How to clean solar panels

February 17, 2025February 20, 2025

Solar panels can last for decades, if they are properly maintained. Most solar panels still function if they are a little dusty, but an excess of dirt can cause them to perform less effectively, meaning they need to be cleaned.

Table of Contents

When do solar panels need cleaning?

How often solar panels need cleaning depends on the model, the manufacturer’s instructions, and whether you have experienced adverse weather, pollution or other conditions that may particularly impact your panels. The recommendation is usually to clean around once every six months. The best times of day are early morning or evening, before the sun is too bright and hot, to minimise the risk of evaporating water which will cause smudges. Installers such as those at https://gsmlimited.com/services/solar-panels/worcester may be able to advise you on how to clean your solar panels Worcester.

Self-cleaning

Most solar panels have a hydrophobic coating. This means they repel water, such as from rain, so it cannot cling to the panel. As raindrops can carry dirt, this helps prevent too much of a buildup on the surface, whilst washing away any existing debris. Some panels will also have self-cleaning features such as sprinklers.

Manual cleaning

The cleaning process will depend on whether your panels are mounted on the roof or at ground level. If you do not have professional training and qualifications, climbing a ladder to clean your panels is generally too much of a risk. You may still be able to use a long-handled brush to wash them clean yourself, but professional inspections and cleaning may also help with the early identification of other damage or potential problems.

At ground level, you should use a soft cloth or sponge, not anything that could scratch, with some warm, soapy water that contains a mild detergent. Rinse with some clean water, and maybe dry with a squeegee or microfibre cloth to avoid smudges and streaks.

If you are going to clean your solar panels, you need to have full regard for safety, and to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. That will ensure that your panels continue to work effectively for longer.