Beacon Power and Pump
Complete Energy & Well System Solutions
Beacon Power and Pump
Complete Energy & Well System Solutions
After Spokane's long winter, give your solar panels the attention they
deserve.
A clean, well-maintained system can boost energy production by
20-30% and extend your panels' 25-year lifespan.
Regular maintenance keeps your solar system performing at its best. Follow these six steps to ensure your panels continue generating maximum power for years to come.
Before doing any maintenance, always turn off your solar system at the disconnect switch near your inverter. This prevents electrical shock and ensures you can safely inspect and clean your panels. If you're not comfortable working on a roof, hire a professional. Never work on panels during wet conditions or when they're still generating power.
Clear away leaves, twigs, bird droppings, pollen, and other debris that has accumulated over the winter months. Use a soft brush or leaf blower for loose debris—avoid abrasive tools that could scratch the glass surface. For Spokane homes near trees, this step may need to be repeated more frequently during fall and spring.
For stubborn grime, use a soft-bristled brush and plain water. Work from top to bottom to avoid redistributing dirty water onto clean areas. For hard water deposits common in our area, consider using distilled water or a small amount of mild, biodegradable soap. Never use harsh chemicals, pressure washers, or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the anti-reflective coating.
Your inverter is the heart of your system—check that indicator lights show normal operation (usually green). Log into your monitoring app and compare energy production to previous years. A 10-15% drop in output could indicate a problem. Spokane's cold winters can sometimes cause condensation issues; if you see moisture inside the inverter casing, call a professional immediately.
Visually inspect conduit and wiring for damage from winter weather, rodents, or settling. Look for frayed cables, loose connections at the combiner box, and any signs of chewing or wear. Check that ground mounts and roof attachments are secure. Snow load and ice can stress mounting hardware—re-tighten any loose bolts and replace rusted hardware.
Keep a maintenance log tracking monthly production. Schedule a professional inspection every 2-3 years for a thorough electrical check and panel performance analysis. Annual professional cleaning is recommended if your panels are ground-mounted or hard to access. Budget $100-$300 for professional maintenance—cheaper than the 15-25% efficiency loss from neglected panels.
Our solar experts at Beacon Power & Pump can handle everything from routine cleaning to complete system inspections. Keep your panels performing at peak efficiency with professional service.