Why Clean Your Solar Panels? Ensuring Peak Performance and Longevity

How Much Does It Cost For A Professional To Clean Solar PV?

Prices start £250 for a professional clean. The cost depends on the size of your system and how easy it is to access your panels. For a professional clean, prices usually vary per panel.

Birds keep adding droppings to my system, what can I do?

If you don’t already, consider getting a bird guard added to your system to stop birds from nesting under the panels.

How Do You Know When to Clean Them?

• Take a look at your panels.

  You'll know it's time to clean your solar panels when you see dirt, bird droppings, or dust building up on them. 

• Is your energy production changing or dropping?

  It might be because your panels need a good clean. You can check your system's performance using a monitoring platform.

Can You Clean Panels Yourself?

If you clean your system yourself, you will be at risk of scratching the surface of the system!

Cleaning solar panels is often best left to professionals, especially if they're on your roof. They have the right tools and training to do it safely. 

If you have ground-mounted panels, you can use a soft brush and water fed pole. But remember, always turn off your system before cleaning to stay safe.

Tips for Cleaning:

• Don't use abrasive materials as they can scratch the panels.

• Avoid high-pressure water which can damage the panels.

• Clean them when it's not too hot outside to prevent smudging.

• Safety first! Turn off your system before cleaning and watch out for live cables.

Do Self-Cleaning Panels Exist?

Yes, some panels have coatings that help water slide off, taking dirt with it. But they might not work well in highly polluted areas or where birds are common.

How often should solar panels be cleaned?

Solar panels typically require cleaning every few months to maintain optimal performance. However, the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on factors such as local weather conditions, presence of nearby trees or birds, and the level of dust or pollution in the area.

Regular visual inspections can help determine when cleaning is necessary, and scheduling professional cleanings as part of routine maintenance can ensure that your solar panels continue to operate efficiently over time.

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your solar panels. By keeping them clean, you'll ensure they continue to generate maximum energy and provide a solid return on your investment for years to come.

Q: Can I clean my solar panels myself?

A: While it's possible to clean your solar panels yourself, it's generally recommended to hire professionals for safety and effectiveness. Using improper cleaning methods or equipment can damage the panels and void warranties.

Q: What are the risks of not cleaning solar panels?

A: Failure to clean solar panels can result in decreased energy production due to dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris blocking sunlight. This can lead to reduced efficiency and potentially lower returns on your investment in solar energy.

Q: How do I know if my solar panels need cleaning?

A: You can visually inspect your solar panels for dirt, dust, bird droppings, or other debris. Additionally, monitoring your system's performance and noting any decreases in energy production can indicate that cleaning is needed.

Q: Are there any alternatives to manual cleaning?

A: Some solar panels are equipped with self-cleaning technology, such as hydrophobic coatings, which help repel dirt and water. However, these systems may not be effective in all conditions and may still require occasional manual cleaning.