How To Clean PV Solar Panels

Should you keep your solar panels clean?

The short answer is yes. Manufacturers recommend annual cleaning to keep the panels clear from debris, droppings or dust. Real-world experience shows this could improve performance by 7% to 15%.

In many locations around the USA, regular rain will ensure the panels stay clean. Many of latest solar panels have a self-cleaning glass coating, so no maintenance may be required.

If you are in a dry, dusty or desert climate, then do a white-glove check with more frequency. If dust is visible on the white glove or towel, then cleaning may help.

In those locations, a "dry" cleaning using a soft cloth or a blower may do the job quickly and easily.

For more stubborn debris, clean AND DRY the surface glass of a solar panel much like you would clean your car with fresh water and soft towel or squeegee. Best to do this very early or late in the day with indirect sun, when temperatures are cooler.

Avoid using soaps or detergents because they may streak the glass of the panel.

DO NOT USE ABRASIVE POWDERS to avoid scratching.

Given the nature of good quality solar panel glass, clean water and a little scrubbing with a cloth covered sponge or soft brush should remove the most stubborn grime.

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