What do I need to do to maintain a solar panel?
Like any other piece of equipment, solar panels require regular maintenance in order to function properly and produce energy.
“Regular maintenance not only extends their lifespan, but also ensures better performance and therefore a better return on investment. “
What factors should be taken into account when calculating maintenance costs?
The average cost of maintaining a panel varies according to several factors: the type of system installed, the location of the panels, the accessibility and inclination of the roof, and the nature of the maintenance. As a general rule, the cost of maintaining a solar panel in Switzerland is estimated at 1% of the cost of the installation per year, including cleaning and maintenance (e.g. replacing an inverter). A derisory price compared to the benefits of a renewable energy installation. Of course, depending on the area in which the solar panel is installed, you’ll need to plan more or less regular maintenance.
The importance of maintaining your solar panels
Only regular servicing can ensure that your solar panels are always operating at optimum levels and free from defects. If there are any problems with your solar system, further diagnosis may be required, which may increase maintenance costs.
Alternatively, you may have noticed a reduction in your yield, in which case further cleaning may be required.
In all cases, it is advisable to call in a qualified professional rather than attempt repairs or cleaning on your own. He or she will analyse your installation in detail and take the appropriate measures to keep it in good working order.
How much does it cost to clean a solar panel?
Most of the time, solar panel maintenance includes cleaning to improve efficiency and productivity. The main factor influencing the cost of solar panel cleaning is the height of the installation. There are two possible scenarios.
- If the solar panels are located at a reasonable height, accessible with a telescopic pole, the service usually only takes half a day, which means lower costs.
- If the installation requires the use of scaffolding, the price of cleaning will be higher, as the professional will have to deploy additional equipment to carry out the work in good conditions.
- If the solar panels are located at a reasonable height on the ground or on a flat roof, and can be accessed using a telescopic pole or a robot, the service usually only takes half a day (depending on the number of panels), which means lower costs.
- If the installation requires the use of a gondola to climb onto the roof, the price of cleaning will be higher, as the professional will have to deploy additional equipment to carry out the service in good conditions.
All installations are different, which is why it’s imperative to visit the facility before making an offer.
The benefits of solar panel maintenance
For solar panels to work to their full potential, they need to be maintained regularly. Regular maintenance keeps the panels in good condition and helps to improve their performance. Regular servicing also allows you to check the performance of the solar panels and identify any potential problems before they become more serious and require costly repairs.