If you haven’t installed solar panels yet, maybe you’re thinking, they must be a hassle to keep clean. We’ve even heard new (and even old) homeowners say “Wait, what? You need to clean them?” (Spoiler alert: Yes, it’s necessary.) To make it perfectly clear, solar panel cleaning is not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, here’s why you don’t need to stress:
- There’s no need to call a professional (you can do it yourself)
- It’s quick and easy (think 20 minutes, like having a quick lunch break).
- You probably already have most of the tools you need lying around at home (saving you a trip to the nearest depot).
Do I Need to Clean My Solar Panels
Yes, you need to clean your solar panels to clear away dust, debris, dirt, grime, bird poop, pollen, and other residues that can block sunlight and prevent your panels from efficiently converting solar energy into electricity…
Because generally, less sunlight = less power generated.
Alex Beale, renowned DIY solar enthusiast and owner of FootPrint Hero, even ran his own experiment on his home panels, finding an average 8.9% increase in power output after cleaning them.
That said, solar panel cleaning is definitely worth it. You can avoid energy losses and save money, especially if electricity is pricier in your area.
How to Clean Solar Panels
Cleaning your solar panels is simple and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. A light rinse may only take about 20 minutes, but if you’ve got a lot of dust or grime, it could take closer to an hour. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare your tools and materials:
- Garden hose
- Tap Water supply
- Soft bristle brush
- Squeegee
- Ladder (for roof solar panels)
- Shut off your solar panel system to ensure safety.
- Rinse off loose dust and dirt with your garden hose. Let the water flow gently – DO NOT use high pressure, as this may damage your panels.
- Scrub the remaining grime with the soft bristle brush. Rub gently against the glass to avoid scratching the surface.
- Rinse again to fully wash away any leftover dirt.
- Use a squeegee to clear any remaining water and avoid water spots. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it’s a good way to keep the glass clean and perfect.
Tips for Cleaning Solar Panels: Do’s and Don’ts
Before you jump straight into cleaning your solar panels, be aware of these do’s and don’ts. They’ll help you protect your solar panels and extend their lifespan.
DO:
- Make sure your garden hose comfortably reaches your panels.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on cleaning your solar panel system (This can help you maintain your warranty).
- Check that your cleaning materials are in good condition and free from any stuck debris or loose parts that might scratch the panel surface.
DO NOT:
- Do not use chemical solutions, coatings, detergents, or soaps. Solar panels come with specialized coatings and glass, and these can be damaged by these substances, reducing your panels’ efficiency.
(Just to share, we’ve found that the panels in the worst condition often belong to owners who’ve used these very products we’ve warned you about.)
- Do not clean your panels when it’s scorching hot outside. You don’t want to spray cold water on those hot panels as this can cause thermal shock and might crack the glass. Aim to clean in the morning when it’s cooler.
- Do not expose yourself to the blazing sun in high temperatures – it’s also a serious health risk.
Safety Considerations for DIY Solar Panel Cleaning
We considered putting safety tips in the last section’s DOs, but decided it deserved its own dedicated section – because, even though cleaning solar panels seems simple, it does come with some risks.
After all, you’re working with an electrical setup. And if you are cleaning solar panels on roof, there’s the added concern of heights. Here are some key precautions for a safe cleaning experience:
- Before you start, ALWAYS turn off your solar panel system. Even though solar panels aren’t as high-voltage as other electrical setups, they still carry some current.
- Set up your ladder on stable, level ground. If possible, use a ladder stabilizer to keep it steady and avoid any wobbling.
- When climbing, follow the rule we use for rooftop installations: maintain three points of contact – ideally two hands and one foot – to help you stay balanced.
- If you can, get an assistant to help you. They can hold the ladder steady, hand you tools, or spot you for safety.
- Avoid cleaning during high winds, rain, or intense heat.
- Set aside a dedicated space for your tools and supplies, away from the ladder and other walkways, to prevent tripping tripping or knocking anything over.
Look. We completely agree with UC San Diego engineers who in a study concluded that hiring someone to clean your solar panels isn’t usually worth it…
BUT – if heights make you uneasy or you simply prefer a hands-off approach, don’t hesitate to call a professional. It’s also worth checking if your installer offers regular maintenance as part of the package – and if so, take advantage of that!
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?
You should clean your solar panels every now and then – especially if you live in areas with high soiling loss risks. These are regions where there’s a lot of particulate matter like dust and sand, and not much rain to wash it away.
For example, based on a SolarAnywhere study, parts of the US West Coast are prone to soiling loss.
Now, if you’re one who prefers to take advice with a grain of salt and do a little digging yourself, you’ll probably come across all sorts of suggestions for cleaning frequency…
Some will say twice a year, others recommend every six months, and some people never clean their panels at all! So, what’s the real answer?
The truth is, all of these recommendations have a valid basis. Let’s peel the layers and look into these factors:
- Geographic Location: In areas with regular rain, some people just “leave it to Mother Nature”. They get a natural rinse, and they don’t have to do the cleaning themselves.
- Landscaping: If your panels are installed far from trees, pollen, or heavy bird activity, you may get away with minimal cleaning.
- Roof Pitch: Some homeowners swear by “letting nature handle it” because of the angle of their roof (often without realizing it). Steep roofs allow rain to naturally wash panels more effectively, meaning a less frequent cleaning schedule could work fine.
So, while all these answers are valid, your own needs depend on what’s around your panels.
FAQs on Solar Panel Cleaning
What is the best tool to clean solar panels with?
The best tools to clean solar panels with are garden hose, tap water, and soft bristle brush. Even rinsing with water does the job of keeping your panel’s photovoltaic (PV) production at its peak. So, no fancy products or chemicals are needed as these can damage your panels.
How to clean solar panels from snow?
To clean snow off solar panels, allow the snow to melt and slide off naturally, guided by the panels tilt If the snow persists, use a solar panel snow rake to safely remove it – not a standard broom or shovel as these can scratch the panels.
Is there a way to clean roof-mounted solar panels automatically?
Yes, there are automatic cleaning systems built into solar panels that use solar energy to clean them. These systems gently spray water or create a stream over the panels, all controlled from inside your home. However, this option may not be budget-friendly for residential applications.
Does cleaning my solar panels void my warranty?
Cleaning your solar panels won’t void your warranty provided you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. This is why we recommend avoiding putting specialized coating or other harsh chemicals and abrasive tools as these may accidentally damage the panels.