Solar panels are built to last 25 to 30 years or more. But they are not a hands-off system. Routine maintenance protects your production, your savings, and your warranty. The most important thing to understand is this: solar maintenance should be handled by trained professionals, not homeowners. Roof work, electrical components, and inverter systems all carry real safety and warranty risks if handled improperly.
If your system needs attention at any point, the correct step is simple. Contact the EDGE Energy Support team.
Why You Should Not Perform Solar Maintenance Yourself
Solar systems operate at high voltages and are installed in elevated, weather-exposed environments. DIY cleaning or troubleshooting creates three major risks:
- Personal injury from roof falls or electrical shock
- Permanent system damage
- Voided equipment warranties
Even something that seems simple, like washing panels or checking wiring, can cause damage or insurance issues if performed incorrectly. Manufacturer warranties typically require professional service for any system work.
If it touches your panels, wiring, inverter, or mounts, it should be handled by a certified technician.
Panel Cleaning Should Be Scheduled, Not DIY
Dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and air pollution can reduce solar output over time. While cleaning is important, it must be done correctly using approved tools, pressure levels, and methods.
Improper cleaning can:
- Scratch anti-reflective coatings
- Compromise seals
- Create micro-cracks in the glass
- Cause roof leaks
If you believe your panels need cleaning, contact our Support team to schedule professional service.
System Monitoring and Performance Issues
Every solar system includes monitoring software that may send alerts or show production drops. If you notice:
- Sudden output declines
- Flat production on sunny days
- Inverter warnings or alerts
Do not attempt to reset or repair equipment yourself. These systems are tied directly into your home’s electrical infrastructure. Our Support team can diagnose the issue remotely or dispatch a technician if needed.
Visual Concerns After Storms or High Winds
After major weather events, homeowners often notice:
- Loose conduit
- Shifted panels
- Exposed wiring
- Debris against the array
These should never be handled by homeowners. Even touching a damaged system can be dangerous. Report any post-storm concerns directly to Support immediately.
Inverter Issues Must Always Be Handled by Professionals
Inverters convert solar energy into usable power for your home. They are highly sensitive electrical components and the most common service item over the life of a solar system.
Never attempt to:
- Open the inverter
- Reset breakers repeatedly
- Disconnect wiring
- Troubleshoot faults manually
All inverter diagnostics and warranty work must go through certified technicians to maintain coverage.
Tree Trimming, Shade, and System Obstructions
If tree growth begins to affect your system’s performance, do not trim near panels yourself. Falling branches and contact with live wiring can cause critical damage.
Notify Support so we can:
- Assess shading impact
- Coordinate proper trimming
- Verify production recovery afterward
Snow and Ice on Solar Panels
Solar panels are designed to shed snow naturally. Do not attempt to scrape, rake, or chip ice or snow from your panels. This can permanently damage panel glass and mounting hardware and create serious fall hazards.
If heavy snow lingers and you believe it is affecting performance, contact Support for guidance or service.
Professional Maintenance Protects Your Investment
While solar is a low-maintenance technology, all inspections, cleanings, and repairs should be performed by trained professionals. This ensures:
- Safety for your household
- Compliance with manufacturer warranties
- Continued system performance
- Long-term return on your investment
Need Service or Have a Concern?
At EDGE Energy, your system does not stop being our responsibility after installation. Our Support team is here to help with monitoring questions, inspections, cleaning referrals, and service needs for solar customers across Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
If something looks off, sounds wrong, or stops producing the way it should, do not troubleshoot it yourself. Contact our Support team directly.
