How much does it cost to clean solar panels? You decide!

17 Aug 2023
4 min
Beginner

Julia ZaraevaAuthor

To ensure solar panels run at their best, you have to clean them from time to time. No need to do it yourself – cleaning companies will be glad to offer their services. How much does it cost to clean solar panels though? Let’s estimate both do-it-yourself and professional cleaning.

DIY solar panel cleaning: From $0 and up

Cleaning solar panels on your own saves you money, as long as you know what you’re doing. It’ll still require some investments, and not necessarily financial ones.

Investments: Time and tools

To clean your solar panels properly, you’ll need some basic equipment. This might include a cloth, a soft brush with an extended handle, a squeegee, a hose with a gentle spray nozzle, a bucket, and a mild detergent. You probably have some of the above things, and if not, they can be purchased for under $50. Before starting, check our guide on how to clean solar panels properly.

Cleaning solar panels yourself, you don’t pay for professional services, but you do invest your time and effort. The job can take a few hours, depending on the size of your solar array, the level of dirt buildup and your skills.

Points of concern: Safety

When it comes to DIY cleaning, safety should be a top priority. Working at heights, especially on rooftops, poses risks. Make sure you have a secure ladder, proper footwear, and a clear understanding of the process. If possible, avoid climbing your roof at all and clean the panels from the ground.

Professional solar panel cleaning: From $150 and up

If you don’t want to bother with cleaning, consider calling for a service. Entrusting this job to professionals, you can be sure they have all the expertise and tools to get the job done efficiently and hassle-free.

You can call a cleaning company but hiring an independent professional is often cheaper

Investments: $10-$30 per panel

The cost of cleaning solar panels depends on the accessibility of your system and location. Some count per module with the average rate ranging from $10 to $30 per panel. Some offer flat rates which start from around $150 and higher.

If your panels are easy to reach and clean, the cost is lower. When panels are installed on complex roof structures or at greater heights, the price may increase due to the additional precautions and equipment required.

Your location can influence solar panel cleaning costs as well. Ordering service in New York will cost you more than, let’s say, in Texas. Prices also depend on the competition between cleaning service providers, which is noticeably tougher in bigger cities.