Do You Need to Turn Off Your Solar Panels to Clean Them?
You may notice that our solar panels have a lot of dust and debris on them. This can happen over time in some areas, especially where there is a lot of dust or air pollution is poor. It is not always necessary to clean solar panels but, if you do decide to do so, it is always a good idea to learn more about how to do it properly. There are risks to cleaning solar panels; you could damage them or make them less efficient overall. If you do need to clean them, you may have plenty of questions. Do I need to turn off solar panels to clean them? How do you clean them well enough to see an improvement in function?
The first step is to check with the manufacturer of any product before you clean them. You want to be sure you know the proper way to clean the solar panels so as not to damage them in any way. Improper cleaning could lead to problems with efficiency or the voiding of your warranty. Once you do that, consider the following tips and guidelines.
Why Do You Need to Clean Solar Panels?
The first question is whether or not you actually need to clean solar panels. It is not always necessary. Most of the time, the rain will work to wash away dirt and dust, which are the most common problems associated with solar panels. However, there are some situations where you may need to put a bit more effort into the cleaning process.
- Air pollution: If you live in an area with a significant amount of air pollution or smog, you may notice more dust and debris on your solar panels than those who do not live in this type of environment. In these cases, it may become necessary to clean the solar panels.
- Construction areas: In areas where there is a significant amount of construction work taking place or landscaping development, it may be necessary to clean solar panels. In these environments, more soil and dirt get onto the structure of the panels, making them work less efficiently overall.
- Sandy areas: In some areas where there is a significant amount of sand present, such as near a beach or a golf course with large sand dunes, there could be a higher risk of sand landing on the solar panels, especially those that are low to the ground. Be careful not to scratch the surface, removing sand.
- Dry conditions: Those living in a desert-like environment or in areas where there is a drought are also likely to need to consider cleaning solar panels. Doing so could help to remove more of the dirt that is on the panels, ensuring they work more efficiently.
- High pollen areas: Some areas where there is a lot of pollen present could also be at risk for a buildup on solar panels. In these areas, it is a good idea to clean the solar panels if the rain is not enough to remove the material.
To find out more about whether you have to clean solar panels and in what situations, check out our blog post on Do You Have to Clean Your Solar Panels.
Can You Get Electrocuted Cleaning Solar Panels?
Yes, it is possible to be electrocuted when cleaning solar panels if you do not follow the proper methods of doing so. It is a safety precaution that is necessary to take. Turning off your solar panels helps to minimize the risk of electrical shock should the connections become too wet.
That means that before you clean the solar panels, you should shut down the system completely. Follow the directions from the manufacturer on how to do this, and be sure that you follow the procedures to start it back up again as well.
Also, keep in mind that you should never touch the underside of the solar panels. If you are worried about a significant amount of buildup of debris or dirt here, call a solar panel repair tech for guidance. This can prove to be critical to ensuring that you do not damage the surface and the electrical components. To ensure that you know the proper way to clean solar panels, it is a good idea to read our blog post on How Often Should You Get Your Solar Panels Cleaned before starting the cleaning process.
Does Rain Clean Solar Panels?
Most of the time, people do not need to do anything extensive to clean their solar panels. That is because the rain will likely take care of most concerns. The rain is typically able to remove about 95% of any buildup of dust, pollen, dirt, or debris on the surface, making it very easy for you not to have to do anything about the process.
Rain will work to meet most needs, but there are some situations where rain is not enough. For example, if the rain is not heavy enough, that may make it hard for the debris to be washed away. Also, if you have a significant amount of buildup, especially in areas with heavy smog, you may need a higher quality, more thorough cleaning of the solar panels. In this case, it is often best to turn to a professional for help with them. For more detailed information on the best methods to clean your solar panels at home, read our blog post on Top 5 Best Methods to Clean Your Solar Panels at Home.
Let Our Team Help You with Your Solar Panel Needs
There is no doubt that ensuring your solar panels are operating the best is important. Our team can offer guidance and support to you whenever you need it. To get started, reach out to us about installing solar panels on your home. When you do, we’ll discuss any questions you have. Set up an appointment with our team today to learn more.
How Much Does Solar Panel Cleaning Cost? A Quick Guide
Solar panels are an excellent way to reduce energy costs, but they don’t come without some additional overhead. Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to keeping your solar panels functioning correctly.
But how much does it cost to clean solar panels?
Let’s break down the expenses you need to be aware of when keeping your solar panels in tip-top shape.
What Is the Average Cost of Cleaning and Maintaining Solar Panels?
The average cost of cleaning and maintaining solar panels is around 8-25 per panel. Depending on the number of panels you have and the type of panels, such as Rigid Solar Panels or Flexible Solar Panels, that could cost anywhere from 150-300 per visit and around 500-700 annually for basic solar panel cleaning and maintenance.
For more serious maintenance, such as fixing broken panel glass or wiring, that annual average could increase by a few hundred dollars. That said, the exact cost will depend on several factors. A professional solar panel cleaning company should provide clear pricing upfront so you know what to expect before signing any contracts.
What Affects the Solar Panel Cleaning and Maintaining Cost?
A range of 500-700 per year leaves room for variation in price to clean and maintain your solar panels. So, what goes into the total cost? While labor is the highest contributor, aspects such as roof steepness/height, debris buildup, and materials and equipment are all considered when determining the price.
Materials and Equipment
Depending on your solar panel array, you may need to purchase specific materials and equipment to clean them properly.
For example, if you have a glass-paneled system, you’ll need specialized window cleaners or a pressure washer to clean your array thoroughly. In addition, specific brushes can help remove stubborn debris between the panel’s cells. All of these items can add to your overall cost.
Labor
Hiring a professional cleaner or installer is often recommended if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself. It may be tempting to DIY, but — especially with rooftop installations — your personal safety should be paramount. Professional cleaners usually charge by the hour for their services, so keep this in mind when budgeting for your solar panel cleaning needs.
Some installers may provide maintenance services such as cleaning as part of their contract, so inquire if that applies to your situation.
Job complexity also goes into calculating labor costs. If you have installed power kits in an RV with solar panels on top, you can easily unplug the array for a quick clean. But complex systems that integrate with the home electrical circuits may require more time and expertise for the cleaners to do their job thoroughly.
Roof Steepness and Height
If your array is on a steeply pitched roof or at a significant height, you may need to consider additional safety features when budgeting its upkeep. Any type of roofing work is dangerous and physically demanding, and the labor cost reflects these risks.
In addition, cleaners or installers may require special equipment to access the array safely. All these factors add to the overall price tag.
If your system isn’t installed on your roof and is easily accessible from the ground, such as with portable solar panels, you may be able to clean the panels yourself easily.
Condition/Debris Buildup
A significant buildup of dirt or debris could require additional labor hours, increasing the overall cost of cleaning and maintenance services. Inspect your array regularly so you can address potential issues quickly before they become more severe and expensive problems.
Geographic Area
The geographic area where you live can also affect the overall cost of maintaining your solar array. Some regions may have higher labor rates than others due to local market conditions or the availability of workers with specialized skill sets.
It’s always best practice to get quotes from multiple companies before deciding who should perform any maintenance tasks on your home’s solar panel system.
How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?
You should clean solar panels every six months, depending on the amount of debris that accumulates and the climate where you live.
If you live in a dry climate, you may not have to clean them as often. However, if you live in an area with higher levels of dust or pollen in the air, you should plan to clean your solar panels more frequently.
Additionally, debris such as bird droppings or tree sap can reduce energy output. You’ll want these removed immediately.
If you live in a climate where snow and ice accumulate, failing to remove it can negatively impact your panels’ efficiency.
What Are the Benefits of Cleaning Solar Panels?
Cleaning your solar panels has several benefits, including improved efficiency, longer lifespan, warranty protection, better appearance, and more. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Proper Cleaning Water
You have to be careful with the water used in the cleaning process. Hiring a professional ensures they’ll use the right kind of water.
Local water can have a high mineral content, leaving a residue on your panels and eventually reducing their effectiveness. Professional solar panel cleaners only use distilled water that contains no minerals or impurities. Before cleaning your panels, they may bring their own water supply or use tools that filter out unneeded minerals and pollutants.
The Right Equipment
If you have dirt or debris on your panels, it’s time to hire a professional cleaning service. They’ll use the right tools, like power washers or cleaning solutions specifically designed for solar panel cleaning.
Check with the manufacturer before using anything abrasive on the panel surface so you don’t damage it or unintentionally void the warranty.
Longevity
Keeping your panels clean prolongs their life expectancy and maintains their efficiency over time. Dirt and grime can build up on your panels’ surfaces, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight effectively. If kept in this condition, they won’t produce as much energy as they could if they were clean! Properly maintained and cared for solar panels will last much longer than neglected ones.
Efficiency
Clean photovoltaic (PV) panels capture sunlight more efficiently, leading to higher energy production levels. Cleaning panels ensures more energy production for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) generated by your system. It also means lower utility bills since you won’t need to purchase as much electricity from your local provider!
If you’re relying on your solar panels to work as your whole home backup power solution, routine cleaning to maintain efficiency is worth it.
Warranty
Most manufacturers offer warranties on their products, but many can become void if proper maintenance isn’t done regularly—including keeping solar panels clean!
Read through any warranty agreement’s fine print before investing in new photovoltaic equipment. Look at the terms for proper upkeep and care to keep the warranty coverage valid.
Appearance
Keeping your solar panels clean makes them look great! Aesthetics are important, too, when it comes to a property upgrade like solar panels. Having sparkling sun-catching surfaces adds an extra touch of elegance that looks much better than debris-covered, dirty panels.
Conclusion
Many factors affect solar panel cleaning costs, from the amount of dirt and debris to the steepness of your roof.
Investing in regular maintenance typically saves time and money by reducing repair costs or preventing expensive panel replacements, allowing you to enjoy your solar power for years to come — often 25 or more!If you’re ready for the highest efficiency yet in solar panels, consider EcoFlow. With options for rigid, flexible, and portable solar panels and capacities ranging from 110W-400W, you’ll find everything you need to power your home and lower (or eliminate) your electricity bills once and for all.
EcoFlow is a portable power and renewable energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace-of-mind power to customers in over 85 markets through its DELTA and RIVER product lines of portable power stations and eco-friendly accessories.
How To Clean Solar Panels, How Often, Maintenance Trick for Max Power
Installing solar panesl on your home to supplement, or fully power it is an awesome way to help the planet, but did you know that learning how to clean solar panels correctly can have an impact on the performance of your panels?
Dirt, dust and grime can interfere with the productivity of the panel and also shorten its lifespan.
And, you can’t simply count on the rain to do it for you.
Fortunately, it’s not as complicated as it sounds.
Knowing how to clean solar panels – and how not to clean solar panels – is essential to maintaining their energy efficiency. Fortunately, cleaning most solar panels is closer to household cleaning than industrial labor.
Common household items and common safety measures can keep the solar panel operating optimally.
You can easily learn how to clean solar panels and how often you should do it using this complete guide…which will ensure that you retain maximum power output.
Where Can I Learn How Often To Clean Solar Panels?
Due to external factors such as varying climates, the physical placement of the solar panels, and the location’s fauna and pests, there is no standard answer to how often solar panels should be cleaned.
Environments that are more prone to dust accumulation – such as deserts with low precipitation and high winds – will require solar panel operators to perform more frequent cleaning.
Visible accumulation of debris and significant reductions in energy capture are strong indicators that solar panels are due for cleansing.
Visual inspections and energy monitoring will often indicate when a solar panel needs to be cleaned. When a solar panel looks dirty or starts to produce less energy, you should take care of it.
How To Clean Solar Panels: 7 Steps
Fortunately, the techniques used for cleaning household Windows are exactly how to clean solar panels.
Simply spraying water removes most of a solar panel’s grime, and the combination of a non-abrasive brush and glass-friendly cleaners can take care of more difficult impurities such as biological stains.
The only major complication is applying safety precautions.
Homeowners and cleaning personnel should ensure that solar panels are powered off during cleaning.
It’s also a good idea to ensure that the panel can be accessed safely, so never do the job on a roof by yourself.
How To Clean Solar Panels From the Ground
Cleaning solar panels from the ground is not different from cleaning common glass fixtures such as Windows and glass doors.
However, it’s vital to FOCUS solely on the reflective side of the solar panel and avoid contact with a solar panel’s underside.
How To Clean Solar Water Heater Panels
Unless the manufacturer’s documentation states otherwise, the guidelines on how to clean solar panels are the same for cleaning solar water heater panels.
Consider hiring a professional if the solar water heater panels are installed on high places such as roofs that feature a steep grade.
How To Clean Solar Panels on Garden Lights
The process of cleaning solar panels on garden lights is like cleaning household and industrial-sized solar panels.
Though non-abrasive household cleaners are often sufficient, checking the manufacturer’s documentation is advised.
Typically, it’s safe to use a window cleaner on these easy-to-reach solar panel garden lights.
How To Clean Cloudy Solar Light Panels
The process of cleaning solar light panels uses similar materials and steps as cleaning solar panels.
Solar light panel operators should FOCUS on cleaning the plastic and erring on the side of using non-abrasive cleaning tools and solutions.
If you have cloudy panels, it may be an issue with the manufacturing, or the panels could simply be aging. In either case, check with your manufacturer first. They may have a simple solution.
How To Clean Solar Panels on Roof
Contracting a third-party solar cleaner is ideal for rooftop installations that you cannot safely reach on your own.
If you do not have the equipment and training to reach precariously placed solar panels, contact professionals.
How To Clean Solar Lights
Treat solar lights the same way you would treat solar panels.
Make sure that the photovoltaic panel is clean, without dirt and grime, and check it every month.
Solar Panel for AC Unit: Cleaning Considerations
Solar-powered AC units frequently require multiple solar panels to operate properly.
However, unless the manufacturer’s documentation states otherwise, the guidelines and tools for cleaning a solar panel for AC unit are the same as how to clean solar panels for other uses such as general energy generation and water heating.
Cleaning Solution for Solar Panels
With regards to cleaning, most solar panels can be treated similarly to household Windows. Cleaning solutions commonly found in supermarkets are acceptable if they’re non-abrasive.
Mixtures of soap and water will work as well, but it’s advisable to strongly dilute the soap (to prevent any leftover buildup).
Most of a solar panel’s dust and debris can be removed with water. Rainwater acts as a natural dust remover. Hoses are an acceptable solution if the water is soft, and it is sprayed from a safe distance.
However, there’s more to solar power than installing a panel and enjoying sunny days and lower electricity bills.
Maximizing the benefits and lifespan of solar panels requires consistently monitoring and maintaining the panels.
Carbon Footprint: Solar Panels Lower Than Utility Costs
When properly implemented and installed, solar panels can be a powerful method of reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.
Addressing the climate change crisis and reducing the global carbon footprint will require multiple actions at once.
Switching from dirty energy sources – such as oil and natural gas – to environmentally-friendly energy will be crucial to the world’s survival.
Cities, groups, and individuals switching to renewable energy such as solar power will be one crucial step toward reducing the average American’s carbon footprint.
One acre of solar panels generating clean energy can generate up to 447 megawatts per hour; replacing an equivalently-producing dirty fuel with carbon footprint solar panels can lower the release of carbon dioxide by 138 metric tons a year. 1
Although solar panels have a heavy eco-cost during production and disposal, the current benefits, especially to homeowners, is significant.
Benefits of Cleaning Solar Panels
Maintaining energy efficiency is one of the most vital benefits of cleaning solar panels. Dust, grime, and biological stains block the sun’s rays, so routine cleaning is crucial to maximizing energy efficiency.
Routine cleaning also extends the lifetime operation of solar panels. Removing stains and particles before they can inflict long-term damage is a key component of solar panel maintenance.
Consequences of Leaving Solar Panels Dirty
Failure to routinely clean solar panels can dramatically reduce their energy efficiency. One month of gathering dust and other ray-blocking impurities can lead to a 30% drop in a solar panel’s energy-capturing ability. 2
In addition, excessive buildup of dirt and grime can damage solar panels. Biological waste and large quantities of dust can cause problems such as scratches and hot spots.
Size of Standard Solar Panel: Myths Versus Reality
The size of standard solar panel depends on the size of its solar cells, the number of its solar cells, and its intended use. Most solar panels used for residential and industrial buildings have square cells with side lengths of 156 millimeters (approximately 6.14 inches). 3
Solar panels for residential use commonly have 60 cells. When those cells are arranged in a 6-by-10 grid, the resulting solar panel would be 1.56 meters long (roughly 5.12 feet) and 0.94 meters wide (about 3.07 feet).
Solar panels for commercial use often have 72 cells. When those cells are arranged in a 6-by-12 grid, the resulting solar panel would be 1.872 meters long (roughly 6.14 feet) and 0.94 meters wide (about 3.07 feet).
Solar Panel Cleaning Tips
Prior to any cleaning attempts, review the documentation that corresponds to the solar panels. Solar panels can vary significantly by manufacturer, so complying with the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings is essential when formulating how to clean solar panels.
Clean their solar panels during the coolest parts of the day. Excessive heat can cause water and cleaning solutions to evaporate, which can lead to efficiency-reducing smears and streaks.
So, early morning or late evening is the best time.
Since solar panels are electrical devices, an error can seriously injure a person who is attempting to clean it without the proper access, or damage the solar panel. This is especially the case for solar panels installed in high areas such as residential roofs.
Avoiding Common Mistakes During Solar Panels Washing
Non-professionals should not leave the ground in attempts to clean solar panels. High and hard-to-reach solar panels should be treated by professionals who have the experience, training, and equipment to safely reach and cleanse them.
Cleaning materials that scratch household glass will also scratch solar panels. Applying hard water and coarse cleaning agents will permanently damage solar panels.
Do not attempt to clean any part of the solar panel other than the surface.
Attempting to clean the underside of the solar panel or other concealed parts could lead to injury or damage.
Solar Panel Maintenance
Regular monitoring is the best method for solar panel maintenance.
Routinely monitor solar panels’ energy efficiency as well as any indicators or alerts from inverters and other monitoring tools.
Consistent exposure to shade, in addition to lowering solar panels’ energy collection, can damage solar panels. When shade routinely or completely covers a solar panel, the solar panel can develop hot spots, parts of the solar panel whose temperature is significantly higher. 4
Failure to resolve consistent shade issues could drastically reduce the solar panel’s lifespan or completely break it.
Do Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
Do solar panels need cleaning regularly? Yes. Knowing how to clean solar panels is essential to preserving their energy efficiency.
Accumulation of dust, grime, and other impurities can dramatically lower the amount of energy they capture.
And some types of grime can permanently damage solar panels.
How Much Does It Cost To Clean Solar Panels?
Cleaning residential solar panels at ground level can frequently be completed with household items and over-the-counter cleaning tools. The cost for these do-it-yourself cleanings is comparable to the cost of a bag of groceries.
Professionals typically charge between 15 and 25 per panel. In addition, they may charge between 150 and 300 for panel inspections.
Do I Need To Turn off Solar Panels To Clean Them?
Solar panels must be deactivated prior to any cleaning attempts, even if no liquids are being used.
Solar panels that are actively collecting energy pose electrical hazards for those who would attempt to clean them.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels’ operational lifetime varies due to a variety of factors, including the type, the manufacturer, and the environment.
However, some types of solar panels, properly maintained, can operate for up to 30 years before they need to be replaced.
Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days?
Solar panels can capture indirect sunlight.So, when asking, do solar panels work on cloudy days, the answer is yes, but limited.
Although the energy generated from indirect sunlight is lower, solar panels can still function and generate electricity on cloudy and overcast days.
As an unintended benefit, cloudy days can make solar panel cleaning easier. Overcast days with lower temperatures give you additional flexibility when scheduling cleanings, as the cloudy weather often leads to lower temperatures.
Also, rainfall acts as a natural dust remover, washing away loose particles that accumulate on the solar panel.
When Is the Best Time of Day To Perform a Solar Panel Wash?
A general rule of thumb is to clean solar panels at the coolest parts of the day. Like watering plants, cleaning solar panels in the morning prior to peak heat is optimal, though an early-evening cleaning will suffice.
Cleaning solar panels can sound like a daunting task at first.
The process is very similar to cleaning Windows and glass doors. Applying soft, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush once a month is often as complicated as cleaning solar panels can be.
And the benefits of these easy and cheap actions can be dramatic. Consistent and careful solar panel cleaning can maximize the solar panel’s lifespan and energy capture.
And a few minutes of washing solar panels can prevent costly and time-consuming technical issues that would otherwise require costly repairs or replacements.
However, it’s imperative to ensure that solar energy is applied in an environmentally friendly way and treated as part of a multi-faceted solution instead of a cure-all. Failure to properly clean and maintain solar panels can negate their benefits or even be detrimental in terms of energy consumption and environmental impact.
Proper installation and usage of solar panels can be an effective way to reduce carbon emissions, but solar panels’ benefits – both to the person who is cleaning them and to the environment – can be enhanced when you know how to clean solar panels correctly.
Carbon Footprint: Solar Panel Manufacturing In 1 Simple Explanation
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need? Calculator Shows Correct Sizing (Free)
How To Test Solar Panels’ Power Output (Both With and Without a Multimeter)
Solar Farm Income Per Acre Calculator: See Profit Margin, Costs, Money Made
References
1 Eisenson, M. (2022, October 26). Solar Panels Reduce CO2 Emissions Per Acre Than Trees — and Much Than Corn Ethanol. Columbia Climate School. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from
2 Chandler, D. L. (2022, March 11). How to clean solar panels without water. MIT News. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from
3 Wikipedia. (2023, March 9). Solar cell. Wikipedia. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from
4 Tinker, L. (2016, September 16). Getting the Most out of Solar Panels. Energy Gov. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from
Solar Panel Cleaning
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. If dirt, leaves, animal droppings or debris lands on its surface, its efficiency will be affected.
Cleaning is an integral part of any maintenance process. especially for machines and devices that are exposed to external factors such as weather, changing temperature, dust, leaves. and pollution.
Solar panels are a great example where regular and proper cleaning is required to ensure their maximum efficiency and long term use.
Geographical location and surrounding elements are the two biggest factors that pollute and affect the system.
While heavy rain may help clear your solar panels from debris and other pollutants, it still cannot replace the proper way of cleaning your solar system.
Why Clean Your Solar Panels?
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. If dirt, leaves, animal droppings or debris lands on its surface, its efficiency will be affected. When dust, sand or any small particle accumulates and covers the surface of a solar panel, the solar panel will have a hard time absorbing the maximum amount of sunlight it can harvest, which will lead to reduced energy production. This is why it is crucial to find a way to keep the panels free or at least minimize exposure from any of these sediments/outside factors.
In addition, if there are trees or anything that may cover some portion of a solar panel, expect to see a drop or a lower than the average output from the panel. This is because the shaded area of the solar panel cannot receive as much sunlight as its exposed parts. The solution to this is quite straightforward. Make sure to place your panels away from trees or tall structures that may cover the panels. And if done by professional installers, this should not be a problem at all.
How Many Times Should You Clean Solar Panels?
The number of times in a year you need to clean your solar panels depends on where you live and how much dirt and debris accumulates on the panels over a period of time. In general, it is recommended to clean solar panels at least once a year. However, if you live in a place that is exposed to a lot of dust or pollution, you may have to clean your solar panels more than once a year.
Regular and proper cleaning ensures maximum efficiency of the solar panels and at the same time, it is one way of helping the device achieve its longest lifespan possible.
Nature’s Generator. one of the most trusted solar generator brands in the country, offer a couple of solar panel options such as the Power Panel and the Powerhouse Power Addition.
These solar panels are designed to work on Nature’s Generator line of solar powered generators. They are easy to clean and can be DIY but at the same time, if you need professional help, they will be more than happy to assist you.
How to Clean Your Solar Panel
Below are steps that you can follow to clean your solar panels and keep it running at its maximum efficiency.
Safety is always a top priority so before anything else, make sure that you turn off the power supply of your system to avoid possible electrical shocks.
The best time to clean your solar panels are either early in the morning or late in the afternoon or early evening. Cleaning in the middle of the day is not a good idea at all since that is usually the hottest time of the day making the panels hot as well and water may evaporate quickly leaving behind unwanted water spots.
For DIY cleaning, you need to use the right cleaning supplies for good results and to avoid damaging your panels. A soft-bristle brush, a bucket full of soapy water, a squeegee or a wiping cloth, and a hose with a gentle spray nozzle are all that you need.
Using the soft-bristle brush, gently brush the panels to dislodge any loose dirt, dust, or debris.
Pour the soapy water over the panels and then use the brush to clean the panels thoroughly. After that, use the hose with a gentle spray nozzle to rinse the panels. Start from the top part all the way down to the bottom.
After rinsing, use the squeegee or the wiping cloth to remove any excess water from the panels and prevent water spots from forming on the surface.
Following the steps above will keep your solar panels in tiptop shape and at the same time, help you save on money as it generates more power than a dirty one.
Should You Hire a Professional Solar Panel Cleaner?
Solar panels need regular cleaning to maintain their highest possible efficiency level. While you can DIY the cleaning process, there are events wherein it is better to get the services of a professional solar panel cleaner.
Below are some situations where it is highly recommended to hire a professional solar panel cleaner rather than to DIY.
If the location of your solar panels is hard to reach, let’s say they are installed on your roof, cleaning them on your own can be challenging and may even pose some danger to you and the panels. It is better to get the services of a professional solar panel cleaner in this event because they will have the tools and equipment to easily and effectively clean your panels.
Droppings from birds and bats can be extremely hard to remove on the panels especially if they’ve been there for a long time and have dried up. Professional solar panel cleaners will know exactly what to do and what tools and cleaning solutions to use to get rid of this gunk without damaging your panels.
Hard water stains are not only an eyesore but they can also affect the efficiency of your solar panels. Armed with the right tools, right cleaning agent and years of experience, professional solar panel cleaners can get rid of this problem in a snap. They can also share tips on how to prevent hard water stains from forming in the future.
Not everyone has the time or due to hectic schedules, a lot of people forget about things which can include the last time they had their solar panels cleaned. If your solar panels have not been cleaned for a long period of time, it is highly recommended to just get the professionals do the job. Thorough cleaning is best done by those with experience as they already know all the steps they need to take to ensure that your solar panels will function to their full potential again once cleaned.
When you hire a professional solar panel cleaner, they will not only thoroughly clean your solar panels. They will also inspect them for possible damage or potential issues so they can be resolved right away instead of waiting for it to become a bigger problem in the future. Clean and fully functioning solar panels will be able to produce more energy than dirty ones, making you save on energy costs.
Regular cleaning of your solar panels is needed if you want to achieve the full potential of your solar panels and enjoy maximum energy savings. You need to clean your system at least once a year and may require more depending on where you live and your exposure to pollutants and other surrounding elements. While it is possible to clean the panels on your own, it is important to recognize that there are also situations where it is best to just hire professional cleaners to avoid possible damage to your panels.
We want to give credit where credit is due. Professional writer, Ann Matthew, contributed research and content to this blog titled: Solar Panel Cleaning Thank you, Ann, for your contributions!