One of the best things about solar panels is how little attention they need. There are no moving parts, they work quietly in the background, and most of the time you can forget they're even there.
But "low-maintenance" isn't the same as "no maintenance". Like anything that lives outdoors all year round, solar panels benefit from a little care. A regular service and clean helps your system keep generating well, spots small problems before they become big ones, and protects what is a valuable investment.
What Holds Solar Panels Back in Devon?
Our part of the world is beautiful, but it can be tough on anything left on a roof. Common culprits we come across include:
- Salt spray on coastal homes, which can leave a film on the glass.
- Bird droppings, which block light and can be stubborn to shift.
- Lichen and moss, which thrive in our mild, damp climate, especially on lower-pitched roofs.
- Dust and debris from farms, building sites and busy roads.
- Leaves and tree sap from nearby trees.
Rain will wash away some light dust, but it won't deal with everything. Over time, a build-up of dirt can reduce how much sunlight reaches the cells, which means less electricity for your home.
What's Included in a Solar Service?
A proper solar service is about much more than a quick wipe. When we service a system, we look at the whole thing:
- Panel inspection: checking the glass and frames for damage, cracks or signs of wear.
- Mounting and fixings: making sure everything is secure, which is especially important after a stormy winter.
- Cabling and connections: looking for anything loose, damaged or chewed.
- Inverter checks: making sure it's working properly and not showing faults.
- Isolators and safety devices: confirming they're in good working order.
- Performance check: reviewing how the system is generating and flagging anything that doesn't look right.
- Battery check: if you have battery storage, we'll make sure it's working as it should.
If we spot anything that needs attention, we'll explain it clearly and give you your options, with no pressure and no surprises.
Cleaning: Done Carefully and Safely
Cleaning solar panels isn't a job for a pressure washer or a bucket of household cleaner, and it's certainly not worth risking a fall from a ladder. Harsh chemicals and rough tools can damage the glass or coatings, and working at height without the right equipment is dangerous.
We clean panels carefully, using gentle methods that remove dirt without harming the panels. The aim is simple: let as much light through as possible, safely.
Why Regular Servicing Is Worth It
- Keeps output up: Clean, healthy panels make the most of the sunlight they receive.
- Catches problems early: A loose connection or failing component is usually cheaper and easier to fix when it's found early.
- Extends system life: Looking after your system helps it keep performing for longer.
- Supports your insurance and warranties: Some insurers and manufacturers expect systems to be properly maintained, so it's worth checking your policy and warranty terms. A record of regular servicing can help.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your system has been checked by a qualified team is reassuring, particularly given the importance of safe solar workmanship. You can read more about that in our post on why professional workmanship matters for solar and electrical safety.
How Often Should Panels Be Serviced?
For most homes, an annual service is a good rule of thumb. Some properties, such as those near the coast, close to farms or under trees, may benefit from more frequent cleaning. We're happy to recommend a schedule that suits your home.
A good tip in the meantime: keep an eye on your monitoring app. If you notice generation dropping noticeably compared with similar weather in previous months, it could be a sign that something needs looking at.
Book a Solar Service with Swaye
Whether your panels are a few years old or you can't remember the last time anyone looked at them, we can help. Find out more on our solar panels in Devon page, or get in touch to book.
Swaye Group
- Call: 01752 200496 or 07916 733824
- Email: info@swayegroup.com
- Visit: Unit CF16, Redlake Trading Estate, Ivybridge, PL21 0EZ