If you’re going to have solar panels on your roof, then you’ll need to make sure they are clean and in good condition. Cleaning solar panels isn’t exactly the most fun thing to do, but it’s crucial to keeping them working well and saving as much energy as possible. This Solar Panel 101 guide will walk you through when to clean your residential solar panels and how to get them clean.
Every solar panel owner has their own set of rules on how often they should clean their panels. Many of these owners, who have installed a photovoltaic system at home, agree that cleaning is not needed too often as long as you follow a few simple guidelines.
Most people will agree that cleaning solar panels every 6-12 months is ideal. By cleaning them at least once every year, you are making sure that they are not covered in dust and debris while also boosting their overall performance, especially if you live in a climate where there is a lot of moisture, humidity, or winter snow and hail storms are common. If you want your PV system to last longer and produce more energy, then it’s highly advised that you make a point of cleaning them at least once per year.
When you do decide that it’s time to clean your residential solar panels, there are a few different ways you can go about doing so. First, you can use a soft cloth and soapy water to wipe down your panels with. Be sure not to use any type of abrasive materials as they could scratch or otherwise damage your PV system.
For those that aren't familiar or don't have time to clean solar panels, it's worth it to have a professional do it. According to Home Advisor, homeowners spend an average of $150 to have their solar panels cleaned.
Before you can start cleaning your solar panels, you need to understand what exactly is causing them not to function at their maximum capacity. Why are they not producing as much power as they could be? There are several things that could be contributing—including dust build-up on your panels. That’s why it’s important to clean them occasionally in order to ensure they perform at their highest levels.
If you’re unsure whether or not your solar panels need cleaning, look out for these signs: The amount of sunlight your panels are able to convert into energy has decreased. This could be a result of dust buildup on your panels. Due to their makeup, solar panels work best when they’re in direct sunlight without obstruction. If they can’t receive as much sunlight as possible due to dirt and debris covering them, then they won’t produce as much power.
Another sign that your solar panels are not receiving as much sunlight as they should be is a decreased level of power in your home. If you notice that you’re having trouble charging your devices and running appliances, it might be time to clean your panels! They’re not working at maximum capacity, which means you may be overpaying for electricity from a utility company.
If you have solar panels on your roof, they will collect dust, pollen, algae and other debris. This should be cleaned off regularly to ensure that they function at full potential. In general, cleaning them every 6-12 months is a good idea. If you see dust build up on your panels as a result of weather changes, it’s a good idea to clean them sooner if possible.
In order to clean your solar panels you'll remove or wipe off all of the panels' debrief buildup. If they're not very dirty, lightly brush off any debris that's on them. The brushes for cleaning solar panels can be found at most hardware stores and online.
If you need to remove heavy buildup, then a more powerful cleaning solution might be required. Be sure to follow all of your manufacturer's instructions, as different panels may require different solutions. After scrubbing them clean, be sure to rinse off any cleaning solution that’s left on them. Then dry thoroughly with either a soft cloth or paper towels if necessary.
do i need to turn off solar panels to clean
The short answer is yes. The longer answer involves a lot of science, but basically cleaning your solar panels extends their life and improves exposure. Think of it like keeping them waxed on a car or polishing your shoes, if you can remember what that’s like. It keeps things shiny and healthy-looking for much longer than if you don’t clean them (which is not very often).
Allowing particles on your panels is like allowing wear and tear that reduces efficiency over time and needs more maintenance. Over a long period of time, you might need to replace your solar panels entirely instead of only re-cleaning them.
By removing dirt and debris from your solar panels it allows for more direct exposure to sunlight. Dirt blocks light coming through, meaning if you have a whole bunch of particles on your panel (like branches, leaves or algae) you won’t be able to use all of that energy. Instead, cleaning those up will allow you to use as much energy as possible. This can mean a difference between saving hundreds or thousands of dollars each year over several years.
Routinely cleaning your solar panels is a great way to extend their lifespan and optimize their performance. This means they’ll produce more electricity, thereby saving you money over time. Many homeowners don’t realize just how easy it is to clean these powerful systems.
Beyond regular cleanings it's important to provide other routine maintenance on your solar panels. Depending on how often you use them and where they are, more attention may be required. Both in terms of cleaning and safety, some tasks will be needed far more frequently than others.
Everyone should take time each year to inspect their solar panels for damage and wear. Get up close and inspect each panel individually, including looking for any rust or scrapes. Birds often leave droppings near them which can lead to issues, so keep an eye out for any telltale signs that you’ll need to clean off.
You should also inspect your mounting system and make sure it’s in good condition. If you spot any issues or worn parts, call a specialist to come by and make repairs as soon as possible. Professionals will be able to give you a more thorough inspection and fix anything that may need it—before it becomes an issue.
If you'd rather professional solar installers clean your panels, give our team at Alliance Solar a call!
