Spring Checklist: 8 Items

What spring maintenance do solar panels need?

Solar panel spring checklist (March-April): (1) CLEAN PANELS: Winter dirt, bird mess, pollen reduces output 3-8%. Professional clean: £40-£100. Recovery: 3-8% more output through summer. (2) CHECK MONITORING: Compare this spring's output to last spring. If 10%+ lower: investigate (fault, new shading, dirty panels). (3) TRIM BRANCHES: Spring growth can create new shading. Trim overhanging branches before leaves fill out. (4) CHECK INVERTER: Any error codes? Unusual noise? Dashboard showing normal operation? (5) REVIEW SEG RATE: Tariff rates change — check you're on the best available. Switch if better option exists. (6) SHIFT APPLIANCES: Start running dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer during midday. Self-consumption = more savings. (7) CHECK BIRD PROOFING: Pigeons nest in spring. If you hear cooing or see nesting material: install mesh (£300-£500). (8) UPDATE TIMER SETTINGS: Immersion heater timer, EV charging schedule — align with longer spring solar hours. Sources: BRE maintenance guidelines, manufacturer recommendations.