How to clean solar panels from the ground

While solar panels are amazingly durable, they can accumulate dirt, dust, pollen, bird droppings, and other debris over time. All these can partially block sunlight and reduce the panel’s performance. How to clean solar panels from the ground? Read in our article.

Ground-level cleaning: Tools

To clean solar panels from the ground, prepare:

• Soft-bristled brush. Use a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the surface of the panels.
• Leaf blower. A leaf blower can help to remove loose debris like fallen twigs and leaves.
• Non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth. Don’t use rough or abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the panel’s surface.
• Hose. A garden hose with a sprayer attached is perfect for most cleaning jobs. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they may damage the panels.
• Mild detergent. If necessary, a mild detergent mixed with water can be used to remove tougher stains. Choose a detergent that is biodegradable and does not contain harsh chemicals that could harm the environment or the panels.
• Squeegee. A squeegee can help remove excess water and ensure a streak-free finish.
• Extension pole. An extension pole will help to reach the panels comfortably from the ground.

Ground-level cleaning: Steps

Cleaning solar panels from the ground is not that hard and you can easily do it yourself. Here is our DIY guide to do it properly:

• Prioritize safety: Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to turn off the solar panel system to avoid any electrical hazards. Check the weather and don’t plan your cleaning during excessively hot days. Cleaning hot panels with cold water may cause thermal shock and damage them.

• Proceed to cleaning: Start by removing loose debris with a soft-bristled brush or a leaf blower. Then rinse the solar panels with a hose and gently scrub the surface of the panels with a soft-bristled brush, starting from the top and working your way down. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the glass.

If you encounter stubborn stains, mix a mild detergent with water and use it to spot clean the affected areas. Rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent any detergent residue. After cleaning, use a squeegee to remove excess water from the panels. This helps to achieve a streak-free finish and prevent water spots. Don’t turn the panels on right after the cleaning. Give them about half an hour to get completely dry.

• Inspect the panels: Keep an eye on your solar panel system’s performance to ensure that it is producing the expected amount of energy. If you notice any significant drops in energy output or identify any visible damage, such as cracks or broken parts, it is a clear sign that further inspection or maintenance is required.

Now your panels are crystal-clear. Clean them every six months to ensure maximum performance and read our article to learn more about how to clean solar panels properly.

Julia Zaraeva

Author

Years of experience in translation and a love of nature help Julia find the right words to encourage going solar. She joined the team in 2023 and is happy to make her contribution to a greener future.

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