As summer fades and fall rolls in, your solar energy system continues working hard to power your home. While solar panels are low-maintenance by design, fall is an ideal time to ensure they’re performing at their best before shorter winter days and harsher weather arrive.
At MB HAYNES, we know how valuable your solar investment is—and how important it is to keep it running efficiently year-round. With over 100 years of service to Western North Carolina and the Upstate, our employee-owned company is proud to help homeowners maximize the benefits of renewable energy.
Here’s your all-in-one fall solar maintenance checklist to keep your system safe, reliable, and efficient through the colder months.
Why Fall Solar Maintenance Matters
Solar systems require less upkeep than many home systems, but a little attention in the fall goes a long way. Seasonal maintenance can:
- Maximize energy production during shorter winter days
- Prevent damage from falling leaves, debris, and ice
- Extend the life of your solar panels and equipment
- Protect wiring and connections from seasonal weather changes
- Give you peace of mind heading into colder months
- Inspect and Clean Solar Panels
Falling leaves, pollen, and summer dust can reduce panel efficiency.
- Gently rinse panels with a garden hose if they look dirty
- Use a soft brush or squeegee for stubborn spots
- Avoid harsh cleaning agents or abrasive materials
If your panels are difficult to reach, consider seeking out a professional cleaning service to avoid safety risks.
- Check for Shade from Trees
As the angle of the sun shifts in fall, new shadows can reduce solar production.
- Look for overhanging branches or nearby trees casting shade
- Trim back vegetation that may block sunlight
- Remove leaves or debris that collect on or near panels
Maintaining clear sunlight paths helps your panels perform at their best.
- Inspect Wiring and Connections
Seasonal weather changes—temperature swings, rain, and wind—can put stress on electrical components.
- Look for exposed or damaged wiring
- Check junction boxes for loose connections
- Make sure conduit and mounting hardware are secure
If you notice anything unusual, schedule a professional inspection.
- Review Your Inverter Display or Monitoring App
Your inverter or monitoring system provides real-time data on your system’s performance. Fall is a good time to:
- Confirm your system is producing energy as expected
- Check for error messages or warning lights
- Compare seasonal production to last year’s output
Monitoring your system helps you catch small issues before they become big problems.
- Prepare for Storms and Winter Weather
Fall storms and colder months can bring heavy winds, snow, and ice. Take steps now to protect your solar system:
- Ensure panels and racking are firmly secured
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear to prevent overflow near equipment
- Have a plan for safe snow removal if panels are heavily covered
Solar systems are built to withstand the elements, but proactive care provides added protection.
- Inspect Battery Storage (If Applicable)
If your solar system includes a battery backup, fall is the perfect time to:
- Check the battery enclosure for debris, pests, or water damage
- Review system charge and discharge performance
- Schedule maintenance to ensure readiness for winter outages
A healthy battery system provides peace of mind when storms cause power interruptions.
- Schedule a Professional Solar Inspection
While DIY checks are helpful, a professional inspection offers the most thorough evaluation. At MB HAYNES, our certified solar technicians can:
- Inspect panels, inverters, and mounting systems
- Test wiring, grounding, and electrical safety
- Check system output against expected performance
- Provide recommendations for efficiency improvements
Annual inspections help keep your solar investment protected and productive.
Partner with MB HAYNES for Solar Confidence
For over a century, MB HAYNES has been a trusted name in home services—and today, we’re proud to lead the way in renewable energy solutions. As a 100% employee-owned company, we are committed to delivering high-quality solar installations, maintenance, and repairs that keep your home running on clean energy.
Whether you need a routine inspection or a system upgrade, our solar experts are here to help.
Ready to Get Your Solar System Fall-Ready?
Don’t let shorter days and colder weather catch your solar system off guard. Schedule your fall solar maintenance with MB HAYNES today and ensure your home continues to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy all year long.
Call us now or schedule your appointment online to get started. 828-254-6141