Solar PV maintenance: why it matters and what to do
Solar PV is dependable, but it isn’t “fit-and-forget.” A light, regular maintenance plan protects two things that matter to homeowners and insurers alike: steady energy yield and electrical safety.
Why maintenance is critical
After sunlight itself, soiling (dust, pollen, salt spray, bird mess) is the next biggest factor that drags PV performance. The IEA PVPS notes that soiling is the single most influential factor after irradiance, which is why periodic cleaning and checks are part of good operation. IEA-PVPS
Beyond output, small electrical issues—loose DC connectors, water in isolators, deteriorated cable glands—can escalate if unnoticed. UK risk guidance (FPA RC62) emphasises that the best way to control PV fire risk—already low in absolute terms—is quality design, installation, operation and maintenance backed by clear labelling and isolation. The FPA
What UK frameworks expect
IET Code of Practice (2nd ed.) defines good practice across design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of grid-connected PV—useful for scoping what gets checked and how it’s documented. IET Shop
MCS MIS 3002 (Issue 5)—the UK installer standard—requires an O&M/handover pack that includes maintenance requirements and a recommended interval for the first periodic inspection. (Appendix F gives an example maintenance schedule with advisory frequencies.) MCS CertifiedC Gascoigne Ltd
IEC/BS EN 62446-1 sets the verification tests and documentation used at commissioning and for periodic re-inspection (e.g., polarity, insulation resistance, and records). IEC Webstore
A simple, standards-aligned plan for homeowners
Monthly quick look (from ground level):
Check for obvious shading/debris, bird nesting, or visible damage to frames or glass.
Glance at your monitoring app for unexpected drops vs. the same period last year (weather-adjusted).
If you see issues, don’t access the roof—book an inspection.
Annual service (by a competent technician):
Visual inspection of modules, frames, roof fixings, DC/AC isolators, conduit/cable routes, penetrations and labels; photos recorded. IET Shop
Electrical verification to IEC 62446-1 scope (e.g., polarity, insulation resistance; IV/thermal sampling where appropriate) and a sanity check of inverter settings/firmware. IEC Webstore
Cleaning with pure/DI water and a soft water-fed brush (no pressure washing) to control soiling. IEA-PVPS
Short report with any remedials and the next inspection interval noted (as per MIS 3002 handover expectations). MCS Certified
When to step up frequency:
Coastal, agricultural, heavy-traffic or tree-covered locations (more soiling).
If monitoring shows gradual under-performance.
After storms, nearby construction, or roof work. (Use the Appendix F schedule as a guide and tailor to your property.) C Gascoigne Ltd
Ready for a standards-based check?Book a Full System Inspection or Get a fast quote. We’ll keep your PV safe, efficient and well-documented—so it keeps paying you back for years.