Solar Panel Maintenance and Cleaning in Zimbabwe (What to Expect!)
The Complete Owner's Guide
A solar system is a long-term investment in your energy independence and financial savings. To protect that investment and maximize performance, regular cleaning, maintenance, and professional check-ups are essential. At Sona Solar Zimbabwe, we provide comprehensive maintenance services for systems featuring top brands such as Canadian Solar, Jinko, JA, and Longi panels, Must, SVolt, and EVolt lithium-ion batteries, and Growatt and Must inverters.
A Simple Guide to Cleaning Your Solar Panels
Fortunately, solar panels require very little maintenance. How often they need cleaning depends entirely on your location. For most homes, seasonal rainfall does an excellent job of washing away dust and debris. However, manual cleaning becomes necessary if you notice a significant build-up.
We recommend a visual inspection every few months. You should plan a cleaning if you see:
- A visible layer of dust, especially during the dry season.
- An accumulation of leaves, tree sap, or bird droppings.
- A noticeable drop in your system's energy production, which you can track via your monitoring app.
If you can access your panels safely from the ground, a simple rinse with a garden hose is often sufficient. For stubborn grime:
- Use only a soft cloth or sponge with a small amount of mild dish soap in a bucket of water.
- NEVER use abrasive materials, harsh detergents, or high-pressure washers, as these can permanently damage the panel's anti-reflective coating.
- Rinse the panels thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- If you are unsure or cannot safely reach your panels, it is always best to contact a professional.
Your Annual Maintenance Checklist
Beyond cleaning, a yearly check-up is crucial for longevity and performance. While many of these are simple visual inspections, always prioritize safety.
Once a year, visually inspect all accessible wiring. Ensure cables are securely fastened and not touching the roof. Check for any signs of damage, fraying, or loose connections. Make sure the area around your inverter is clean and free from debris to allow proper ventilation.
The racking is the foundation of your array. Visually inspect it for any signs of damage or loose hardware. This is easier for ground-mounted systems, but a quick check from a safe vantage point can help ensure everything remains secure for roof-mounted systems too.
Modern lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free. However, a regular visual check-up is good practice. Ensure the battery terminals are clean, free of any corrosion, and that all connections are tight. This simple check helps ensure a long and efficient battery life.
Your Maintenance Questions, Answered
While you can perform visual checks, you should call a professional if you notice a sudden and significant drop in energy production that cleaning doesn't fix, see error codes on your inverter, or suspect any physical damage to the panels or wiring. Never attempt to fix electrical components yourself.
Yes, significantly. While a light layer of dust has a minimal effect, heavy build-ups of dirt, leaves, or bird droppings can block sunlight and reduce your system's output by anywhere from 5% to 25% in extreme cases. Regular cleaning ensures you are getting the maximum possible power from your investment.
Standard warranties cover equipment failure (e.g., a panel stops working) and sometimes workmanship (leaks from installation). However, they do not cover routine maintenance like cleaning or preventative check-ups. Regular maintenance is often a condition for keeping your warranty valid, as neglect can lead to damage that is not covered.
Protect Your Investment
While DIY checks are valuable, a professional service ensures your system's long-term safety and performance. Contact our network of vetted experts for professional cleaning, maintenance, and system check-ups.
Book a Professional ServiceWe Are a Dedicated Solar Energy Company in Zimbabwe: Pro Solar Solutions Zimbabwe is a leading solar energy provider based in Harare, supplying homes, offices, and industries across Zimbabwe and Africa with reliable, 24-hour uninterrupted power. We specialize in premium solar systems using trusted brands such as Canadian Solar, Jinko, JA, and Longi solar panels, Must, SVolt, and EVolt lithium-ion batteries, and Growatt and Must inverters.
Pro Solar Solutions Zimbabwe is committed to delivering affordable, sustainable, and reliable solar energy installations. Our goal is to ensure every Zimbabwean has access to clean, cost-effective, and efficient energy solutions, tailored for homes, offices, and businesses. Our product range includes home and industrial solar systems, inverter backup solutions, off-grid systems, mini-grid solutions, and solar water pumping systems — all designed to perform optimally in Zimbabwe’s climate while reducing electricity costs and ensuring energy independence.
Cathrine (Sales)