Most rooftop solar panels will benefit from a clean once every year or two. Here's how to best clean solar panels for maximum energy efficiency.
Solar Power
Solar panel maintenance and system troubleshooting
Interested in solar energy but worried about the upkeep? Check out our handy FAQ guide on how to maintain your solar system.
If you've recently upgraded to solar at home - or are thinking of doing so - and have some questions, here are all your solar maintenance and troubleshooting queries answered.
Always use a reputable solar provider for peace of mind with your home solar investment.
What is the warranty period on my solar system?
Solar panels and battery installation from RACV has a 10-year warranty. Each of our partner brands also offer industry-leading warranties on their hardware that makes up part of your solar system.
Do solar systems need much maintenance?
Solar systems require very little maintenance. Pruning nearby trees so they don't shade your solar panels is the most common maintenance task you'll need to do.
How do I clean solar panels?
Rainwater will clean panels adequately in most cases, and good-quality hardware installed correctly will last in the elements.
That said, it's a good idea to have your solar panels regularly checked during drier months. Over time they may collect dust, debris or bird droppings. Built-up dirt can reduce electricity production.
How do I check my solar system is working?
The easiest way to check if your solar system is working is to look at the solar inverter (the box on your wall). Green lights or a screen showing power output are good indicators that the system is working. However, this is only confirmation the system has no major fault, not that it is performing well.
On the other hand, red lights or an error on the screen can be signs of a problem. Another way to check is to look at your power bill to see if you are feeding in power.
What happens to my solar system if there's a blackout?
Australian standards require that grid-connected solar systems shut down in the case of a blackout. This is to prevent power from flowing back into the grid and posing a risk to electrical workers who may be fixing the problem.
Many newer solar battery systems can operate in a blackout by first 'islanding' the whole system and the house from the grid.
Once grid power is restored your solar power system will automatically reconnect and resume normal operation.
Solar systems require little maintenance. Image: Matt Harvey
What are solar monitoring apps?
Solar monitoring apps – developed by inverter, battery or other hardware manufacturers – allow you to view solar energy produced on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.
With additional hardware, they can also show home energy consumed, excess energy exported, and energy stored in your battery (if installed). They are generally available on iOS, Android and the web. They help you track your energy usage and show you how you are benefiting from solar and battery storage (if installed).
What if I have an issue with my solar system that's not listed here?
Have a check through RACV Solar's FAQs if you are having an issue with your solar system.
If your matter is still not resolved, give RACV Solar a call on 1300 447 765 so they can help diagnose and resolve the issue.
What do I do if I have an emergency with my solar system?
RACV Solar customers 24/7 service to provide support in emergency situations. During business hours, call 1300 447 765 and select option 3. After hours, call 1300 187 605.
