How to clean solar panels - the definitive guide

As a proud solar panel owner, it's easy to assume that after installation, your system will run smoothly on its own. While this holds some truth—solar panels generate energy autonomously without constant intervention—there may come a time when you'll need to know how to clean them. Just like maintaining your car or cleaning your home windows, solar panels require periodic upkeep to ensure optimal performance.

Weather conditions and natural elements such as wind and rain can lead to debris accumulation on your panels. Leaves, dirt, and other particles can interfere with the efficiency of your solar system. Even though the UK's frequent rainfall might seem like nature's way of keeping your panels clean, this isn't always enough. Although most solar panels are designed to be self-cleaning to some extent, occasional manual cleaning can significantly boost their output.

If your panels appear less than spotless, factors such as the angle of your panels or local air pollution levels might be contributing. Properly maintained solar panels can maximize energy generation and reduce electricity costs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how, when, and whether you can clean your solar panels yourself or if you should call in professional help.

What Tools Do You Need to Clean Solar Panels?

 

In most cases, you already have everything you need at home to clean your solar panels. Think of it as car washing but gentler. Soft brushes are ideal to avoid scratching the surface of your panels. For heavily soiled areas, consider using a squeegee with a soft sponge side instead of an abrasive sponge, which could harm your panels. A high-pressure water hose might damage your system, so opt for a standard garden hose or even a watering can. Alternatively, a bucket of warm water paired with a non-abrasive sponge works just fine.

While we’ve learned a lot about hygiene during the pandemic, it’s best to avoid using soap or detergent when cleaning your panels. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can leave a residue, reducing the efficiency of your solar system. Warm water and a soft brush should suffice for typical dirt and grime buildup.

Safety First

 

Before starting the cleaning process, assess how accessible your panels are. Can you reach them from the ground? If not, you’ll need a sturdy ladder. If your panels are in a hard-to-reach location or require extensive cleaning, it might be safer to call in professionals. Most of the time, however, you can handle the task independently.

To avoid potential damage, turn off your solar system temporarily before cleaning. Wetting live solar panels can lead to electrical issues or malfunctions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Solar Panels

 

Decide if your panels need cleaning and whether you can access them safely from the ground or require climbing tools. Then follow these steps:

The best time to clean your panels is early in the morning on an overcast day or later in the evening. Avoid cleaning during peak sunlight hours because the water will evaporate quickly, leaving streaks and potentially damaging your system’s efficiency.

Morning cleaning is preferable since the panels will be cooler, and the morning dew helps loosen dirt naturally. Begin by brushing off loose debris and dust with a soft brush before spraying water gently over the surface. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as a water-fed pole and soft brush or squeegee are recommended for the best results.

If you only have hard water available, make sure to squeegee off any leftover residue afterward to prevent unsightly stains as the water dries.

Bird Droppings: A Common Solar Panel Worry

 

Regular maintenance is straightforward, but many homeowners remain unsure about removing bird droppings from their solar panels. Bird excrement is notorious for being stubborn and can severely impact your system’s performance. Dust and dirt are usually washed away by rain, but droppings tend to stick around and block sunlight absorption. This issue becomes especially prevalent in wooded areas or places frequented by birds.

If birds are a recurring nuisance, consider investing in long-term solutions like bird-proofing your panels. Our pigeon-proofing guide provides comprehensive advice on deterring pests from your solar array.

Is It Worth the Effort to Clean Solar Panels?

 

Absolutely! With the right tools and knowledge, maintaining your solar panels is no more complicated than cleaning your windows. Regular cleaning not only improves efficiency but also increases energy production. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire professionals, the investment pays off in the long run.

Our team of experts is here to answer any questions you might have about optimizing your solar panel system for maximum cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

Ready to embark on your solar journey? Contact us today to learn more.