Do My Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned? What Home and Business Owners Need to Know.

March 15, 2024

As more and more people turn to solar energy to power their homes and businesses, questions about maintenance may arise. One question that often comes up is, “Do my solar panels need to be cleaned?” In this blog, we’ll dive into the information about keeping your solar panels clean and let you know what we recommend.

Do Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned?

Clean solar panels are more efficient, ensuring energy production. Dirty panels, on the other hand, can lead to decreased efficiency.

For Residential

Residential solar panels benefit from regular cleaning. Dust, dirt, and bird droppings can accumulate over time, reducing the panels’ ability to absorb sunlight as efficiently as they do when clean. Being mindful of the condition of your solar panels can help you stay aware, ensuring that they are promptly cleaned when necessary.

For Business

Businesses with solar installations face similar challenges. For larger commercial setups, professional cleaning services may be more suitable to handle the scale of the operation.

What Causes Solar Panels to Get Dirty?

Understanding the reasons behind dirty solar panels is crucial for effective maintenance. Here, we’ll explore the primary causes, starting with common elements like dirt and bird droppings.

Dirt: Dust and debris from the environment can settle on solar panels, reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent these particles from obstructing sunlight absorption.
Bird Droppings: While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, bird droppings can have a significant impact on solar panel efficiency. Cleaning bird droppings promptly is essential to avoid damage and maintain optimal performance.
Additional Causes: Include more causes like leaves and other environmental factors, ensuring a comprehensive overview.

How Often Do My Panels Need to Be Cleaned?

The frequency of solar panel cleaning varies based on factors like local environment, weather, panel orientation, and type of dirt. In Hawaii, homes on the east side may require more frequent cleaning due to increased rainfall and buildup, while those located on the west side may need less. Residential panels may need cleaning every few months, while commercial installations in dusty or polluted areas may require more frequent maintenance.

How Do You Clean Solar Panels?

For the most part, cleaning solar panels does not require any special cleaning equipment. Realistically you can clean panels with water, soap, and a brush. The complications come in with the safety of cleaning panels. Accessing your panels may not be entirely safe, and that is why we recommend getting a professional to clean the panels.

How Much Does It Cost to Have Solar Panels Cleaned?

The cost of panel cleaning can fluctuate based on the number of panels and the difficulty of accessing them on your home.

For efficient solar panel cleaning tailored to your needs, consider reaching out to Aloha Solar Panel Cleaning. Their expertise ensures thorough cleaning regardless of panel quantity or accessibility challenges. Visit their website for a free quote.