Is Solar Panel Cleaning Necessary
Over time, solar panels will accumulate various substances such as dust, tree sap, lichen, soot, and bird droppings,
which builds-up a layer of dirt accross the panels. Unfortunately, this accumulation can create cellular
shading on the panels, which in turn prevents sunlight from reaching the cells. As a result, the
system's performance is negatively impacted, leading to a loss of efficiency and ultimately,
less financial returns for the owner and investor of these solar energy options.
How We Clean Your Solar Panels
Our solar panel cleaning process is designed to be safe and effective, ensuring your panels are cleaned thoroughly
without the need to climb onto your roof. We use extendable, water-fed poles equipped with solar
specific brushes that gently scrub the surface of the panels. This method allows us to reach
and clean the panels either from the ground or from ladders or a scaffold tower,
avoiding any potential damage to your roof or the panels themselves.
We also use hot purified water to rinse the panels, which helps to remove dirt, dust, and debris without leaving any
streaks or residue. This ensures that your solar panels are operating at maximum efficiency, capturing as
much sunlight as possible to generate energy. Our approach is not only safe but also
environmentally friendly, as it avoids the use of harsh chemicals.
After this we recommend that your panels are cleaned every 1 to 2 years to maintain their performance.
We aim to carry out all annual solar panel cleans in the spring so they are at their cleanest for summer.
Case Study
Some belive that there is little to no benefit to cleaning solar panels as they still work when dirty.
Whilst they still produce energy, this is severley reduced. The below images
are from a solar array we recently cleaned for a client.
This solar array is a microinverter system due to the layout and partial shading of the roofs at certain times.
As the client is able to see the production data, this gave us the opportunity to see
how much of a difference cleaning the panels would make.
In this case, we saw a 95% increase in energy production! Whilst each array is different and depending on
the system type and severity of soiling, clean solar panels peform much better than dirty
ones and is well worth the investment to keep them clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about our solar panel cleaning service in Somersham
How often should I clean my solar panels?
The frequency of cleaning depends on your location and environmental factors, but it's generally recommended to clean them once a year. For example, in areas with lots of rain, you might not need to clean them as often, while in dry, dusty areas, you might need to clean them more frequently.
Is it OK to pressure wash solar panels?
Pressure washers should never be used on solar panels. While they are excellent for cleaning the exterior of your home, including the roof and gutters. High pressure water can damage the seals around the panels and force water past these seals and into the panel.
Will you need to go onto my roof?
To carry out the solar cleaning service, we do not walk or climb onto your roof.
We access your roof by means of scaffold towers or ladders.
Are you insured for solar panel cleaning?
We are fully insured for all of our services we offer, including solar panel cleaning.
How much does solar panel cleaning cost?
We understand and appreciate that every solar PV system is different, from the soiling to the layout and access, and therefore cannot offer a one price fits all approach.
What we guarantee you is careful consideration of your individual needs and that of your PV system, offering a transparent pricing structure with no hidden fees guaranteed.
What chemicals do you use?
Manufacturers don’t recommend the use of harmful chemicals or detergents to clean solar panels.
For the majority of solar panels, hot purified water is enough to thoroughly clean them.
There are a number of manufacturer approved chemicals available for solar panel cleaning which we may utilize on all but the worst panels, usually ones covered in lichen.
Why People Choose Us
Appointment Reminders
You won't have to worry about us turning up unannounced as we will text, call or email the day before. Giving you complete peace of mind knowing who is visiting your property and an opportunity to allow access.
Reliable
A fully insured, friendly and local solar panel cleaning service. We utilise the latest cleaning and access equipment to get the best results. With a strong track record of satisfied customers and a commitment to safety
and quality, you can trust us to handle your solar panel cleaning needs efficiently and effectively.
Security
The security of your home is our priority. We ensure to keep all gates closed and secure during our visit.
We treat your property with the same care and respect as if it were our own.