Solar panels are designed to be low-maintenance, but regular care ensures they perform at their best throughout their 25+ year lifespan.
Regular Cleaning
Dust, bird droppings, pollen and other debris can reduce panel output by 5-25%. In dusty Indian conditions, panels should ideally be cleaned every 2-4 weeks. Use plain water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive materials or high-pressure water jets that can damage the panel surface.
Visual Inspection
Periodically inspect your panels for visible damage such as cracks, discolouration, or hotspots. Check the mounting structure for corrosion, loose bolts, or any signs of movement. Look at the wiring for wear, rodent damage, or exposed conductors.
Monitor Performance
If your system has a monitoring portal or app, check it regularly. A sudden drop in generation that is not explained by weather could indicate a fault. Compare monthly generation figures year-over-year to identify gradual performance degradation.
Professional Service
Schedule a professional inspection and service at least once a year. A technician can check electrical connections, test inverter performance, verify earthing resistance, inspect the DC and AC protection devices, and perform thermal imaging to detect hotspots.
Annual Maintenance Contracts
Consider an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) with your solar installer. AMCs typically cover scheduled cleaning visits, electrical inspections, inverter servicing, performance reports, and priority support for any issues.