Solar System Maintenance

Solar panels are designed for outdoor conditions and can tolerate some grime. But a build-up of dust, dirt and debris can block light and reduce their efficiency.

If your house is single storey, brush away anything you can reach with a long-handled, soft-bristled broom. Dirt and debris that you can’t reach should wash off when it rains if the panels are on an angle. If not, you can gently hose them.

You might also need to hose down your panels if they’re installed on a flat roof with no tilt frame. Rain can pool on a flat panel and leave a muddy mark.

Keep your feet on the ground, and only spray your solar panels lightly (never use a pressure hose – it could damage them).

Professional cleaning?

If your panels are very dirty or hard to reach, use a professional cleaning service. Ask your installer about having your panels cleaned during a system service. They might include it or recommend a specialist solar cleaning service. Check your warranty to make sure that any work done by a cleaning service won’t void it.

Solar panel cleaners should use full safety gear and not stand on or place anything on top of the panels. They should not use harsh soap or chemicals – usually water is enough.