Solar panel maintenance tips for homeowners in Sussex
Investing in solar panels is a great way to reduce your bills, offset your carbon usage and become energy-independent. And for Sussex homeowners, solar panels are an especially smart choice, as the region is one of the sunnier spots in the UK – three of the top ten sunniest places in the country are located in East and West Sussex[1].
When it comes to solar panel maintenance, the good news is that your home solar system will not require intensive and time-consuming maintenance to keep it operating efficiently and providing you with the best possible energy output.
However, like any significant home installation, you will need to do a small amount of regular maintenance – and in this blog, we share our top solar panel maintenance tips, with a particular focus on panels installed at coastal residences.
General solar panel maintenance tips
Regular cleaning
- Dust and debris: Regularly check the panels to avoid the build-up of dust, leaves, and other debris that can obstruct sunlight and reduce efficiency. Use a soft brush or a leaf blower to remove loose debris
- Bird droppings: These can significantly impact the efficiency of solar panels. Clean them off promptly using a water and a mild soap solution if necessary
- Rainfall: In Sussex, the frequent rainfall can help clean the panels, but it’s still advisable to manually clean them periodically, especially during dry spells
Check for shading
- Ensure that no new obstructions, like growing trees or newly constructed buildings, cast shadows on your solar panels. Shading can significantly reduce the system’s performance
Inspect for damage
- Visual inspection: Check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or chips in the panels, which could affect performance
- Wiring and connections: Inspect the wiring and electrical connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
Monitor system performance
- Use monitoring systems to track the performance of your solar panels. Any significant drop in energy production could indicate a problem that needs addressing.
Professional maintenance
- Schedule an annual maintenance check with a professional solar panel technician. Usually this will only need to be a straightforward check, but asking a professional will ensure that if more detailed inspection work or any specialist repairs or cleaning are required, you’ll receive expert guidance
Solar panel maintenance for seafront homes in Sussex
Homes on the coast often benefit from plenty of sunlight, making solar panels an excellent choice for residents of seaside locations, but these places are also subject to strong winds and salt build-up from the sea air.
Salt buildup
- Regular cleaning: Salt can accumulate on the panels, reducing their efficiency. Regularly rinse the panels with fresh water to remove salt deposits
- Protective coatings: Consider applying a protective coating specifically designed for solar panels to minimise salt damage and buildup – your installer will be able to advise you
Wind damage
- Secure mounting: Ensure that the solar panels are securely mounted to withstand strong winds common in coastal areas. Use high-quality, corrosion-resistant mounts and fixings
- Check after storms: Inspect the panels and mounting system after storms or periods of high winds to ensure there are no loose or damaged components
Corrosion prevention
- Materials: Use corrosion-resistant materials for all components, including frames, mounts, and electrical connections
- Regular inspections: Frequently inspect for signs of corrosion and address any issues immediately to prevent further damage
Wildlife protection
- Birds and rodents: Coastal areas can attract birds and rodents, which might nest around or under the panels, potentially damaging wiring. Install bird netting or other deterrents to keep wildlife away from the panels
Seasonal solar panel maintenance tips
Spring:
- Clean panels to remove winter grime
- Inspect for any damage caused by storms
Summer:
- Ensure no new shading from seasonal plant growth – keep branches trimmed back where necessary
- Check for salt and dust buildup and clean more frequently if necessary
Autumn:
- Remove fallen leaves and other debris
- Inspect and prepare the system for winter weather – your local solar panel installer may be able to advise you on what to look for
Winter:
- Monitor for snow and ice accumulation (though less common in Sussex, it can happen)
- Ensure the system is operating efficiently during shorter daylight hours
By following these maintenance tips, you’ll ensure your solar panels remain in optimal condition, providing you with clean, efficient energy for years to come. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of the panels but also maximises their energy production, ensuring an excellent return on your investment.
