Troubleshooting Low Solar Performance in Fall Months

 

When fall sets in, many homeowners notice their solar panels producing less power compared to the long, sunny days of summer. This seasonal dip can feel frustrating, especially when energy bills start creeping up. While cooler temperatures may improve panel efficiency per watt, shorter days, shading from trees, and falling debris create new challenges. If not addressed properly, these issues can worsen and cause long-term efficiency losses.

This blog explores the most common reasons for reduced output in the fall, troubleshooting strategies you can try, and professional services that ensure your system stays reliable year-round.

Why Solar Panels Produce Less Energy in Fall

Several seasonal changes impact your solar panels in autumn. Understanding them helps you separate unavoidable dips from preventable ones.

1. Shorter Days – With the sun setting earlier, panels simply don’t have as many hours to generate electricity.
   
2. Lower Sun Angle – As the sun moves lower in the sky, shadows lengthen and hit panels sooner.
   
3. Seasonal Debris – Leaves, pine needles, and dust accumulate quickly on panel surfaces, blocking sunlight.
   
4. Increased Shade from Trees – Overhanging branches that weren’t a problem in summer can suddenly shade large portions of your system.
   

While these changes are natural, they don’t mean you have to accept drastically lower output.

Signs of Poor Solar Performance

Performance drops can sneak up on homeowners, but a few telltale signs reveal when it’s more than just seasonal variation:

• Output falls significantly compared to the same month last year.
  
• Certain panels or strings produce far less than others.
  
• Shading patterns seem longer or more severe than before.
  
• Utility bills rise unexpectedly despite mild weather.

When these symptoms appear, it’s time to troubleshoot.

Troubleshooting Steps for Homeowners

Before calling in a professional, there are several steps you can take to identify and potentially resolve low solar performance in the fall. Many of these checks are simple yet highly effective at spotting issues early.

1. Inspect for Visible Debris

Falling leaves, pine needles, dust, and bird droppings are common in autumn and can easily block sunlight from reaching your panels. Even a thin layer of debris can cut energy output by 10–20%. From a safe vantage point, or using binoculars, check your solar array for any buildup. If debris is present, don’t attempt to climb onto the roof yourself. Instead, arrange for a solar panel cleaning service to restore maximum efficiency without risking damage or personal injury.

2. Observe Shading Patterns

During fall, the sun sits lower in the sky, which changes the way shadows fall on your roof. What was once full sun in the summer may now be partially shaded for several hours a day. Take time to watch how sunlight hits your panels in the morning, midday, and afternoon. If trees or branches are casting long shadows, trimming them back will improve performance. In some cases, shading might highlight the need for additional system upgrades, such as microinverters or optimizers, which help minimize losses when only part of the system is shaded.

3. Use Monitoring Tools

Most modern systems include an online monitoring platform or mobile app. This tool allows you to compare daily and monthly energy production, helping you spot unusual drops. Review your system’s data from the same period last year – if production is significantly lower, something beyond shorter days may be at play. Monitoring can also identify whether a specific panel or string is underperforming, which may indicate electrical or wiring issues that require professional attention.

4. Verify Inverter Operation

The inverter is the “brain” of your solar system, converting DC electricity into usable AC power. If it malfunctions, your entire array could appear inactive. Check the inverter display or app for error codes, warning lights, or signs of system shutdown. Sometimes a simple reset can fix the issue, but if the problem persists, you’ll likely need inverter repair/replacement to restore output.

Seasonal Challenges That Need Professional Help

Some fall issues go beyond homeowner fixes. Birds, squirrels, and rodents often seek shelter under panels during cooler months, leaving behind nests and chewing on wiring. Not only does this reduce performance, but it also creates a fire hazard. Pest activity is one of the leading causes of low solar performance, and professional exclusion measures are the best solution.

Another common challenge is roof maintenance. If your roof shows signs of wear, fall is the right time to consider a roof repair/replacement project before winter storms. In these cases, solar panels need to be temporarily removed and reinstalled to protect both the roof and the system. Working with professionals ensures your panels are handled safely and securely during the process.

How Maintenance Protects Your System in Fall

Fall is the ideal season for preventive care. Here’s why:

• Cleaning removes debris before snow or rain cause buildup to harden.
  
• Inspections catch wiring, grounding, or sealant issues that worsen in cold weather.
  
• Pest exclusion keeps critters out before they multiply under your panels.
  
• Gutter and roof checks prevent drainage problems that could spread to the solar array.
  

Enrolling in a seasonal solar panel maintenance plan gives you peace of mind that your system is protected year-round.

Preventive Measures for Better Efficiency

To minimize energy losses during autumn, homeowners can take a few extra steps:

• Trim overhanging branches before leaves start falling heavily.
  
• Inspect your roof and panel edges for nests, debris, or droppings.
  
• Combine cleaning, pest control, and inspection into a fall maintenance package.
  

Even simple measures like scheduling a solar panel inspection ahead of winter help ensure your array is ready for the season ahead.

Why Wash Me Solar Is the Right Partner

At Wash Me Solar Utah, we understand how frustrating seasonal dips can be when you rely on solar energy. That’s why we combine expert cleaning, pest exclusion, and system care in one service package. Unlike general contractors, we’re trained specifically in solar-safe practices, meaning your panels stay efficient without risking warranty coverage.

Our team doesn’t just clean panels – we troubleshoot shading, check wiring, and make sure your system is prepared for seasonal challenges. By addressing both the obvious and hidden issues, we help maximize your investment and keep your energy bills predictable.

Give us a call today to schedule your free consultation, or to get a free quote for a solar panel cleaning over the phone. 801-210-1387.

Take Control of Fall Solar Performance

A slight dip in solar production during fall is expected, but major drops are preventable. Seasonal debris, shading, pests, and roof conditions all contribute to energy loss—but with the right maintenance and troubleshooting, you can keep your system efficient.

Whether you need cleaning, exclusion, or help with technical repairs, Wash Me Solar is here to keep your panels working their best.

This blog is originally published here: https://www.washmesolar.com/troubleshooting-low-solar-performance-in-fall-months/