How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Effectively

Solar panels are a fantastic way to reduce energy bills and minimise your carbon footprint, but to ensure they operate at maximum efficiency, keeping them clean is essential. Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate over time, cutting down the amount of sunlight that reaches the panels and reducing their energy output. If you’ve been wondering, how to clean solar panels safely, then this guide is here to help.

While Simply Spotless doesn’t offer solar panel cleaning as part of our services, we believe in empowering homeowners with knowledge that adds value and helps them get the most out of their investment. 

Let’s walk through the importance of how to clean solar panels, the safest and most effective way to do it, and some key mistakes to avoid. 

Why Cleaning Solar Panels Matters

Your solar panels are exposed to the elements 24/7. The accumulation of dust and other debris can block sunlight and significantly reduce their efficiency. 

Here are a few reasons why cleaning your panels is crucial:

• Maximised Energy Output: A dirty solar panel produces less power because it can absorb less sunlight. According to studies, a dirty panel might lose up to 20–25% of its efficiency.
• Prolonged Lifespan: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your panels, protecting your investment over time.
• Financial Savings: Maintaining energy output means you continue to save on electricity bills without loss of efficiency. 

Cleaning doesn’t have to be frequent, most panels only need it once or twice a year but it ensures your solar panels are operating as close to maximum efficiency as possible.

How to Clean Solar Panels Safely

Always switch off your solar panels before cleaning. Just like any other electrical device, handling panels while they’re active can be hazardous to you and damage your system. Many setups have a designated shut-off switch for maintenance.

3. Check Your Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Different solar panels might have specific cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. Before you begin, check the user manual for any precautions or recommendations on how to clean solar panels. 

4. Gather the Right Tools

You don’t need expensive equipment to clean solar panels effectively. You will need:

• A bucket of clean water.
• A soft sponge or a microfiber cloth (avoid abrasive cleaning pads that may scratch the surface).
• A squeegee or a non-abrasive brush with a long handle (if your panels are mounted higher up). 
• Mild, non-abrasive soap (if necessary—plain water often does the job). 

Avoid using pressure washers! The high pressure can crack the glass or damage the sensitive components of your panels.

5. Rinse and Clean Gently

Start by rinsing your panels with a hose to remove loose debris like dust or dirt. Use lukewarm water if available but avoid hot water, as a sudden temperature change on the solar panel can cause cracking. 

Using your sponge or soft brush, gently wipe the surface of each panel to remove grime or stains. Work in sections and avoid applying too much pressure. 

If needed, add a few drops of mild soap to your water, but ensure you rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue, which can leave streaks and attract more dirt.

6. Do a Final Rinse and Dry

Once you’ve removed all the dirt, rinse the panels again before they dry to prevent water spots from forming. Use a squeegee to gently remove excess water and allow the panels to air dry. If your panels are hard to reach, consider a long-handled squeegee.

Pro Tip:– A shower glass shield, such as EnduroShield, can greatly reduce the effort needed to maintain clean solar panels, cutting down on the frequency of cleaning. Rigorous testing has demonstrated that treated panels stay cleaner for longer compared to untreated ones, without compromising light transmission to the solar cells. The treatment’s easy-clean properties also protect the glass from etching, ensuring long-lasting efficiency and durability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Solar Panels

While cleaning solar panels is fairly straightforward, homeowners often make some mistakes that can do more harm than good. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using Abrasive Materials: Items like steel wool or rough scrubbing pads can scratch and damage your panels.
• Cleaning in Direct Sunlight: The heat can make cleaning difficult and even crack your panels if cold water contacts a warm surface.
• Ignoring Filters or Drainage Systems: Make sure the surrounding areas, such as filters or gutters, are also clean to optimise overall system health.

Alternative Options for Cleaning

If a DIY approach isn’t feasible for you due to safety concerns or convenience, don’t hesitate to hire professional cleaning services that specialise in solar panel maintenance. Professionals have the tools and expertise to clean panels without risking damage. 

Additionally, rain can act as a natural cleaner, washing away light debris. However, you’ll still need to clean stubborn grime like bird droppings or sticky residues manually.

Keep Your Solar Panels Shining Bright

Regular cleaning is an essential part of owning solar panels. By following our how to clean solar panel steps, you can keep your panels in great condition and ensure they produce as much energy as possible for years to come. 

Remember, while Simply Spotless doesn’t offer solar panel cleaning services, our mission is to help you maintain a cleaner, more efficient home. Feel free to check out our other cleaning tips and resources for maintaining a spotless home!