costly damage. Contact MPV Solar. 

5. Don’t Use High-Pressure Water or Power Washers
High-pressure water can damage panels or dislodge connections. Stick to gentle cleaning methods and avoid any high-impact spraying that might cause harm.

Maintaining your solar panels doesn’t have to be complicated or dangerous if you follow the do’s and don’ts. Regular cleaning, inspections, and mindful monitoring are key to maximising your system’s performance and lifespan. When in doubt, trust the experts at MPV Solar to handle the more complex maintenance tasks and enjoy the clean energy benefits for years to come!

Need assistance or professional solar maintenance services?

Contact MPV Solar today and book a solar system clean and service.