How To Clean Solar Panels: A Step-by-Step Guide
Solar panels work tirelessly, gathering sunlight and turning it into power for your home. However, environmental factors such as dust, grime, bird droppings, and pollution can mess with the surface of your panels and lower their efficiency. This reduction in performance, if left unaddressed, can impact your system's expected energy output and affect your overall return on investment.
Learning how to clean solar panels is an essential step for optimising energy generation. Understanding the correct procedures and timing will help prevent physical damage during cleaning and maintain the integrity of your solar power system. In this guide, you will learn how to clean your solar panels, so they continue to work efficiently while keeping safety in mind.
When to Clean Solar Panels?
Knowing when to clean your panels is as important as learning how to clean solar panels. Determining the right time to clean solar panels requires attention to environmental conditions and system performance rather than a rigid schedule. Panels should be cleaned when surface contamination visibly accumulates, affecting light transmission and system output.
Particularly, cleaning should be done after extended dry periods when dust can settle without natural rainfall to remove it. Cleaning is also recommended after events such as heavy bird activity or storms that leave debris or dirt on the panels. Seasonal conditions in the UK also influence optimal cleaning times.
During spring, increased pollen levels and tree sap can form layers on the panels. In summer, dust and bird droppings can accumulate more rapidly. Autumn presents a risk of fallen leaves and debris. In winter, panels may require cleaning when snow or ice blocks light, but safety should be kept in mind when cleaning during milder periods to avoid ice-related risks.
How to Clean Solar Panels: Step-by-Step Instructions
Cleaning your panels can help you avoid energy loss and keep them working for years. The process can be straightforward if approached with caution and the right tools. Before you begin, check your manufacturer’s manual to avoid voiding warranties and always prioritise your safety. Here’s how to clean solar panels in the UK properly:
1. Assess Weather Conditions
Choose a cool day or early morning for cleaning to avoid rapid evaporation, which can leave mineral deposits and streaks on the panel surface. Avoid cleaning during strong winds or rainy weather to maintain safety and cleaning effectiveness. Timing is a must when learning how to clean solar panels.
2. Shut Down the System
Before starting the cleaning process, shut down your solar PV system according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent electrical hazards. This is an essential step in learning how to clean solar panels on the roof to ensure your safety. Never clean panels while the system is alive.
3. Use a Soft Brush or Cloth
Use a soft brush or non-abrasive cloth when cleaning PV panels to gently remove loose debris, leaves, or dust from the surface before wet cleaning. This step reduces the risk of scratching the glass during subsequent washing. You can also use a hose with a gentle stream of water to loosen dirt.
4. Prepare Lukewarm Water with Mild Soap
Cold water on hot panels may cause thermal shock, leading to cracks. Use lukewarm water during early morning or late evening for effective cleaning. Add a small amount of mild or non-abrasive soap if there are persistent dirt patches or residues.
5. Wipe the Panels Gently
Wipe gently in circular motions to lift dirt without pressing too hard. Rinse the panels with clean water to remove any loosened debris. Ensure no soap residues are left, as they can cause streaks and reduce efficiency.
6. Rinse with Clean Water
Rinse the panels thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap and dirt. A hose with gentle water flow or a spray bottle can be used, ensuring that water does not enter junction boxes or electrical connectors. Complete rinsing prevents streaks and residue build-up.
After rinsing, allow the panels to air dry naturally. Natural drying prevents lint or fibres from sticking to the panels. Once dry, reconnect your system and monitor performance for any noticeable improvements.
7. Clean Portable Panels with Care
For portable panels like the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel, place the panel on a stable surface before cleaning to prevent scratches or accidental drops. EcoFlow panels are designed with an IP68 waterproof rating, thus you can clean them with water safely.
Gently shake off loose dirt before wiping with a damp cloth. A soft microfibre cloth with lukewarm water is often sufficient to keep them clean. You can also use a spray bottle with clean water and a mild soap solution, if there are only visible residues or dirt.
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels in the UK?
In learning how to clean a solar panel, the frequency of cleaning depends on environmental factors, weather conditions, and the performance of your system, rather than a fixed schedule. For most areas in the UK, it is recommended to clean solar panels once or twice a year to maintain consistent energy output.
In areas near trees, roads, or where there is heavy bird activity, it may be necessary to clean your solar panels every six months or twice a year. For professional cleaning, you can schedule with professionals to clean solar panels on the roof every one or two years. For professional inspection and a full system check, you can schedule it every three or five years.
Monitoring your solar system’s output helps you know when cleaning is needed, especially if you notice a drop in energy production. For other types of solar panels, such as EcoFlow portable solar panels, they may only require cleaning after outdoor use in dusty or muddy environments. Most of the time, they require occasional or no cleaning at all since they’re folded or stored after use.
Safety Precautions for Solar Panel Cleaning
Learning how to clean solar panels involves risks that can affect your safety and the integrity of your system if not properly managed. It is important to understand these risks and apply correct measures to prevent damage or injury. Here are safety precautions for solar panel cleaning:
1. Prevent Electrical Hazards
Solar panels generate electricity when exposed to light, which means live voltage may be present even during cleaning. Always shut down the system according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to clean solar panels safely. If you have a portable solar panel, you need to disconnect the panel from a portable power station or solar battery storage before wiping.
2. Manage Fall Risks on Roof Installations
Falls from height are a primary hazard when cleaning rooftop solar panels. Use non-slip footwear and, where possible, safety harnesses or fall-arrest systems when working on sloped or elevated areas. Never overreach or lean dangerously while cleaning panels. If panels are difficult to access, consider using extension tools or seeking professional cleaning instead of risking a fall.
3. Avoid Surface Damage
Applying excessive pressure, using abrasive materials, or stepping on panels can cause micro-cracks or surface scratches. Always use soft cleaning tools and avoid placing weight on panels while cleaning. Physical damage reduces light transmission, lowering energy output. Handle all cleaning steps gently to clean solar panels without compromising their structure.
4. Check Weather Conditions
Cleaning during unsuitable weather can increase safety risks and reduce cleaning effectiveness. Avoid cleaning during wet, frosty, or windy conditions, which may cause slipping hazards on rooftops or ladders. Choose cool days to minimise thermal stress on glass surfaces and avoid water evaporation that can leave streaks. Good weather timing supports both safety and cleaning quality.
5. Handle Chemicals Safely
Harsh chemicals can damage the protective coatings on panels and may pose skin or eye hazards during cleaning. Only use mild soap with lukewarm water when required to clean solar panels. Wear gloves if using any cleaning agents to avoid skin irritation. Handling chemicals safely protects you and preserves your solar panels' surface integrity.
6. Handle Portable Panels Safely
Portable solar panels require fewer safety precautions, but proper handling is still necessary. For example, the EcoFlow NextGen 220W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel (Refurbished) is designed to withstand high temperatures without performance loss, reducing the risk of thermal stress during cleaning on hot days.
EcoFlow NextGen 220W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel (Refurbished)
These panels typically require light cleaning, reducing the need for extensive safety equipment. Place portable panels on a stable surface and avoid using high-pressure sprays to ensure safety and long-term efficiency. Cleaning is often needed if there is visible dirt, especially after RV camping or after placing them temporarily outside your house.
When to Consider Professional Solar Cleaning
If you are unsure and wonder, “How do you clean solar panels?” then you can consider professional solar cleaning services. There are times when DIY cleaning may not be practical or safe. If panels are installed on high or steep roofs that are difficult to access safely, it may be safer to rely on professionals to clean solar panels rather than risking falls or injuries.
Professional cleaners use specialised tools, such as purified water systems and extension equipment, which can clean panels thoroughly without leaving mineral deposits or streaks. This ensures effective maintenance while protecting your safety. Another reason to consider it is when stubborn dirt or heavy bird droppings remain after rain or light cleaning attempts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Panels
Understanding how to clean solar panels includes knowing what mistakes can harm your system or reduce cleaning effectiveness. By avoiding these mistakes, you protect your solar panels while maintaining their output and lifespan. Here are common mistakes to avoid when cleaning solar panels:
Using Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, or strong soaps can leave residues and corrode the surface of the panels. Stick to plain water or a mild, approved cleaning solution. Using harsh chemicals may void your warranty. It can also reduce your panels' light absorption.
Cleaning During Hot Weather: Cleaning during midday can cause thermal shock if cold water contacts hot panels. This may result in cracks or damage. Always clean during early mornings or late evenings. This timing also makes cleaning more comfortable for you.
Applying Excessive Pressure: Pressing too hard while wiping or attempting to clean solar panels can create micro-cracks on the surface. These cracks may not be visible immediately, but can reduce the panel’s efficiency over time. Always apply light pressure while cleaning.
Ignoring System Shutdown: Forgetting to turn off your system before starting to clean solar panels is a critical mistake that can lead to electrical hazards. Cleaning live panels increases the risk of electric shock, especially if water contacts wiring.
Using High-Pressure Water: Using high-pressure washers to clean solar panels may seem efficient, but can damage the surface or force water into seals and wiring. This can lead to long-term issues such as moisture ingress and reduced panel performance.
Conclusion
Understanding how to clean solar panels is essential for maintaining their efficiency and extending their lifespan. Following correct methods, using proper tools, and knowing the right timing ensures panels operate within their expected performance. Cleaning should be approached with care and safety while avoiding practices that may damage the system. Monitoring output helps you identify when to clean panels to prevent unnecessary energy loss. Remember, every surface you clean means unblocking the way to allow the sunlight to reach the cells of your solar panels.
FAQs
What is the best thing to clean solar panels with?
The best way to clean solar panels is with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge, paired with lukewarm water. This helps avoid scratching or damaging the surface while still effectively removing dust and debris. For stubborn grime or buildup, you can use mild, non-abrasive soap diluted in water. Harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, like scrub brushes with rough bristles, should be avoided, as they can damage the protective coating of the panels and reduce their efficiency over time. Regular cleaning using these gentle methods ensures your panels remain in optimal condition, maximizing their energy production.
What not to do when cleaning solar panels?
When cleaning solar panels, there are several important things to avoid. Do not use high-pressure washers, as the force can damage the panels or their wiring. Similarly, never use abrasive cleaning materials like wire brushes or rough sponges, as these can scratch the glass surface, leading to inefficiency or even breakage. Avoid cleaning your panels during peak sunlight hours to prevent thermal shock, which can cause cracking. Additionally, never walk directly on your panels, as this can cause them to crack or become misaligned. Always ensure the system is turned off to reduce the risk of electrical hazards while cleaning.
Do I need to turn off solar panels before cleaning?
Yes, it is essential to turn off your solar panels before cleaning them. Shutting down the system reduces the risk of electrical hazards, as you won’t be working with live wires. Additionally, cleaning panels while they are still generating power can be dangerous, and the cooling of the panels after shutdown helps avoid thermal shock. The panels could crack or sustain damage if hot from the sun and exposed to the cooler water used for cleaning. Always follow your manufacturer’s shutdown procedure to ensure safety during the cleaning process.
Should I spray water on my solar panels?
Yes, you can spray water on your solar panels, but it's crucial to do so gently. Use a hose with a low-pressure stream to avoid damaging the panels or their wiring. High-pressure water jets should be strictly avoided, as they can cause physical damage or dislodge connections. It’s best to clean your panels during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to reduce the risk of thermal shock. Always use lukewarm water, as extreme temperature differences can cause the glass to crack. Regular, gentle cleaning ensures efficient performance while maintaining the integrity of your solar panels.