Solar owner's toolkit
What we'd look at after the panels are up: backup power, cleaning, critter protection and monitoring.
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Backup power and batteries
Where the utility pays less for exported power than it charges you (NV Energy credits about 75% of retail), storing your own power is worth more. A battery also keeps lights and the fridge on in an outage.
Cleaning
Dust can cut output 10–25% in dry Western climates. Use soft brushes and pure (deionized) water; hard tap water leaves spots, and pressure washers can void warranties. On a steep, high or tile roof, hire it out.
Critter and pigeon guards
A clip-on mesh guard closes the gap under the panels so birds can't nest. Clips that don't drill into the panel frame keep the warranty intact. Installed cost is often $600–$1,500.
Monitoring
Most inverters come with an app. If yours stopped working, or your installer closed, a service company can reconnect it or add a separate monitor so a failure doesn't go unnoticed for months.
Updated November 2026