Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my solar panels?

In the UK climate, solar panels typically need cleaning 2-4 times per year. However, this can vary based on:

• Your local environment (urban areas with more pollution may require more frequent cleaning)

• Proximity to trees (pollen, leaves, and bird droppings)

• The angle of your installation (flatter panels collect more debris)

For optimal performance, I recommend scheduling cleaning sessions in early spring (after winter grime), early summer (after spring pollen), and autumn (before leaf fall season). If you notice significant power output reduction, additional cleaning may be necessary.

What's the best way to clean solar panels?

For safe and effective cleaning:

1. Clean during early morning or evening when panels are cool

2. Use soft water (rainwater is ideal) and a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush with an extension pole

3. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or pressure washers that could damage the panels

4. For stubborn dirt, use a mild, eco-friendly soap solution specifically designed for solar panels

Safety reminder: If your panels are roof-mounted, consider hiring a professional cleaner rather than risking personal injury.

Do solar panels require professional maintenance?

While solar PV systems are generally low-maintenance, we recommend:

• Annual professional inspection to check electrical connections, mounting hardware, and overall system performance

• Professional cleaning if panels are difficult to access safely

• System check after extreme weather events (severe storms, heavy snowfall)

EcoStar Renewables offers maintenance packages that include these services to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency throughout its lifespan.

Winter Maintenance: How do I deal with snow on solar panels?

Snow typically melts quickly from the smooth, tilted surface of solar panels, especially once some sunlight reaches them. However:

• Never use sharp tools or abrasive materials to remove snow

• If safe to do so, a soft brush with an extension handle can gently clear excessive snow

• Remember that light snow often melts quickly and slides off panels on its own

• Most UK snowfall is light enough that waiting for natural clearing is usually the best approach

During winter months, check your system's output readings more frequently to ensure performance hasn't dropped significantly.

Autumn Maintenance: How do I prevent leaf and debris buildup?

The UK's autumn season brings unique challenges:

• Schedule a cleaning before the main leaf-fall season

• Consider installing simple leaf guards if your system is particularly affected

• Check panels more frequently during autumn months

• If your property has many trees, consider trimming branches that directly overhang panels

Spring and Summer: Dealing with pollen and bird droppings

Spring and summer bring their own maintenance considerations:

• Pollen can create a film on panels during spring, potentially reducing efficiency by 5-10%

• Bird droppings are more common in summer and can cause "hot spots" if left uncleaned

• Schedule a thorough cleaning after the main pollen season

• Consider bird deterrents if droppings are a persistent problem

My energy production seems lower than expected. What could be wrong?

Several factors can affect solar energy production:

1. Dirt and debris accumulation: Schedule a cleaning if panels appear dirty

2. Shading issues: Check if new growth from trees or new structures are casting shadows

3. Inverter problems: Check if your inverter is showing any error codes or warning lights

4. Weather patterns: Cloudy periods will naturally reduce output

5. System age: Panels typically degrade at about 0.5-1% per year

If you've ruled out dirt and temporary weather conditions, please contact EcoStar Renewables for a system check.

What do the different lights on my inverter mean?

While specific indicators vary by manufacturer, generally:

• Steady green light: System operating normally

• Flashing green light: System starting up or in standby mode

• Red light: System fault detected

• No lights: Power issue or inverter failure

Consult your specific inverter manual (which we provided during installation) for exact meanings. If you're seeing red lights or no lights, please contact our support team.

How can I tell if my system is performing efficiently?

Monitor these key indicators:

• Compare current production to similar periods in previous years

• Check if production aligns with seasonal expectations

• Review your energy bills for unexpected increases

• Use the monitoring app/portal provided with your system to track daily performance

EcoStar Renewables systems include monitoring capabilities that allow you to track performance. If you notice a significant drop (more than 15-20% from expected output), please contact us.

Battery Storage System Maintenance

How often should battery storage systems be maintained?

Modern battery storage systems like those installed by EcoStar Renewables require minimal maintenance:

• Annual professional inspection is recommended

• Software updates may be required occasionally

• Physical inspection for signs of damage or unusual operation

Unlike older battery technologies, current lithium-based systems don't require regular cycling or specific charging patterns to maintain health.

What's the expected lifespan of my battery storage system?

Battery storage systems installed by EcoStar Renewables typically:

• Have a warranty period of 10 years

• Can operate effectively for 10-15 years depending on usage patterns

• Gradually lose capacity over time (typically retaining 70-80% of original capacity after 10 years)

To maximize lifespan:

• Avoid completely depleting the battery regularly

• Ensure the installation area maintains proper ventilation and temperature control

• Follow the specific manufacturer guidelines provided during installation

How do I know if my battery system needs attention?

Watch for these warning signs:

• Significantly reduced storage capacity

• Unusual noises, odors, or heat from the battery unit

• Error messages on the control panel

• Unexpected system shutdowns

• Reduced backup power duration during outages

If you notice any of these issues, please contact EcoStar Renewables immediately for assessment.

When should I call for professional help rather than attempting maintenance myself?

Contact EcoStar Renewables when:

• You notice a significant drop in system performance (15%+ reduction)

• Your inverter displays error codes or warning lights

• After extreme weather events that may have damaged components

• You observe physical damage to panels, mounting hardware, or electrical components

• Your monitoring system shows unusual patterns or errors

• Annual inspection is due

For safety reasons, never attempt to:

• Repair electrical components

• Access roof-mounted systems without proper safety equipment

• Disassemble any part of the system

• Modify system connections

Does EcoStar Renewables offer maintenance packages?

Yes, we offer several maintenance options:

• Annual inspection and cleaning service

• Comprehensive care packages that include priority support

• Extended warranty options

• Performance monitoring services

Contact us at 0191 743 7172 or sales@ecostar-renewables.co.uk to discuss the best maintenance package for your system.