Solar panels can be cleaned simply by rinsing them with water and wiping away any debris with a soft brush or sponge. Be sure to turn the system off first and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that might cause damage.
If your solar panels could use a cleaning, the Wattson Home Solutions team has just the tips you need to do so safely and effectively.
- When do solar panels need cleaning?
- Do I need to turn solar panels off before cleaning?
- How to clean solar panels
1) When do solar panels need cleaning?
Despite what some solar panel cleaning companies might suggest, solar panels generally don’t require frequent cleaning. If your panels are installed at a slight angle, rainfall will often wash dust, pollen, and other light debris away all on its own. You may notice a slight drop in performance if dirt builds up over less rainy periods. This doesn’t, however, usually justify the cost or effort of regular cleaning.
That said, your solar panels may need a good cleaning in certain circumstances. If you live in a dry region that sees little rain, or near farms, factories, busy roads, or large trees, your solar panels can accumulate a thick layer of dust, pollen, leaves, bird droppings, and grime. This coating will block sunlight from reaching the panels’ photovoltaic (PV) cells. If you notice a significant drop in performance that’s not related to weather, shade, or system faults, it might just be time to clean your panels.
2) Do I need to turn solar panels off before cleaning?
We advise turning your solar panel system off before a cleaning. Water and electricity are never a safe combo; cleaning ‘live’ panels could pose a shock risk.
Most residential systems include a clearly labeled shutoff for the inverter and, in many cases, a separate DC isolator near the panels. Switch both off before you begin. If you’re not sure how to shut your system down properly, check your user manual or contact your solar panel installer.
3) How to clean solar panels
The best way to clean solar panels is surprisingly simple: lots of clean water! A thorough rinse with a garden hose can often do the trick. You can also use a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge to dislodge stubborn grime. Avoid using any cleaning products, though, since even the gentlest formula can leave a filmy residue on your panels.
If your panels are hard to reach, household tools like a long-handled squeegee or a soft-bristle broom with a telescoping handle can make your life easier. A window cleaning pole with a water-fed brush can work too—as long as the brush is soft and you use low water pressure.
We recommend planning your cleaning session for a cool, cloudy morning. Never use pressure washers, ammonia-based cleaners, or anything abrasive or metallic that could scratch the glass surface. Also, check your panel manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines to make sure you use approved methods and tools. Using the wrong technique could void your warranty. With all this in mind, we hope you enjoy making your solar panels sparkle!
Welcome to Wattson Home Solutions. We help you save money by improving the energy efficiency of homes in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
We’re expert solar installers, and we can help you with mini-split or heat pump installation. We’re also expert home insulation and spray foam insulation installers.
- If you liked this article, you might also like ‘How many solar panels do I need?’
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