As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, autumn brings unique maintenance needs for your solar panels.
Fall’s cooler temperatures and varying weather can be advantageous for energy production, but keeping your system well-maintained is key to maximizing its output.
That is why we’ve put together some simple tips and recommended solar panel maintenance services to help you get the most out of your panels this season.
1. Clear Leaves and Debris from Panels
Falling leaves can easily accumulate on solar panels, especially after a windy day. This debris can block sunlight and reduce energy production.
Use a soft brush or leaf blower to gently remove leaves and debris from the panel surface, avoiding abrasive tools or excessive force. Regularly clearing your panels ensures that they remain exposed to sunlight as much as possible.
2. Adjust Panel Tilt for Autumn Sunlight
As the sun sits lower in the sky during fall, adjusting the tilt of your panels can help capture more direct sunlight.
If your solar system has adjustable mounting, consider changing the angle to better align with the sun’s autumn trajectory. However, if your panels are fixed, this is a good time to ask your installer about the optimal year-round tilt, especially in areas with seasonal shifts in sunlight.
3. Clean Off Dirt and Pollen Residue
If you are wondering do solar panels need to be cleaned in the fall. Your answer is yes, because the summer months can leave a buildup of dirt, pollen, and other residues on your panels, which may block sunlight and reduce efficiency. Fall is an ideal time for a good cleaning to restore their effectiveness before it get too cold outside and snow or ice begin.
Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean the panels, then rinse with a low-pressure hose. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
4. Inspect Your System’s Energy Output
With the fluctuating weather in autumn, it’s helpful to monitor your solar system’s energy production to understand its fall performance baseline.
By using your solar monitoring app or system, you can track any unexpected drops in production that might indicate maintenance is needed. If you notice sudden changes, it may be worth scheduling a professional inspection to ensure everything is in good condition.
5. Schedule a Fall Maintenance Check
Seasonal maintenance is essential to ensure your system’s optimal performance and longevity. During a fall check-up, a technician can inspect for any issues that could affect performance, such as loose connections or mounting problems. At Rising Sun Solar Solutions, we offer seasonal inspections to help you prepare your system for cooler weather while addressing any wear-and-tear that may have occurred over the summer.
6. Maximize Battery Storage for Shorter Days
If you have solar battery storage, fall is a great time to start maximizing storage for overcast days and the longer nights ahead. Make sure your battery is fully charged on sunny fall days to support your energy needs when the sun isn’t shining. By managing your battery’s charge levels, you can reduce reliance on grid power as daylight hours decrease.
Now is also a perfect time to add your first or additional batteries to your solar unit. Maryland and Pennsylvania can have prolonged cloudy days in the winter, so having extra battery storage will keep your lights powered by the sun even when it isn’t shining.
Prepare for the Fall With Solar Panel Maintenance Services
Fall can be a high-performing season for solar energy with its cooler temperatures and sunny days, provided your panels are maintained well. By following these tips, you’ll keep your solar system in peak condition and maximize efficiency through the season.
Ready to prepare your panels for fall? Contact Rising Sun Solar Solutions today to schedule a seasonal maintenance check and keep your energy production strong all autumn long.
