How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Efficiently

Solar panels offer a fantastic way to save money on electricity costs—but if you want to continue to get the most value from your investment, you’ll need to keep them in the best working condition.

The good news is that most solar panels don’t require a lot of difficult maintenance. All they need is occasional cleaning—every one-to-two years—to keep them free from dirt and allow them to operate as efficiently as possible.

If you’re keen to learn how to clean solar panels safely and efficiently, you’ll find everything you need to know in this guide.

Why Should You Clean Solar Panels?

Dirty solar panels have a reduced energy output and efficiency, so cleaning them keeps them working properly and can even extend their life.

Dust, debris, and dirt from the environment block sunlight, meaning your solar panels have to work harder to perform at their best. The less access to sunlight your solar panels have, the less electricity they can produce, so cleaning helps you to get plenty of value from your system.

When Is the Right Time to Clean Solar Panels?

You already know the cleaning frequency for solar panels, but how about when you should clean them?

Experts from Solar Power Now recommend that you clean your solar panels early in the morning or late in the evening. Try to avoid midday cleaning in direct sunlight, as this will heat the surface and cause water to evaporate quickly, leaving streaks. If you can, wait to clean the panels on a cloudy day for the best results.

What Tools Should You Use?

The best tools for cleaning solar panels should help you to do the job properly but with no risk of damage.

That means you shouldn’t use abrasive materials that can scratch the panels. Ideally, go for a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge, and start by rinsing off loose dirt with a garden hose before you scrub.

If you’re dealing with tougher, caked-on dirt, you can use a mix of mild soap and water to clean the panels—but don’t use strong chemicals, as these can damage the material.

How to Stay Safe Cleaning Solar Panels

If you’re cleaning solar panels on a roof, make sure to take the proper safety precautions to avoid falling or getting injured.

Use a stable ladder to get up onto the roof, and wear a pair of non-slip shoes that will help you climb safely. If you don’t feel comfortable working at heights, this isn’t the job for you. Consider hiring a professional or asking a family member to help you instead.

Cleaning Steps

Here are the basic cleaning steps for solar panels:

Use a garden hose to rinse the panels, removing loose dirt and debris.
Scrub the panels gently with a soft brush or sponge with soapy water to remove grime.
Wash off any soap residue with clean water.
Dry the panels with a squeegee to prevent streaks.

Takeaway

Regularly cleaning your solar panels will keep them in their prime, so they can perform optimally around the clock. Following the information in this guide should help you maximize your solar energy production and protect your investment.

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