Solar and Heat Pump Maintenance Schedule: What to Do and When in Canada

Introduction

Whether you’re in snowy Edmonton or humid Halifax, regular maintenance is the secret to keeping your clean-energy systems running efficiently year-round.

But what should you actually do—and when?

In this seasonal guide, we break down the ideal maintenance schedule for Canadian solar panels and heat pumps.

From snow removal and filter cleaning to inverter checks and pro tune-ups, you’ll get a month-by-month plan to protect your investment, avoid breakdowns, and maximize savings.

Winter (December–February): Keep Systems Clear and Cozy

Solar:

Clear snow after major storms (use a telescoping solar snow rake)

Monitor inverter data for drops in production

Inspect panel edges for ice dams or pooling meltwater

Heat Pump:

Clean indoor filters monthly (especially with high winter use)

Check outdoor units for ice buildup; gently clear snow

Ensure airflow isn’t blocked by drifts or fences

Ontario Tip:
Avoid running your heat pump in “emergency heat” mode—it’s less efficient and only meant for backup.

Spring (March–May): Time for a Clean Start

Solar:

Do a full panel cleaning (soft sponge + water)

Inspect wiring and racking for winter damage

Book a system inspection if inverter data looks off

Heat Pump:

Rinse outdoor coil with a garden hose (no pressure washers!)

Replace filters if they look grey or clogged

Test cooling mode before summer heat hits

BC homeowners:
Spring pollen and tree fluff can clog filters fast—check them bi-weekly during April and May.

Summer (June–August): Optimize for Peak Performance

Solar:

Check for shading from new tree growth

Monitor daily output with your app to catch any panel issues

Optional: mid-summer clean if bird droppings or dust are visible

Heat Pump:

Keep an eye on performance—cold spots might indicate airflow issues

Clean filters monthly in high-cooling households

Ensure outdoor unit has 2+ feet of clearance for airflow

Alberta Tip:
If you’re near dusty farmland or construction, consider cleaning panels twice during summer.

Fall (September–November): Prep for the Freeze

Solar:

Do a final panel clean before snow season

Inspect roof mounts and flashing for wear

Update monitoring software or inverter firmware if needed

Heat Pump:

Book your annual professional service (refrigerant check, coil inspection, drainage lines)

Clear leaves and debris from outdoor units

Switch to heating mode and test output

Quebec homeowners:
September is ideal for tune-ups—most HVAC pros are fully booked by late October.

Annual Tasks & Reminders

Task	Frequency	DIY or Pro
Clean heat pump filters	Monthly (min.)	DIY
Rinse solar panels	2–3x/year	DIY or Pro
Inspect inverter performance logs	Monthly	DIY
Full solar/heat pump checkup	Annually (Fall)	Pro recommended
Check warranty & insurance docs	Annually	DIY

Use a calendar app or smart home reminder to stay on schedule.
Tools like Sense, Emporia, or your utility’s dashboard can also track performance trends over time.

Conclusion

Staying ahead of maintenance doesn’t require a toolbox full of skills—just a bit of planning.
By following a seasonal schedule and handling the small stuff early, Canadian homeowners can prevent surprise breakdowns, extend equipment life, and keep their energy savings growing.