FAQs

Do I need to clean my solar panels?

Yes, regular cleaning is considered an essential part of solar panel maintenance for anyone who wants to protect their warranty and maximize their system’s energy output. Most warranties REQUIRE regular cleanings in order for the warranty to remain valid. While rainfall can wash away some loose dust, it is not effective at removing baked-on grime, oily residues, or bird droppings. To ensure your panels are operating at their peak potential and to protect your investment, a periodic, thorough cleaning is necessary.

How do you clean solar panels on the roof?

Cleaning solar panels on a roof requires a strong focus on safety and is best performed with specialized equipment like a water-fed pole and a soft-bristled brush. This allows the panels to be cleaned effectively from a ladder or the roof’s edge, avoiding the risk of falls or damage from walking on the panels. The use of Solar Panel safe cleaning agents is common to ensure a spot-free finish that won’t leave behind light-blocking mineral deposits. Due to the inherent dangers of working at heights, it is advisable to use an experienced and insured professional for this task.

How often should you clean your solar panels?

 The ideal cleaning frequency for solar panels is typically two to three times per year, though this can vary based on the local environment. Homes in areas with high concentrations of dust, pollen, agriculture, or industrial pollution may require more frequent cleanings to maintain optimal performance. Similarly, regions with infrequent rainfall will see a faster accumulation of grime. The tilt of the panels also plays a role, as flatter installations tend to collect more debris than steeply angled ones.

How bad is it if I don’t clean my solar panels?

Neglecting to clean your solar panels can have a significant negative impact on their performance, potentially reducing energy production by up to 40% or more in very dirty conditions. This layer of grime blocks sunlight, which means you are not getting the full financial return from your investment. Over time, stubborn dirt that is baked onto the glass by the sun can also cause permanent staining and “hot spots” that may degrade the panel’s cells.

What should you use to clean solar panels?

The best and most widely recommended materials for cleaning solar panels are products especially made for solar panels and a very soft, non-abrasive brush. This specific combination is industry standard because it effectively removes dirt and grime without scratching the panel’s glass or its anti-reflective coating. Using solar panel specific products also ensures that no mineral spots are left behind, which could otherwise block sunlight.

Is solar panel cleaning worth it?

Solar panel cleaning is generally considered a worthwhile investment because the cost of the service is typically offset by the financial gains from increased energy production. A dirty solar panel system produces less electricity, which means higher utility bills. By paying a small amount for a cleaning, you can restore your system’s efficiency, ensuring you save as much money as possible over the long term.

Do I need to turn off solar panels to clean them?

Yes, it is a critical safety precaution to completely shut down your solar panel system before you begin cleaning. This eliminates the risk of electrical shock from active currents and protects the system’s electronic components from potential damage. The shutdown process typically involves switching off breakers at your inverter and main electrical panel in a specific sequence.

How do you turn off solar panels for cleaning?

The exact procedure for turning off solar panels for cleaning can vary depending on the system’s design and components. It generally requires following a specific shutdown sequence that involves switching off the AC and DC breakers connected to the solar inverter. Because an incorrect shutdown can be hazardous or cause damage, this process should be handled by someone who is thoroughly familiar with the system.

Do solar panels work when dirty?

Yes, dirty solar panels do still work, but their performance is significantly compromised. They will continue to generate some electricity, but the amount will be much lower than what they are capable of producing when clean. Their reduced output means they are not delivering the energy savings or the return on investment that they were designed to provide.

Can you clean solar panels with a pressure washer?

No, you should never use a pressure washer to clean solar panels. The high-pressure water stream can be very destructive, potentially forcing water past the panel’s weatherproof seals, causing micro-cracks in the glass, and damaging the delicate electrical connections. Using a pressure washer will almost certainly void the manufacturer’s warranty and can lead to expensive, irreversible damage.

Can you use dishwashing liquid to clean solar panels?

No, it is not advisable to use dishwashing liquid or any other common household soaps to clean solar panels. These detergents tend to leave behind a thin, sticky soap film, even after rinsing. This residue not only blocks some sunlight but also attracts more dust and pollen, causing the panels to become dirty again much more quickly.

How do you clean under solar panels?

Cleaning the space underneath solar panels to remove debris, leaves, or pest nests is a specialized task that poses significant risks. It often requires specific tools to access the area without harming the complex wiring, the mounting hardware, or the roof surface itself. Due to the potential for causing damage, this type of cleaning should be left to experienced professionals.

Can you clean solar panels with just tap water?

It is generally not recommended to clean solar panels with just tap water, as it contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. When the tap water evaporates, these minerals are left behind as white spots or a hazy film, known as hard water stains. This new layer of residue can block sunlight and reduce the panel’s efficiency. Only use tap water when you are also using cleansers specifically made for Solar Panels, this will ensure all minerals are removed and leaves a streak free shine.