Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to your questions about the maintenance, cleaning, and monitoring of solar panels

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Solar Assistance do?

Solar Assistance specializes in the maintenance, cleaning, monitoring, and breakdown assistance of solar panels in Belgium. Since 2012, we have been helping individuals and companies get the best possible return from their solar panels.

In which regions do you operate?

We are active throughout Belgium — including Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels. Our team is ready to help you, regardless of where your solar panels are installed.

How often should I have my solar panels cleaned?

We recommend having your solar panels cleaned at least 1 to 2 times per year. The frequency may vary depending on your location and environmental factors such as trees, industry, or proximity to roads.

What does a service include?

A standard maintenance service includes a visual inspection, cleaning of the panels, checking the wiring and connections, inspecting the inverter, and a performance analysis of your system.

All questions

Yes, in certain situations, a bidirectional green power meter is mandatory. This is the case when you have solar panels that are still eligible for green power certificates, use a hybrid inverter, and the home battery is connected to the DC side. The meter distinguishes between power from your solar panels and power from the grid, ensuring your production is correctly recorded and your green power certificates are maintained.

The duration and value of green energy certificates for solar panels in Flanders depended on when the installation was commissioned. Installations set up between 2006 and July 2012 received certificates for 20 years, while later installations were entitled to 10 to 15 years of support. Since July 17, 2021, new solar panel installations no longer receive green energy certificates. The value of the certificates also decreased over the years.

It can be concerning to see an error code on your SMA inverter, especially if you are not sure what it means. This error code occurs when work is being carried out on the power grid nearby. As a safety measure, the inverter shuts itself down. You must wait until the work is completed.

S&P recently published its Tier 1 ranking for 2025. This annual assessment (unlike Bloomberg’s quarterly ranking) provides a clear picture of the reliability and quality of the leading manufacturers in the solar energy sector.

Depending on the brand, there is usually a 10- to 30-year product warranty. Every solar panel has not only a product guarantee, but also a performance guarantee of 90% of nominal yield after 15 years and 85% after 25 years. These guarantees can be found on the technical data sheets of the installed solar panels.

Depending on the brand and type, a manufacturer’s warranty of at least 5 years, usually 10 years, typically applies. It is possible that you purchased an extended warranty through the installer. Please note, just because the additional purchase is listed on your invoice, it does not always mean the installer actually purchased it. Ultimately, only the manufacturer can confirm with certainty whether or not your inverter is still under warranty, based on the serial number.

When your installer goes bankrupt, you no longer have a point of contact for maintenance, monitoring, or interventions in case of malfunctions. Service or support agreements often lapse, meaning problems persist longer and your installation may yield less return.

Fortunately, you are not alone. You can always rely on Solar Assistance. We take over the monitoring of your installation and once again ensure reliability, correct operation, and maximum yield.


More information can be found here

Yes, Solar Assistance can take over existing solar panel installations, regardless of who originally installed them. We provide full follow-up for your installation, from monitoring and maintenance to interventions in case of malfunctions. This ensures correct operation and maximum yield once again, with one clear point of contact.


More info can be found here

You can always count on us. Even without a contract, we perform interventions in case of malfunctions or problems with your installation. This way, you are never dependent on your original installer. However, if you want long-term certainty and want to prevent problems from going unnoticed, we recommend choosing the Solar COMFY plan. This plan is available from €16.99 per month and ensures you have monitoring, maintenance, and fast support in case of malfunctions. This ensures your installation continues to perform optimally and gives you one clear point of contact, without the worries.


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In the event of a malfunction, we act as quickly as possible. In most cases, we are on-site within 1 to 2 business days to analyze the problem and identify the cause of the loss in yield.


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In practice, there are three different warranties involved with solar panels, each with its own impact:

  • The manufacturer’s warranty covers the solar panels and inverter themselves. This usually lasts around 10 years for inverters and longer for panels, and remains valid even if your installer is no longer active. In that case, Solar Assistance can handle the file directly with the manufacturer to ensure your warranty is correctly utilized.
  • The legal warranty on the installation is provided by the installer and relates to the placement. This typically lasts 2 years and expires if the installer ceases operations or goes bankrupt.
  • In addition, there is often a commercial warranty. This goes beyond standard warranties and offers extra security in terms of performance, monitoring, and service.

In practice, we see that these last two often lapse when an installer disappears. That is why it is important to have a partner who continues to monitor your installation and can intervene quickly when necessary, ensuring your yield is maintained.


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If you currently have monitoring via the inverter manufacturer’s portal, it will continue to work and we will read it via our portal. If you do not have monitoring via the manufacturer’s portal, we will install a device that enables monitoring.


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  • Belgian Energy
  • Belgian Solar
  • DA-technics
  • Degelek, Kortrijk
  • Dyfrint
  • Eltex
  • Enbicor
  • Energea
  • Enfinity
  • Grean Solar
  • Gutami
  • H&S Powersolutions
  • Elektrix
  • JV Solar
  • KTI – WTI
  • Marimi Solar Panels
  • Nova Energy
  • Sky Solar
  • Soleco
  • Solar Cube
  • Solar Living
  • Solar Total
  • Solarnova
  • Sunlogics
  • Time 4 change
  • Twinergy Sun Tile
  • Your energy expert
  • V&R Electics Solar Company
  • Watts Technics


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The right battery capacity is best chosen based on your consumption, your solar panels, and what you want to achieve with your installation. Those who primarily want to use more of their own solar energy often find a smaller battery sufficient. Those who also want to manage peaks, be less dependent on the grid, or want extra security during power outages are better off choosing a larger capacity.

In practice, there is no standard answer. A battery that is too small will not utilize your full potential. A battery that is too large will offer a lower return. That is why we always look at your specific situation and advise a solution that ensures the best long-term return. Read more below to help you make the right choice.

In Belgium, solar panels are recommended to be at least once a year cleaning. In areas with a lot of dust, pollen or near industry, it is twice a year better. It is best to do this in the spring (for the sunny summer months) and possibly in the autumn if a lot of dirt has accumulated.

Solar panels are a smart investment in sustainability and energy saving. But as with any investment, proper maintenance is crucial to achieve optimal returns. A much underestimated aspect of this is regular cleaning of solar panels.

Below, we explain why cleaning is not an afterthought, but a strategic necessity.

A powerful storm can cause damage to many aspects of your home, including your solar panels. What should you do when the inevitable happens and your solar panels are hit by storm damage? Below, we look at how Solar Assistance can help you repair the damage quickly and efficiently.

Yes, that is possible. When moving, solar panels can be safely dismantled and reinstalled on your new home. Solar Assistance guides this entire process, from dismantling to reinstallation. This way, you can be sure that everything is done correctly and that your system continues to perform optimally at your new location.

Infrared inspections are an excellent way to do this. An infrared inspection is a technique that uses thermal images to see temperature differences. This is very useful for detecting problems in solar panels, such as broken cells, bad connections or parts that are too hot.

Shade doesn’t have to be a problem, but it does require a thoughtful approach. Shade can be caused by trees, chimneys, or dormers, for example, but also by surrounding buildings.

In such situations, it is important to technically align the installation accordingly. Consider using optimizers or micro-inverters, which ensure that shade on one panel has less impact on the rest of the installation.

A correct analysis of your roof and the shadow patterns is crucial. This helps you determine if solar panels are profitable and how best to place them to get the most out of your installation.

Yes! An inverter with multiple MPPTs can optimise panels with different slopes or orientations individually, which is better for complex roof structures.

In many cases, this is normal and often has a logical explanation. An inverter is deliberately matched to your installation and will not always display the maximum peak power of your solar panels.

In addition, external factors can also play a role. Think of temperature, dirt on the panels, shade, or technical deviations. All these elements can cause your installation to temporarily perform less effectively.

If you are unsure whether everything is working correctly, an analysis of your installation is recommended. This way, you can be certain whether the behavior is normal or if there is an actual loss of efficiency.

The efficiency of an inverter indicates how much of the generated solar energy is effectively converted into usable electricity. Modern inverters have an efficiency of 96-99%.

MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) is a technology in inverters that ensures solar panels always operate at the optimal power point, giving you the highest possible yield.

An inverter consumes a small amount of power for its internal operation. In practice, this usually amounts to less than 1% of the energy generated. This consumption is therefore very limited and has hardly any impact on the overall efficiency of your installation.

That depends on the power of your inverter and the specifications of your solar panels. For example, a 3 kW inverter can typically handle an installation of about 10 to 12 panels of 300 Wp.

However, correct sizing is a custom job. By correctly matching your installation, you ensure optimal efficiency without loss. An analysis of your current setup immediately provides clarity on what is technically possible and profitable.

A grid-tied inverter is a model connected to the electricity grid.

Inverters only work when there is sufficient sunlight. At night, they receive no input from the solar panels and switch off automatically. This is normal.

No, without an inverter, the generated direct current (DC) cannot be converted into usable alternating current (AC).

A hybrid inverter combines two functions in one device: it converts the power from your solar panels and manages a battery at the same time.

Whether you need one depends on your situation. If you already have a battery or plans to install one, a hybrid inverter is often a logical choice. If you only have solar panels and no plans for storage, a classic inverter usually suffices.

The most important thing is that your installation is future-proof and tailored to your consumption. This way, you get the maximum return from your energy.

An inverter that gets too hot usually makes it clearly known. Your installation yields less than expected, you see error messages, or the inverter temporarily shuts itself down to prevent damage.

Overheating often occurs due to poor ventilation, high outdoor temperatures, or unfavorable placement, such as in direct sunlight or in an enclosed space.

If you notice these signs, it is important to take action quickly. This prevents loss of efficiency and extends the lifespan of your installation.

This is usually normal. When there is little sunlight, such as during heavy cloud cover or rain, the inverter may receive insufficient voltage and will temporarily switch off or go into standby. This is a built-in safety feature to avoid damage and inefficiency.

As soon as the sunlight returns, the inverter automatically restarts.

If your inverter continues to fail during normal weather, if error messages appear, or if it does not restart on its own, a technical inspection is recommended to prevent loss of efficiency.

Inverters can operate in temperatures between -25°C and 60°C, but extreme heat reduces efficiency. In hot weather, the inverter may limit itself to prevent damage. This temporarily lowers the yield. Protection from direct sunlight helps prevent overheating.

An inverter must be placed on a cool, dry and well-ventilated place.

Yes, some modern inverters receive software updates to operate more efficiently or to follow new grid regulations.

Yes, you can install a more powerful inverter if you want to expand your solar installation, for example.

Replacing an inverter usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on accessibility and connection type. A simple replacement with the same connections is quicker, while an upgrade to a different type of inverter may require extra work.

If an inverter breaks down, your solar installation will no longer work correctly. Your panels will continue to generate power, but without a functioning inverter, this power will not be converted to usable alternating current.

Replacement may pay off if you switch to a more energy-efficient or smarter inverter, for example, with battery support.

For small installations on a shade-free roof, a string inverter usually sufficient. For roofs with partial shade its micro-inverters or optimisers a better choice.

If you have a problem with your SMA inverter, a reset can often help. You do this by briefly switching the installation off completely and restarting it.

First switch off the AC fuse, then remove the DC switch from the inverter and wait at least one minute. Then replace the DC switch and switch the AC fuse back on.

If the inverter does not restart afterwards or if the problem persists, a technical inspection is recommended to avoid further malfunctions.

If the mains voltage above 253V comes, the inverter switches itself off to prevent damage. This is common in areas with many solar panels.

Inverters can be both indoors and outdoors be placed inside, but indoors is often better for longevity.

If your inverter fails or you see an error message, you can first check a few things yourself. See if the fuses are still active, restart the inverter, and check the error code via the display or the app. High grid voltage can also cause the inverter to shut itself down.

If the problem persists, it often indicates a technical defect. In that case, a targeted analysis and intervention are needed to avoid loss of yield and to get your installation working correctly again quickly.

A faint humming sound is normal, especially during peak hours. This is due to the operation of cooling fans and electronic components.

If the noise suddenly becomes louder, irregular, or if you hear clicking sounds, this may indicate overheating, wear, or a defect. In that case, an inspection is recommended to prevent further problems and loss of efficiency.

You can check this in several ways. Look at the status lights on the inverter, track your production via the monitoring app, and compare your yield with previous periods and the weather.

If you see error messages or notice a clear drop in yield, there may be a problem. In that case, an inspection is recommended to avoid further losses and keep your installation working optimally.

On average, the lifetime of an inverter is between 10 and 15 years, depending on the make, model and environmental factors. This is shorter than the lifetime of solar panels, which are usually 25 to 30 years last.

An inverter is the heart of a solar panel system. Solar panels generate direct current (DC) on, but household appliances and the power grid operate on alternating current (AC).

You can easily check this by visually inspecting your panels for dirt, leaves, or bird droppings. Additionally, a sudden or structural drop in your yield, visible via your monitoring or in comparison with previous years, may indicate soiling.

If you are in doubt, an inspection is recommended to avoid loss of efficiency and to ensure your installation performs optimally.

Some manufacturers require panels to be cleaned regularly to maintain the warranty. Check the warranty terms of your solar panels to ensure you meet the requirements.

Read our tips here.

No, a pressure washer can damage the seals and the glass. This can lead to leaks and micro-cracks in the solar cells.

The best time is in the morning or evening, when the panels are not hot. This prevents water from evaporating too quickly and ensures the cleaning remains effective.

In terms of timing, spring and potentially autumn are ideal. This ensures you are fully prepared for the period when your system needs to generate the most energy.

No, dish soap or detergent often leaves a greasy layer that attracts dirt. Preferably use osmosis water or demineralized water. If a cleaning agent is still required, choose a special solar panel cleaner.

Solar Assistance uses telescopic brushes and osmosis water to clean the panels streak-free.

Dirty panels can produce 5 to 20% less energy, depending on the degree of soiling. In extreme cases, such as with heavy bird droppings or long-term dirt, this can even reach up to 30%.

No, rain does wash away loose dust, but stubborn dirt such as bird droppings, pollen, and air pollution often stays behind. Over time, a thin layer of grime can build up, reducing your yield. That is why manual cleaning is necessary.

Yes, some inverters have a display where you can manually read the data. Others support LAN or Bluetooth.

Modern systems have an accuracy of 95-99%. For exact measurements, a smart meter is recommended.

A lower yield often has a logical explanation. Seasonal changes play a major role, with fewer hours of sunshine in the autumn and winter.

In addition, dirt on your solar panels, such as dust, leaves, or bird droppings, can noticeably reduce production.

If the yield remains lower than expected or if you see deviations compared to previous years, an inspection is recommended to ensure there are no technical issues and that your return remains optimal.

Yes, Solar Assistance monitoring provides notifications in case of anomalies.

Ideally, you should check weekly if the yield is normal. Large fluctuations or error messages require further investigation.

First, check if the WiFi or LAN connection is active, as the inverter may be temporarily offline.

If the problem persists, restarting both the inverter and your router often helps.

If the connection still doesn’t work after that, a further check is recommended to ensure your monitoring continues to function correctly and you don’t miss any important notifications.

You can install a smart meter or a separate consumption monitor such as the HomeWizard P1 Meter.

Yes, but only if you have a micro-inverter system or optimisers (such as SolarEdge, Enphase or Tigo).

This is usually related to a connection or system issue. Often, the inverter is temporarily offline due to a broken Wi-Fi connection, a monitoring server outage, or outdated firmware.

Also check if your inverter is still active. In many cases, simply restarting the inverter and your router is enough.

If the data is still missing, an inspection is recommended to ensure your installation continues to be monitored correctly and you don’t lose any yield.

Go to the network settings via the inverter or the app, select your WiFi network, and enter the password. Afterwards, check if the data is appearing correctly in your monitoring.

Please note: some inverters only work with a wired connection or require an additional WiFi module.

 

This depends on your inverter brand and additional devices, but some popular options include:
  • SolarEdge Monitoring (for SolarEdge inverters)
  • Fronius Solar.web (for Fronius inverters)
  • SMA Sunny Portal (for SMA inverters)
  • Enphase Enlighten (for micro-inverters)
  • HomeWizard P1 Meter (for consumption monitoring in Belgium)
  • Solarman or Solar-log (brand-independent systems)

Please note: some of these apps require a separate subscription or additional hardware.

A good solar panel monitoring app shows a lot of data.
Some advanced systems also show temperature, solar irradiance and individual panel performance.

Most inverters and smart energy meters record the power generated and send that data via WiFi or a wired connection to an app or online portal.

Solar panels monitoring involves continuously tracking the performance of your installation via an app or online platform. You can see how much energy you generate and receive notifications in case of deviations or malfunctions.

This is important because problems are often not visible. Without monitoring, your system can underperform for long periods without you noticing, resulting in a direct loss of yield.

With monitoring, you have control and certainty. You detect problems faster and ensure that your solar panels keep doing what they are supposed to do: deliver maximum yield.