5 Solar Maintenance Tips for Washington Homeowners
Why Solar Maintenance Matters More Than Ever in Washington
Washington is one of the most solar-curious states in the country, but our unique climate presents real challenges: heavy rain, moss growth, dense tree coverage, and long winters can silently reduce your system’s performance.
And with the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit ending in 2025, homeowners are racing to install systems before the deadline—many without a long-term plan for upkeep.
At Rainier Roof & Solar Solutions, we’ve seen what happens when systems go untouched for years. That’s why we created this guide to help you protect your investment, maximize efficiency, and avoid costly repairs with proactive maintenance.
🌤️ Tip #1: Yes, You Still Need to Clean Your Solar Panels (Even in Rainy WA)
A common myth in King, Pierce, and Kitsap counties is that our rainfall keeps panels clean. The truth? Rain just spreads dirt, pollen, moss spores, and roof grime around—it doesn’t remove buildup.
We’ve cleaned panels that lost up to 30% of their energy production due to grime, especially in shaded or wooded neighborhoods like Port Orchard, Bonney Lake, and Olympia.
Best Practice: Clean your panels at least once every 6–12 months, depending on location. Avoid pressure washing—use soft brushes, filtered water, or hire a professional (like us) who knows how to clean without voiding your warranty.
📍 Serving solar panel cleaning in: King, Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap, Mason & Snohomish counties.
⚠️ Tip #2: Get an Annual Inspection to Catch Issues Early
Many solar issues go unnoticed until it’s too late:
Broken or failed inverters
Cracked panels from tree debris
Loose wiring or water intrusion
Failed microinverters or string mismatches
Damage from Squirrels or nesting birds (yes, really)
At Rainier Roof & Solar Solutions, we include a 21-point inspection with our maintenance plans. We check performance, wiring, panel condition, conduit seals, inverter functionality, and more.
Annual inspections = peace of mind.
🧠 Tip #3: Monitor Your System (So You Know When Something’s Off)
Don’t wait until your power bill spikes to realize your solar isn’t producing.
We offer free monitoring for all Washington homeowners—no transfer fees, no hidden charges. If you want 24/7 proactive support, our Power Protect Plan includes:
Real-time monitoring
Instant alerts if your system drops
Troubleshooting + 100% labor coverage for repairs
$150 credit per repair event for parts not covered by manufacturer warranty
🛑 Stop playing solar technician. Let us catch problems before they cost you hundreds.
🌱 Tip #4: Control Moss, Shade & Debris Around Your Array
Here in the Pacific Northwest, moss and overgrown trees are your panels’ worst enemies.
We see it all the time in Snohomish, Mason, and Thurston counties—moss creeps onto panel edges, traps moisture, and leads to microcracks and corrosion. Leaves and needles pile up from evergreens. Shadows from fast-growing maples tank production.
What You Can Do:
Trim back overhanging branches every spring
Use a moss inhibitor (zinc powder or strips)
Schedule a panel cleaning before peak production seasons
Bonus: We can clean your roof and gutters too during the same visit. One trip, full protection.
🔌 Tip #5: Plan Ahead for Roof Replacements or Repairs
If your roof is older than your solar system, you’ll likely need a removal and reinstall (R&R) at some point. This is especially common in Tacoma, Everett, and older homes in the Seattle suburbs.
The mistake? Waiting until the roofing company shows up before calling a solar pro. Calling a Solar Expert is a MUST when getting a Removal & Reinstall roofing companies often tell customers they can remove it for a low price which sounds intriguing but a majority of roofers are not licensed to do the work and they can make curital errors in the process check out our blog about R&Rs to learn more
⚠️ Pro Tip: Most roofers don’t want to deal with solar. We coordinate everything for you.
🎯 The Bottom Line: Take Care of Your Solar, and It Will Take Care of You
Your solar panels are a long-term investment—but like any system, they need regular care to perform at their best.
Whether your installer ghosted you, your warranty is confusing, or you just want real help from a local company who answers the phone, Rainier Roof & Solar Solutions is here to support you.
💬 Ready for a Cleaning, Inspection, or Repair?
👇 Click below to schedule your free consultation
📍 Serving homeowners in King, Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap, Mason & Snohomish Counties
