How to Clean Solar Panels on a Pitched Roof | 7 Tried Steps
As a solar panel owner, I’ve learned that keeping my solar panels clean is essential for maximizing their efficiency and ensuring they last for years. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on your panels, blocking sunlight and reducing energy output.
Regular cleaning improves performance and helps maintain a home’s aesthetic appeal. Knowing the right cleaning methods can also save you time and effort.
Let me share how to clean solar panels on a pitched roof effectively!
How To Clean Solar Panels On a Pitched Roof?
To Clean Solar Panels On a Pitched Roof, Use a soft-bristle brush with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and avoid walking on the panels.
7 Tried Steps Of How To Clean Solar Panels On a Pitched Roof
Here’s a detailed & Tried steps of How to Clean Solar Panels on a Pitched Roof:
Step 1: Prepare for the Job
- Turn Off Your Solar Panel System: Before starting, make sure to turn off your solar panel system to avoid any electrical issues.
- Gather Your Tools: Have all your cleaning supplies ready to minimize distractions while you work.
Step 2: Safety First
- Choose a Clear Day: Avoid cleaning during rain or extreme heat to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Secure Your Ladder: Place your ladder on stable ground and consider using a ladder stabilizer for extra security.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use non-slip shoes and gloves to prevent accidents.
Step 3: Inspect the Panels
Before climbing up, use binoculars to check for visible dirt or debris from the ground. This will help you assess whether you can clean them yourself or if you need professional help.
Step 4: Wetting the Panels
- Use a Garden Hose: Start by rinsing off loose dirt and debris from the panels using a gentle spray from your garden hose. Avoid high-pressure settings as they can damage the panels.
- Allow Water to Soak: Let the water sit for a minute to loosen any stubborn grime.
Step 5: Apply Cleaning Solution
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Mix mild soap with water in a bucket or spray bottle.
- Apply the Solution: Using a soft sponge or brush, apply the soapy water to one section of the panel at a time, scrubbing gently in circular motions.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse with Hose Again: After scrubbing each section, rinse thoroughly with your garden hose to remove all soap residue.
- Check for Streaks: Ensure there are no remaining soap spots that could affect performance.
Step 7: Drying the Panels
- Use a Squeegee: After rinsing, remove excess water from the panels, starting from the top and pulling downwards to avoid streaks.
- Allow Air Drying: Let the panels air dry completely before inspecting them again.
Solar Panel Cleaning Tools
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Soft-bristle brush or sponge: To gently scrub the panels without scratching.
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle: For rinsing off dirt and debris.
- Mild soap solution: A mixture of water and dish soap works well.
- Squeegee: To remove excess water after cleaning.
- Ladder stabilizer or harness: This is for safety when working on a pitched roof.
What Should Do & Not Do When Cleaning Solar Panels
Do’s
✔️Use mild soap.
✔️Rinse thoroughly.
✔️Use soft brushes.
✔️Clean on cloudy days.
✔️Inspect regularly.
Don’ts
❌Avoid abrasive materials.
❌No high-pressure washers.
❌Don’t walk on panels.
❌Skip harsh chemicals.
❌Don’t clean when hot.
What Problems Can Be Caused By Dirty Solar Panels?
Dirty solar panels can lead to several issues:
- Reduced Efficiency: As mentioned earlier, dirt can block sunlight, leading to less energy production.
- Hot Spots: Accumulated debris can create hot spots on the panels, which may cause damage over time.
- Increased Wear: The longer dirt stays on your panels, the more likely it is to cause scratches or other damage.
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?
In my experience, I recommend cleaning your solar panels at least twice a year. However, this can vary based on where you live and environmental conditions:
- If you live in a dusty area, consider cleaning them every three to four months.
- After heavy rain, check for any debris that might have accumulated.
How to Know When Your Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
Here are some signs that it’s time to clean your solar panels:
- Visual Inspection: If you see dirt or bird droppings on your panels, it’s time for a cleaning.
- Energy Output Drops: If your energy production decreases significantly without any other explanation, dirty panels might be the culprit.
Read Also: How to Make Solar Eclipse Glasses at Home | 3 Tried Steps
How to Clean Solar Panels from the Ground?
If you’re not comfortable climbing onto your roof or if it’s particularly steep, there are options for cleaning from the ground:
- Long-handled brushes: These allow you to reach higher panels without climbing.
- Water-fed poles: These systems use purified water and soft brushes attached to long poles for effective cleaning from below.
How to Clean Solar Panel Glass?
Cleaning solar panel glass is similar to cleaning regular glass but requires more care due to its delicate nature:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water.
- Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
What Is the Best Thing to Clean Solar Panels With?
From my experience, using a mild soap solution mixed with water works best. It’s effective yet gentle enough not to damage the panels.
Cleaning Solar Panels with Vinegar
Vinegar is another option! It’s natural and effective for light cleaning:
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water.
- Apply with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly afterward.
How To Wash Solar Panels Without Damaging The Roof?
To wash solar panels without damaging your roof:
- Always use gentle pressure when scrubbing.
- Avoid walking directly on the panels; instead, work from stable surfaces like ladders.
Read Also: How To Clean Solar Lights Panels | 10 Quick Steps
Can I Use Regular Glass Cleaner or Detergents on Solar Panels?
I advise against using regular glass cleaners or harsh detergents as they can leave residues or cause damage. Stick with mild soap solutions specifically designed for solar panels.
How Much Is Solar Panel Cleaning?
The cost of professional solar panel cleaning can vary based on location and company but typically ranges from $100 to $300 per visit. If you decide to do it yourself, you’ll only need basic supplies!
Why Do Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
You might wonder why cleaning solar panels is so important. Over time, dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on the surface of the panels.
This buildup can block sunlight from reaching the solar cells, reducing their efficiency significantly sometimes by up to 25%!
I’ve noticed that after a good cleaning, my energy output increases noticeably. Keeping my panels clean not only helps save money on my electricity bill but also extends the life of my investment.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your solar panels keeps them efficient and saves you money on energy bills. Always prioritize safety by using stable ladders and protective gear. Clean gently with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
If you see dirt or a drop in energy output, it’s time to clean. Share your tips or questions about how to clean solar panels on a pitched roof in the comments!
