Many homeowners have invested in solar panels, hoping to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint. However, some have a tough time reaping their full benefits because they are unaware that the panels require regular cleaning. Dust, grime, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on the surface, significantly hindering their efficiency and reducing solar energy output.
To keep your solar panels performing at their peak, it needs regular maintenance and cleaning. This guide will walk you through the process of how to clean solar panels on a roof, offering detailed instructions on cleaning them safely and effectively to enjoy the full potential of your solar investment.
Why Is Cleaning Solar Panels Important?
If you think cleaning solar panels isn’t that important, you’ll miss out on several benefits that offer maximum efficiency and reduce energy bills. Here’s why you should clean your solar panels:
- Improved Efficiency. Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can block sunlight and increase energy costs. Regular cleaning maximizes sunlight exposure, leading to optimal energy production.
- Increased Energy Output. Cleaner panels can generate more electricity. By removing obstructions that prevent sunlight from reaching the solar cells, your system produces as much power as possible.
- Prolonged Lifespan. Maintaining clean solar panels can prevent damage from accumulated debris that may cause micro-scratches or other long-term issues. This care helps extend the operational life of the panels.
- Early Detection of Issues. Regular cleaning lets you inspect your panels up close. This allows for early detection of potential problems like cracks, loose wiring, or wear and tear, which can be immediately addressed before they become major issues.
- Improved Return on Investment. By ensuring your solar panel system is operating efficiently, you maximize the financial return on your investment. Increased energy output translates to more savings on energy bills.
- Aesthetic Appeal. Clean panels improve your property’s appeal. Removing dirt and grime maintains their sleek appearance and contributes to a tidy, well-maintained homestead.
- Compliance With Warranty Requirements. Many solar panel manufacturers have specific maintenance guidelines in their warranties. Regular cleaning can help you comply with these requirements, ensuring you remain covered should any issues arise.
How to Clean Solar Panels on the Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Check Warranty and Manufacturer Guidelines
Before starting the cleaning project, carefully review your solar panel’s warranty and the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Some warranties may include clauses that require adherence to certain cleaning protocols, and failing to follow them can result in the warranty being voided, leaving you without coverage.
2. Safety First
Safety should be your main concern when cleaning solar panels. If the dirty panels are installed on a high, steep, or difficult-to-reach roof, it’s advisable to hire professional cleaners with the necessary equipment and expertise to carry out the task safely. If you decide to proceed yourself, use a sturdy ladder and safety equipment like a safety harness, and wear shoes with good grip to prevent slipping.
Always disconnect the system before the solar panel maintenance and cleaning to prevent any risk of electric shock. Also, cleaning in wet or windy conditions should be avoided, as it increases the chance of accidents.
3. Choose the Right Time
Selecting the appropriate time to clean your solar panels can greatly affect the outcome. Cleaning should be done during a cool, overcast day, early morning or late evening. Cleaning panels during the heat of midday increases the risk of glass cracking from thermal shock, causes water to evaporate, and leaves streaks and spots.
4. Gather the Necessary Equipment
Use the right tools for a safe and effective cleaning process. To avoid scratching the panel surface, use a soft-bristle brush or sponge with your solar panel cleaner. A long-handled squeegee with a non-abrasive sponge attachment can be particularly useful for reaching the entire surface without climbing onto the roof.
A garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle provides sufficient pressure to rinse away dirt without the risk of damage associated with high-pressure washers. If possible, avoid using hard water, as it leaves mineral deposits that are difficult to remove.
5. Rinse the Panels With Water
Start cleaning by gently rinsing the solar panels with water to remove loose dirt and debris. This step is important to minimize scratching the surface during cleaning. Use a garden hose to apply a gentle stream of water, carefully doing so to achieve even coverage. Remove obstructions that could impede the water flow or result in uneven rinsing.
6. Clean the Surface With a Mild Soap Solution
In cases where superficial rinsing cannot remove all dirt, prepare a mild soap solution using a small amount of non-abrasive dish soap mixed with clean water. Apply this solution with a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush, gently removing all dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents that can corrode or damage the protective layer on the solar panels.
7. Rinse Thoroughly
After applying the soap solution, rinse the panels thoroughly to remove all residue. Leftover soap can form a film on the panels, reducing their efficiency and solar energy output. Use generous amounts of clean water to remove all the cleaning agents.
8. Dry the Panels
To prevent water spots and streaks, dry the panel’s surface with a soft, lint-free cloth or a squeegee. Be careful when drying to avoid scratching or applying undue pressure. Drying the panels prevents any remaining water from leaving marks that could interfere with their efficiency.
9. Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, inspect the solar panels for damage, such as cracks, chips, or loose wiring. Identifying potential issues can help prevent larger problems down the line. If you notice any damage, it is advisable to contact a professional technician to address the issue promptly.
10. Recheck System Operations
Once the panels are clean and dry, reconnect your solar panel system, while observing safety precautions. Monitor the system’s performance over the next few days to assess improvements in efficiency and energy output. If the solar panel still isn’t functioning properly after getting cleaned, you may need to contact a technician to do the inspections.
Different Cleaning Products and Materials to Use for Solar Panels
When learning how to clean solar panels on your roof, it’s important to use certain products and materials that are effective yet gentle on the panels to prevent damage. Here are some recommended cleaning products and materials to clean your solar panels while leaving them untouched:
- Soft-Bristled Brush. A soft-bristled brush helps remove dirt and grime without scratching the panel’s surface. The bristles are gentle yet firm enough to dislodge tougher debris without causing harm.
- Microfiber Cloth or Sponge. Microfiber cloths and sponges are ideal for wiping down the panels as they are non-abrasive and highly absorbent, reducing the chances of scratching the surface and leaving a streak-free finish.
- Squeegee With Non-Abrasive Pad. A squeegee with a soft, non-abrasive pad is effective for drying panels without leaving streaks. It helps remove any leftover water or soap residue after rinsing.
- Distilled or Deionized Water. Using distilled or deionized water prevents mineral deposits from forming on the panels, which happens if you use hard tap water. These purified forms of water help achieve a spotless, residue-free surface.
- Mild Dish Soap. A mild dish soap, like Dawn, can be mixed with water to create a gentle cleaning solution that removes tough dirt and grime without harming the panels’ surface or the protective coatings.
- Garden Hose With Adjustable Nozzle. Unlike high-pressure washers, a garden hose with an adjustable nozzle allows you to control the water pressure. This ensures you can safely rinse the panels without risk of damage.
- Extension Pole. You can attach an extension pole to brushes or squeegees, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach areas safely from the ground.
- Isopropyl Alcohol. For particularly sticky substances like bird poop or tree sap, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol can be used. Apply it with a soft cloth and gently rub the area. This should be done sparingly and thoroughly rinsed off afterward.
Can I Use Dawn Dish Soap to Clean My Solar Panels?
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap to clean your solar panels. It is a mild and non-abrasive detergent suitable for removing dirt and grime without damaging the panel’s delicate surfaces or protective coatings. When using Dawn or any mild dish soap, mix a small amount with clean water to form a gentle cleaning solution.
Apply it with a soft brush or sponge to avoid scratches. After cleaning, rinse the panels thoroughly with water to remove any soapy water, as it can cause streaking or a film that reduces the panels’ efficiency. Always opt for gentle cleaning methods and avoid harsh chemicals to maintain the panels’ performance and longevity.
When Should You Clean Solar Panels?
Early Morning
Cleaning solar panels in the early morning is ideal because the panels are cool from the overnight temperatures, reducing the risk of thermal shock from sudden temperature changes. Morning dew can also help soften dirt and grime, making it easier to clean.
Late Afternoon or Early Evening
Similar to the early morning, cleaning your panels in the late afternoon or early evening takes advantage of cooler temperatures after the day’s heat has dissipated. This timing also avoids the midday sun, which can cause water to evaporate quickly, leaving streaks.
Overcast Days
Cloudy or overcast days provide an excellent opportunity to keep your panels clean because they typically remain cool throughout the day. The absence of direct sunlight minimizes rapid evaporation of the cleaning solution, allowing for a more thorough and even clean.
After a Rainfall
Cleaning immediately after a rainfall can be beneficial as rain can naturally wash away dirt and debris, reducing the time and effort needed for manual cleaning. However, rain alone cannot fully clean the panels and may leave a residue, so manual cleaning may still be required.
Seasonal Cleaning
It’s often beneficial to schedule cleaning according to seasonal changes. For example, cleaning in the spring can remove accumulated winter debris, while a post-summer cleaning helps eliminate dust and pollen build-up. This adjustment helps maintain panel efficiency year-round.
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?
The frequency with which you should clean your solar panels depends on several factors, including your local environment, weather conditions, and the level of dust and debris accumulation. Generally, frequent cleaning is advisable at least once or twice a year to maintain optimal performance.
Regular cleaning ensures that dirt and grime do not build up to the point where they significantly impede the panels’ efficiency. Observing the panels for visible signs of dirt or experiencing reduced energy output indicates that cleaning might be required. Ultimately, regular maintenance and monitoring of performance can give you the appropriate cleaning schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Solar Panels
Do solar panels work when they’re dirty?
Solar panels still work when dirty, but their energy production can be significantly reduced. Accumulated dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can block sunlight from reaching the solar cells, preventing them from operating at full capacity. Regular cleaning helps maintain their optimal performance.
Do solar panels easily get scratched when being cleaned?
Solar panels have a durable glass surface but can be scratched if the wrong cleaning tools or methods are used. Abrasive brushes, rough sponges, or harsh cleaning materials can cause scratches. To avoid damaging the panels, it’s best to use soft, non-abrasive cleaning tools like a microfiber cloth, soft sponge, or gentle brush.
Is it better to contact a solar panel cleaning company?
Hiring professional solar panel cleaning services can be advantageous, especially if your panels are difficult to access or if you prefer to ensure a thorough job is done safely. Professionals have the right equipment and expertise to clean panels effectively without risking damage. This option is ideal for those who are uncomfortable with heights or unsure about the correct cleaning methods.
What is waterless vibration cleaning?
This is an emerging solar cleaning technique for maintaining solar panels without water, using mechanical vibrations to shake off dust and debris. This method is particularly useful in arid regions where water is scarce and prevents mineral deposits from hard water use. As a sustainable and efficient alternative, it supports optimal solar panel performance in environments with water restrictions.
Need to Talk With Roofing Experts in Arizona, Phoenix? Choose Stonecreek Roofing!
Planning to install solar panels? Make sure you have a sturdy roofing system to secure them on. If your roofing system has issues, you can leave it to Stonecreek Roofing, a roofing company that provides quality roofing solutions around Phoenix, Arizona. We also have experience handling different roofing materials, helping us provide exceptional services to each client we work with. Call us to schedule your next consultation and discuss how we can start your roofing project and finally install your new solar panels!