It is a fair question. If you are investing in solar panels, you want to understand what ongoing maintenance looks like.
The reassuring answer is this. Solar panels are low maintenance. A properly installed solar PV system has no moving parts and is designed to sit on your roof for decades, generating electricity quietly in the background.
But low maintenance does not mean no maintenance at all.
Like anything exposed to the British weather year-round, solar panels benefit from sensible upkeep. The good news is that it is simple and predictable.
Solar panels rely on clear access to sunlight. Over time, a layer of dust, pollution, bird droppings or pollen can build up on the surface. Even a thin film can reduce how much light reaches the cells.
When that happens, solar panel efficiency drops. The system still works, but it may not produce as much electricity as it should. That can mean buying more power from the grid, especially during spring and summer when output should be at its highest.
Left unchecked, heavier build-up can also:
Solar panels are built to last, but they are not self-maintaining.
For most homes in Surrey, cleaning once or twice a year is enough. Spring and autumn are usually the best times.
A spring clean prepares your solar panels for the brighter months ahead. An autumn clean removes summer dust and organic matter before winter weather arrives.
If your panels sit under trees or attract regular bird activity, more frequent cleaning may be needed. Every property is different, which is why advice should be based on your roof and surroundings.
If you cannot remember the last time your panels were cleaned, it is likely time to have them reviewed.
Rain helps, but it does not remove everything. It can wash away loose dust, but stubborn grime and bird mess often remain. In some cases, rainwater can leave mineral deposits behind.
Using the wrong equipment can do more harm than good. Harsh brushes or untreated tap water can scratch the glass or leave residue. Climbing onto a roof without the right safety equipment also carries obvious risks.
Our sister company, Sheerwater Clean, provides safe and gentle solar panel cleaning across Surrey. The process is designed to protect your panels while restoring performance:
It is a careful approach that focuses on protection, not shortcuts.
A proper clean can improve performance by up to 20 percent, particularly in the months when sunlight matters most.
Cleaning is one part of ongoing solar maintenance, but it is not the only one.
Modern solar PV systems include monitoring software that allows you to track energy production. If output suddenly drops, you can spot it early.
Occasional professional system checks are also sensible. These typically involve:
Solar inverters generally last around 10 to 15 years and may need replacing once during the lifetime of your panels. That is a normal part of the system lifecycle and can be planned for.
With sensible maintenance, your system will continue to reduce electricity bills, improve energy independence and deliver reliable performance year after year.
Solar panels do not demand constant attention. They simply need looking after properly.
If you are unsure whether your panels need cleaning or a general check, we are always happy to offer straightforward advice. And if a clean is needed, Sheerwater Clean can carry it out safely on an annual or bi-annual plan that suits your home.
Solar is a long-term investment. A little ongoing care helps it perform at its best.
Get in touch today for expert advice.
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Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.
Alternatively, fill in our online form for a swift response.
What happens next?
In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.
We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.