How do you clean solar panels?

The smartest way to clean your solar panels is to approach the process the same way you would clean your car. Dish soap and clean water applied with a soft sponge or cloth is the safest and easiest cleaning method. It may also be helpful to use a squeegee to remove dirty water. Remember: Avoid damaging or scratching the glass at all costs.

Do solar panels need cleaning?

There are some instances where solar panels might need cleaning, but most of the evidence says solar panels are self-sufficient and low-maintenance. We’ll get to the best way to clean your solar panels in a minute.

How much does solar panel cleaning cost?

A professional solar panel cleaning company may not necessarily do a significantly better job than you can, but they're likely better equipped to clean and maintain rooftop units safely and already have all of the necessary equipment. Plus, professional solar panel cleaning will usually only cost you around $150-$300, or $15-$30 per panel.

What should I do if my solar panels get dirty?

Shut off your solar panel system – this ensures your safety and that your equipment won’t get damaged. Use a soft brush to clean the surface of your dirty solar panels to remove debris like dirt and dust. Never use a rough or coarse brush as it could damage your panels.

How much money can you save by cleaning your solar panels?

The UCSD study also found that normal debris such as dust, dirt, and pollen have a minimal effect on efficiency. Less than 0.05 percent efficiency is lost on average. For a homeowner, that adds up to saving about $20 a year by cleaning their solar panels halfway through the summer.

Should you clean your solar panels during the summer?

Less than 0.05 percent efficiency is lost on average. For a homeowner, that adds up to saving about $20 a year by cleaning their solar panels halfway through the summer. Essentially, under normal circumstances, you’ll likely pay more to have your panels cleaned than you’ll earn back in solar efficiency.