Solar panel maintenance: what’s needed and what it costs

Solar panels can deliver decades of electric bill savings, but when you go solar are you signing up for much more responsibility? Who’s going to take care of these solar panels, anyway?

While solar panels have the multidecade lifespan of a relatively long-lived pet, they take much less work. From required maintenance to expected cost, here’s what you should know.

Do solar panels need maintenance?

Home solar panels are very reliable and can provide trouble-free performance for 25 years or more. It's good to regularly check your system’s performance

You might also want to periodically clean your panels. Rainfall will rinse dirt from your panels, but you can also rinse your panels by gently spraying them with a hose from the safety of the ground. Professional cleaning services are available, too, in case the hose isn’t cutting it.

If it rains enough to keep your panels clean, you won’t have much to do.

How to know my solar system needs maintenance

If you suspect your solar panels need maintenance, a good first step is to check their energy output and see if the system is generating the expected amount of power.

A solar production tracker like the Palmetto App makes it easy to spot changes in production. Start by determining how much power your home was receiving in the same month last year, and then compare this figure with the current production.

Reviewing your electricity bill is another way to get more insight. If there's a significant change in the amount of power you’re using from the grid, it may be time for a service call.

Some manufacturers also have an indicator light on their solar equipment that can alert you to problems by flashing or changing color.

Solar leases and maintenance

If you own your solar panels, you’re responsible for maintenance. If you lease your solar panels, you’re not. Because the leasing company owns your panels, it’s responsible for their maintenance and upkeep.  For example, your monthly payment with the Palmetto Energy Plan covers maintenance and most repairs.

Can I do my own solar service and maintenance?

Generally, no. While it’s safe to rinse your panels from the ground, working with electrical equipment on the roof is best left to professionals.

If you notice any changes in your power output, it may be time to contact a solar service expert. They'll check the system and fix any problems they find.

Roof-mounted vs ground-mounted solar maintenance

The only difference between roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar panels when it comes to maintenance is ease of access. It’s a lot easier to work on panels when they’re on the ground. Cleaning ground-mounted solar panels is pretty straightforward, as you can usually access them with a garden hose to give them a gentle rinse.

How much does solar power maintenance cost?

Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $750 or more for a typical solar maintenance or service visit.

That answer depends on variables like the system design, equipment manufacturer, maintenance contract, inverter type, panel condition, roof slant, house height, location, and the surrounding environment.

Solar panel maintenance plans

A solar maintenance plan can provide peace of mind against any common solar panel problems.

A solar maintenance package goes above and beyond the coverage your warranty provides. The warranty might cover a broken inverter, but the service package may provide additional benefits and guarantees like performance monitoring and labor coverage.

For example, Palmetto Protect offers proactive monitoring, intelligent issue detection, service and support, a 90% Performance Guarantee, and labor coverage.

Benefits of a solar maintenance package

With a robust solar protection plan, you'll enjoy a wide range of benefits. 

• Product warranties: You may make warranty claims on panels, inverters, installation, or roof penetrations through your maintenance plan. Panel warranties are typically 25 years; inverter warranties vary from 12-25 years depending on the type; workmanship warranties are commonly 10 years; and roof penetration warranties, five.
• Performance monitoring: Some plans may offer proactive monitoring that alerts you to problems before you notice them.
• Maintenance visits: Your provider may offer discounted or free maintenance visits when something goes wrong.
• Panel cleaning: Your plan may cover regular cleaning.
• Remote diagnostics and troubleshooting: Some solar panel issues can be solved remotely.
• Service network access: Get easy access to qualified technicians in your area.
• Performance guarantee: If your panels don’t produce as much as promised, you could get paid to cover the shortfall.
• Parts and labor coverage: Some plans offer additional coverage so you won’t pay for parts and labor.

Solar panels can provide you clean, cheap home energy and decades of savings. While maintenance issues are relatively rare, you’ll want to know you’re getting the service you need if something goes wrong. If you want to see how much you can save with solar, learn more about what solar could save you or get a free quote today.

Frequently asked questions

Do solar panels need maintenance?

Solar panels are typically low maintenance equipment, but issues can arise. Service and maintenance are best left to trained professionals.

Can I clean my solar panels myself?

Regular rain is typically enough to keep solar panels clear of dust that reduces the amount of sunlight panels receive. In particularly dry areas, you can clean your solar panels with a gentle stream of water from a garden hose. Do so during a cool part of the day from the safety of the ground.

How much does it cost to maintain a solar system?

Maintenance requirements for solar panels are fairly low. A service visit can vary from $300 to $750, depending on the issue and your location.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Palmetto does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors.