Solar panel installation by experts in Reading, Berkshire

Solar PV panels do not require any regular servicing other than to keep the panels clean. Panels are largely self-cleaning with rain, but some installations may be prone to gathering leaves, mud, or dust. It is a good idea if accessible, to clean as necessary using a mild soap solution as you would windows.  If access is a problem and there is a build-up of grime, then specialist companies exist who will clean the panels. Other than that, just keep an eye on the performance of your system, either using the app that comes with some systems, or simply reading the generation meter. If there is a sudden change than this could indicate a problem. Contact us and we can assess what the problem is and fix it. 

Solar Thermal (hot-water) systems do require maintenance one every two or three years. If your system has not been serviced for more than that then we recommend that you get us in to check it over for safety and operation. It is common for these systems to cease working and for the owner not to notice. Getting these systems up and working efficiently is a simple process, and for not much cost you can resume benefiting from lashings of free hot-water. Have a look at the solar thermal page for more details. 

Solar PV – cleaned 2/3 times a year – serviced when something goes wrong, or performance degrades significantly.

Solar Thermal – every two or three years.

It depends on the number of panels you have how access to them is achieved. If they are readily accessed, you should expect to pay about the same as your window cleaner.

Not usually.

Solar PV and flat plate solar thermal – a mild solution of soap and water.

Solar thermal vacuum tubes – not usually required, however if there is a significant build-up of dirt, then leave this to the professionals contact us for a quote.

Solar PV - Monitor your system regularly, either using the app that comes with some systems, or simply reading the generation meter. If there is a sudden change than this could indicate a problem. Contact us and we can assess what the problem is and fix it. 

Solar Thermal – You should be able to switch of the boiler during the summer and get almost all your hot-water from the sun, if this is not happening then contact us to have a chat how you can further investigate whether there’s a problem.

Most solar panels are designed to last 20years plus. There is a slight annual degradation in the panel each year, but most panels provide a multi-year warranty on the amount of degradation that is normal. You should consult your system documentation. 

Solar Thermal panels equally are designed to work efficiently for many tens of years.

Short answer – No. 

Having said that contact us if you want to talk about thermodynamic panels, or solar PVT panels. We can clear up the confusion often sewn by some manufacturers.

Facetious answer - we do not recommend ingesting solar panels. They do have a layer of glass which could create sharp shards if smashed. If your solar panel is not working or smashed, then it needs to be disposed of at an accredited solar recycling centre. Ask at your local council amenity or contact us for a quote to take it away and put it in for recycling.