Company spokesperson David Sharpe says “blustery, northerly winds and dusty dry conditions can lead to dust and dirt deposits on your solar panels – stopping them from working as well as they could”.

“Very quickly, lots of dust gets deposited on your solar panels, along with mould, bird droppings, and other debris” Mr Sharpe says.

“This accumulation of material can reduce system performance by up to 30 per cent.”

He recommends you have your solar panels regularly tested and cleaned by a qualified expert, to make the most of their power producing capability.

Shape Group’s solar technicians can provide a comprehensive assessment of your solar system’s performance, which includes efficiency and output testing of both the inverter and panels.

This will optimise its productivity and alert you to possible system losses that may be occurring without your knowledge. He says it’s also critical that installations and servicing is conducted using accredited technicians, and up-to-date testing equipment.

“Solar systems produce very hight voltages, and if damaged or poorly installed – they present a major electrocution and fire risk.”

While your inspection is being carried out, Mr Sharpe suggests chatting to your technician about micro inverter technology.

The new system allows solar panels to be individually optimised so that if one develops a fault, it will not affect the others – and they will continue as normal.

The company also provides heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, and electrical services.

• Get them cleaned: Solar panels require regular cleaning – you can’t just rely on heavy rain
• Keep an eye on your inverter: After dirtiness, inverter problems are the most common reason for solar panels failing
• Leave it to the experts: Solar systems present an electrocution hazard, and are best cared for by qualified technicians