Solar Panel Maintenance in Calgary: What Homeowners Need to Know

Investing in solar panels is a great way to reduce your electricity bills, increase your home’s value, and reduce your carbon footprint. But like any other part of your home, solar panels require some basic maintenance to keep them running at peak performance.

Fortunately, solar panels are designed to be low-maintenance, but a little care goes a long way. In this guide, we’ll cover everything Calgary homeowners need to know about solar panel maintenance, including cleaning, inspections, and how to protect your investment from potential damage.

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Do Solar Panels Require Maintenance?

The good news is that solar panels require very little maintenance. Most of the time, they simply sit on your roof, soaking up the sun and converting it into clean electricity. However, to ensure they continue performing at their best, there are a few simple tasks you should keep in mind.

Here’s what solar panel maintenance generally involves:

• Cleaning: Removing dirt, dust, bird droppings, and debris that can reduce efficiency.
  
  
• Regular Inspections: Checking for any signs of damage or wear.
  
  
• Monitoring Performance: Keeping an eye on energy production to ensure your system is working properly.
  
  
• Protecting Panels: Preventing damage from wildlife or severe weather.
  
  

Let’s dive into these steps in more detail.

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Cleaning Your Solar Panels: How and When

One of the most important aspects of solar panel maintenance is keeping them clean. In Calgary, you may experience occasional dust buildup, pollen, or even snow that can temporarily reduce panel efficiency.

How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?

In most cases, natural rainfall is enough to keep your panels clean. However, in dry periods or if your panels are installed in an area prone to dust or bird droppings, you may want to clean them manually once or twice a year.

How to Clean Solar Panels Safely

• Use Soft, Non-Abrasive Tools: A soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth works best.
  
  
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Water is usually enough—mixing a mild soap solution can help with stubborn dirt.
  
  
• Clean During Cool Hours: Early morning or late evening is ideal, as panels can become very hot during the day.
  
  
• Stay Safe: If your panels are installed on a high or steep roof, consider hiring a professional for cleaning.
  
  

Should You Hire a Professional?

For many homeowners, hiring a professional solar panel cleaning service is the safest and most effective option. Professionals have the right equipment and experience to clean panels without causing damage.

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Monitoring Solar Panel Performance

One of the best things about solar power is that you can easily monitor its performance. Most solar systems come with a monitoring app or portal that lets you track your energy production in real-time.

What to Watch For:

• Sudden Drops in Production: This could indicate a problem with your system, such as a dirty panel, a faulty connection, or an issue with the inverter.
  
  
• Seasonal Changes: Production will naturally be lower in the winter due to shorter days and snow coverage, but summer should see a strong increase.
  
  
• Comparing to Estimates: Make sure your system is producing energy in line with the estimates provided during installation.
  
  

If you notice any unusual drops in performance, it may be time to schedule an inspection.

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Regular Inspections: Preventing Problems Before They Start

While solar panels are highly durable, it’s a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure everything is in good working order. During an inspection, a professional will check:

• Panel Condition: Looking for any cracks, discoloration, or other damage.
  
  
• Wiring and Connections: Ensuring that all electrical connections are secure.
  
  
• Inverter Performance: Verifying that the inverter is functioning properly.
  
  
• Mounting Hardware: Making sure the panels are securely attached to the roof.
  
  

These inspections can help identify potential issues early, saving you money and ensuring your system continues to operate efficiently.

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Protecting Your Solar Panels from Wildlife

In Calgary, one often overlooked aspect of solar maintenance is protecting your system from wildlife. Birds, squirrels, and other critters can sometimes nest under panels or chew on wiring, causing damage.

Orizon Energy’s Critter Guards

At Orizon Energy, we go the extra mile to protect your investment. Our installations include critter guards, protective barriers that keep animals from nesting under your panels or damaging cables.

Critter guards are an easy and effective way to prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your system.

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Are Solar Panels Durable Enough for Calgary’s Climate?

Yes! Modern solar panels are built to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including Calgary’s cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers.

Here’s what makes them so durable:

• Tempered Glass: Panels are made with strong, tempered glass that is impact-resistant.
  
  
• Aluminum Frames: Rust-proof and corrosion-resistant, perfect for all weather.
  
  
• Tested for Snow Load: Panels installed in Calgary are rated to handle heavy snow.
  
  

And because solar panels don’t have moving parts, there is very little that can actually go wrong with them.

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Why Choose Orizon Energy for Solar Installation and Maintenance

At Orizon Energy, we don’t just install solar systems, we help you protect and maintain your investment for years to come. Here’s how we ensure your system stays in great shape:

 Quality Installation: Our experienced team ensures your panels are securely mounted and properly connected.
Critter Guards Included: We add critter guards to protect your system from animal damage.
Performance Monitoring: Our systems include monitoring tools so you can track your energy production.
Expert Support: Have a question or need help? Our team is always available to assist.

Whether you’re exploring solar for the first time or already have a system installed, Orizon Energy is here to support you.

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Final Summary: Keep Your Solar Panels Working at Their Best

Solar panels are a fantastic investment, but like any home improvement, they perform best when properly maintained. The good news is that solar maintenance in Calgary is simple and straightforward, mostly a matter of occasional cleaning and routine inspections.

With a reliable provider like Orizon Energy, you can enjoy clean, renewable energy with minimal hassle. Ready to learn more about solar or schedule a free consultation? Contact Orizon Energy today.