SMSSolar Maintenance Solutions

Loading

Energy Saving Tips

5 Signs Your Solar Panels Need Professional Maintenance

Jaimie Collins
18 March 2026
5 min read
5 Signs Your Solar Panels Need Professional Maintenance

Solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance, but they are not maintenance-free. After 11,000+ installations, we have seen the same warning signs appear time and again. Here is what to watch for.

1. Your Generation Has Dropped Noticeably

If your system is producing 20-30% less than it did in the same month last year, something is wrong. Common causes include accumulated dirt, bird droppings, leaf coverage, or inverter issues. A professional clean and inspection typically restores full output.

2. Your Inverter Shows Error Codes

Modern inverters display error codes when they detect issues. If you see a red or amber warning light, do not ignore it. Inverter failures account for the majority of solar system downtime, and early intervention prevents small issues from becoming expensive replacements.

3. Birds Have Nested Under Your Panels

The warm, sheltered gap between panels and roof tiles is irresistible to pigeons and other birds. Nesting debris blocks airflow, reduces panel efficiency, and can cause wiring damage. Our bird-proofing mesh, secured with specialist clips, prevents this permanently.

4. Your Roof Has Developed Issues

Cracked tiles, slipped slates, or deteriorating flashing around panel mounts can lead to leaks. We inspect the roof condition as part of every maintenance visit and can carry out repairs in-house without needing to remove panels.

5. It Has Been More Than 2 Years Since Your Last Service

Even if everything seems fine, biannual professional inspections catch problems before they cost you money. Our maintenance packages from £29.99/month include all inspections, cleaning, monitoring, and repairs.

maintenancesolar panelsperformancetips

Ready to Go Solar?

Get a free, no-obligation survey and see how much you could save with solar panels.