Why Solar Panel Cleaning Matters in the Fall
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop in Colorado Springs, your solar system faces a seasonal shift. Summer monsoons, windstorms, and falling leaves can leave dust, dirt, and debris on your panels—right when you need them operating efficiently through winter’s lower sunlight hours.
That’s why solar panel cleaning and inspection before the first freeze is one of the smartest maintenance steps you can take. At JP Electric & Solar, we help homeowners in neighborhoods like Briargate, Manitou Springs, and the Broadmoor area prep their systems for the colder months ahead.
What Debris Does to Solar Efficiency
A thin layer of dust or bird droppings might not look like much, but it can lower your energy production by 10–20% depending on the season and the angle of your panels. Add in leaf cover or sticky summer dust storms, and you’re looking at even bigger drops.
In Colorado Springs, we often see:
- Dust from high winds along the Front Range
- Sap and pollen from nearby pine trees
- Monsoon mud splatter on panels near patios or roofs
- Ash or soot in areas near burn scars or high fire risk
If your Enphase monitoring system shows a gradual decline in production—without any major weather events—dirty panels might be the reason.
What to Check During a Fall Solar Panel Inspection
Cleaning your panels is a good start, but a visual inspection adds real value, especially after a long summer. Before snow or freezing rain arrives, check for signs of wear and tear that could become bigger issues in winter.
Here’s what to look for:
- Hairline cracks or chips from hail or falling branches
- Loose or damaged mounting brackets (especially in high-wind areas)
- Wiring that’s exposed or chewed by rodents
- Water spots or condensation under the panel glass
- Sagging sealant near edges
For homes in higher elevation areas like Monument or the west side of Cheyenne Mountain, winter hits harder—meaning even minor issues now can turn into energy loss or structural damage once snow loads set in.
Tips for Cleaning Solar Panels Before Winter
Most rooftop solar panels in Colorado Springs can be cleaned with a light rinse and soft brush. If you’re unsure about access or safety, don’t risk climbing—especially as frost begins to form.
Basic cleaning steps:
- Use a garden hose with a gentle spray in the early morning
- Avoid using cold water on hot panels—this can crack the glass
- Gently wipe with a soft sponge or squeegee if safe to do so
- Don’t use soap or high-pressure nozzles
- Avoid any contact with wiring or hardware
If you notice unusual debris (like sap, animal waste, or rust stains), give our team a call. You can learn more about solar system maintenance options on the JP Electric & Solar website.
Why Fall Maintenance Makes a Difference in Colorado Springs
Our climate is unique. Solar systems in areas like Black Forest, Rockrimmon, and Palmer Lake often face:
- Earlier frost and snowfall than lower elevation neighborhoods
- Dense pine or oak coverage, which means more fall debris
- Wider temperature swings that stress older components
By taking action now, you:
- Maximize solar production through lower-sunlight months
- Prevent storm-related wear or degradation
- Extend the lifespan of your solar investment
- Protect your Enphase battery backup from underperformance due to panel inefficiency
Keep Your Solar Panels Clean, Inspected, and Winter-Ready
Solar works year-round—but only if your system is ready for it. A little fall maintenance now ensures you’re not losing energy (or money) when it matters most. At JP Electric & Solar, we’ve helped homeowners across El Paso County prep their solar systems for Colorado’s unpredictable winter conditions.
Need help inspecting your panels or not sure if your system is operating at peak performance? JP Electric & Solar—we’ll help keep your system clean, efficient, and reliable all season long.
