Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. But over time, they can become coated with dust, pollen, bird droppings and other debris that blocks sunlight from reaching the solar cells. Even a thin film of dirt on the panels can reduce their energy production significantly. Regular cleaning helps solar panels operate at maximum efficiency to generate the most savings and return on investment. However, cleaning must be done correctly to avoid issues.
How to Clean Solar Panels at Home (Best Way)
If you're looking to go the DIY route, we recommend using clean water, detergent, and a good quality soft brush to apply soapy water. Now, if some parts of the panels need a little extra cleaning, feel free to use a mild detergent. It can take you a long time to finish and may feel tired when using this basic method but trust me, this is the best way to help prevent strong chemicals from leaving marks and keep the long-lasting for your solar panels.
1. Preparations: Gather your cleaning supplies which should include a soft brush (microfiber cloths work great), a spray bottle filled with cleaning solution, and a bucket of clean water. If you are confused about choosing a cleaning solution, you can refer to the list of best solar panel cleaners below or another method below.
Start by laying down drop clothes or tarps below the panels to catch any excess cleaning water. Also, wear gloves and protective eyewear for safety.
2. Spray the cleaning solution evenly across the top section of the panels. You don't want large volumes of liquid sitting on top. Use overlapping strokes from the top down with your soft brush or microfiber cloths to gently wipe away dirt and debris. Apply light pressure only, as too much force could potentially damage the anti-reflective solar panel coatings over time.
3. Rinse it thoroughly with water from your bucket using overlapping strokes in the same direction. Check for any remaining dirt or streaks and re-clean as needed. Let the area air dry before moving to the next section below.
4. Repeat this process of spray cleaning solution, gentle wiping, and rinsing section-by-section from top to bottom across the entire array of solar panels. Pay close attention to frames and areas where dust/grit may collect.
When finished, inspect your work and re-clean any missed spots. Dispose of your dirty cleaning solution properly and pack up supplies.
Safety Tips For DIYers Solar Panel Cleaning
Work slowly in sections for best results. Rushing can cause streaking.
Wipe the cleaning solution and rinse water from frames and edges first before interior panel surfaces to avoid dripping.
Check weather forecasts and try to schedule cleaning for mornings with lower humidity to aid drying.
Inspect panels regularly for bird droppings, tree debris or other issues that require prompt cleaning to prevent damage.
Consider engaging a professional service for large commercial arrays, multiple-story rooftop panels, or those in hard-to-reach places.
Store cleaning supplies safely after use to keep them in good condition between cleanings.
Be sure to clean after seasonal changes too when new types of dirt or pollen may accumulate on panels.
Why You Shouldn't Pressure Wash Solar Panels?
While pressure washing is convenient for other outdoor cleaning jobs, it should never be used on solar panels. The extremely high pressure can easily damage or dislodge solar cells. Even with the lowest pressure setting, water can still seep into microcracks and cause problems over time that reduce performance.
- Read also: Can You Pressure Wash Solar Panels?
Additional Common Cleaning Solar Panels Methods
Have to say,we don't recommend these ways to clean your solar panels because each method has a different disadvantage so if you trying this one, you have to prepare carefully. For those who don't have time to do the cleaning method above, you can refer to cleaning with
1. Water/Vinegar Spray Method
- Tools: A pump spray bottle filled with vinegar/water solution
- Mist cleaning fluid generously across small sections of panels from a distance of 1-2 feet.
- Use multiple towels to wipe and buff the dry section, working towards the bottom in overlapping strokes.
- Rinse the spray bottle frequently to avoid dirt residue building up.
- For heavy dirt, let the solution soak briefly before wiping. Works well but risks uneven cleaning.
Advice: This method is convenient in that you can find the materials in your house without buying them. But for some heavy dirt cannot be cleaned completely and also takes a lot of time to finish.
2. Automated Cleaning Systems
- Machines use rotating brush heads, wipers, or spray manifolds attached to overhead gantry
- Programmed via software to clean the entire array in a set pattern, 1-2 passes per section
- Integrated fluid tanks, pumps, and wringers for efficient cleaning of large areas
- Initial investment but pays for itself with reduced long-term labor costs. Consistent coverage.
Advice: Shorter cleaning time and is perfect for families with many solar panels
3. Robotic Cleaning Devices
- Small self-propelled robots outfitted with microfiber or plastic wipers, sponges
- Onboard batteries and controls allow autonomous cleaning of rows or individual panels
- Programmed via tablet or controller. Multi-robot coordination for large arrays.
- Thorough cleaning but high initial costs. Works well as maintenance between manual cleanings.
Advice: Difficult to find Robotic Solar Panels Cleaning on Interet and the cost to buy is very expensive.
4. Pressure-Washing with Nozzle/Low PSI
- Gas or electric pressure washer set to lowest PSI (800-1000), wide fan spray tip
- Spray cleaning solution in sweeping motions, rinse with water attachment immediately
- Must use extreme care. Not suitable for novice users or heavily soiled surfaces. Risk of damage.
Advice: Risks can be encountered when you do not control the allowable pressure. They will destroy the solar panels and make them unusable anymore.
5. Dusting/Blowing Method
- Compressed air blower on the lowest setting, gently blow the dust off horizontal surfaces
- Inspect panels regularly as dust can re-deposit quickly if not fully removed.
Advice: Does not remove buildup but helps maintain cleanliness between full cleanings.
