The global roof solar panel market is valued at approximately $89.86 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% through 2033, reflecting rapid expansion as renewable energy adoption accelerates. Solar panels are a good investment. They give you clean energy, provide you with long-term savings on your electric bill, and help you reduce your impact on the planet. Regular cleaning is one of the most frequently neglected aspects of solar panel maintenance. Over time, dust, pollen, bird droppings, and other environmental pollutants can degrade the efficiency of a panel, ultimately reducing productive output. However, the wrong methods of cleaning can also cause more harm than good, scratching the screen, damaging the device, and even voiding warranties.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the best and safest methods for cleaning your solar panels without damaging them, and when it’s time to hand it over to the professionals completely.
Key factors to consider for cleaning the Roof
Type of Roofing Material
A variety of materials (ceramic/tile, metal, asphalt, or copper) need to be cleaned with specific procedures to prevent damage and discoloration.
Dirt and Debris Accumulation
Leaves, dust, and bird droppings may also prevent sunlight from reaching a roof, causing it to degrade or develop stains.
Local Weather Conditions
However, in areas with frequent dust storms, rain, or dense tree cover, you may need to clean your roof and panels more frequently to keep the system clear of debris.
Safety Concerns
Elevated (high) roofs may create a hazard for slipping on them. Before doing anything, always prioritize safety and ensure you have the right equipment or hire a professional.
How Often Should You Clean Your Solar Panels?
Solar panel cleaning frequency should be once a year to maintain their efficiency.Houses near trees tend to gather leaves, sap, and bird-and-squirrel poop; homes near the sea may suffer from salt-spray buildup that may hinder panel performance. Dirt and pollutants also accumulate more quickly on solar surfaces in areas with high dust levels or heavily trafficked urban regions. If you notice a buildup or a reduction in your system’s energy generation, that is a good indication that you should consider cleaning it more often. For more detailed advice, we have a blog post that explains how to clean your solar panels effectively, taking into account your specific location.
Common Cleaning Mistakes That Damage Panels
You might think of cleaning your solar panels as a simple task, but a single misstep can lead to permanent damage. Here are some mistakes to avoid making:
- These could damage or loosen parts of solar panels.
- Scrubbing with an abrasive brush. The brush can scratch the glass.
- The use of harsh chemicals or detergents: These can leave behind a residue or wear out the finish.
- You can cause microcracks, break cells, or void warranties.
Caring for your solar panels so that they last for many years to come properly begins with being familiar with the solar panel cleaning mistakes you want to avoid. Proper preparation is, and should be, the rule of thumb.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Solar Panels Safely
Check the Weather
Begin by selecting the optimal time of day and weather conditions that best suit your needs. Washing your panels under direct sun, especially in the middle of the day, can cause the water and soap to dry before you’re able to rinse and squeeze, resulting in streaks, spots, or residue. You’ll want to aim for the early morning, late evening, or a cloudy day when the panels are calm and safe to touch.
Turn Off Your Solar System
The entire solar power system must be powered down according to the manufacturer’s directions before you start cleaning. The purpose of this is to keep you safe and reduce the possibility of any electric shock that can occur while working with the panels or wiring.
Use a Low-Pressure Hose with Spray
Please do not use a power washer or a high-pressure nozzle, as it might damage the glass or loosen panel mounts. The surface dirt, dust, and loose pieces should be rinsed with a garden hose using a gentle flow; do not use a pressure washer on your panels. Begin at the top and allow the water to flow down naturally.
Prepare a Cleaning Solution
A bucket of warm distilled water and a couple of drops of mild, non-abrasive dish soap work best. It’s also best to use distilled water to avoid mineral spots and hard water stains. Try to avoid using caustic cleaners, as they can damage the panel surfaces or frames.
Rinse Thoroughly
After cleaning thoroughly, remove the soap with low-pressure water. Excess soap can cause streaks or interfere with the sunshine draw. Keep your panels clear of buildup to promote optimal performance.
Let Panels Dry Naturally or Wipe Softly
Generally, panels can be allowed to air dry. Then, if necessary, dry with a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth by gently patting it dry, especially in a humid environment where water spots are likely to form.
When to Hire a Professional
At other times, it’s not worth risking life and limb to clean your solar panels at all, especially if you have a steep or tall roof or one that’s difficult to access. When you hire a professional solar panel company, they are trained to work safely on the surface of a sloped or multi-story rooftop and come equipped with special tools and techniques that leave your system undamaged or unsullied. With a professional, you can get a complete cleaning that is safe on your warranty and doesn’t leave anything to guess or hazard. Experts can also detect signs of wear that might go unnoticed, such as cracks or corrosion. Some companies also employ water-efficient, eco-friendly techniques and provide insurance-backed services, so homeowners can be reassured that their solar system will perform well over the long life of the solar investment. Hiring solar panel service companies can also uncover issues before they escalate. Plus, regular professional solar cleaning ensures your system always performs at its best.
Cleaning as Part of Overall Energy Efficiency
Cleaning your solar panels isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a critical component of your home’s overall energy performance. Regular cleaning leads to:
- Higher electricity production.
- Improved return on investment (ROI).
- Reduced reliance on the power grid.
- Extended system lifespan.
When combined with other energy-saving steps—like sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation, or installing energy-efficient appliances—your home becomes a powerhouse of sustainability.
Discover our expert tips to enhance energy efficiency and optimize solar system performance for lasting savings. Also, don’t forget that your roof itself plays a significant role in efficiency. Any cracks, leaks, or damage around your solar mounts can compromise both your roof and solar investment. Schedule a professional roof inspection to assess the roof’s condition before solar cleaning, ensuring everything is structurally sound.
Conclusion
Keeping your solar panels clean is crucial to maximizing power output and achieving the best return on your investment. Whether you prefer to clean yourself or hire someone to do it, take a gentle approach. Keep in mind not to use tough tools, high pressure, or walk over your panels. And if you have a steep roof or hard-to-reach panels, don’t take the risk and call the pros. When it comes to SolaroofNY, we not only install solar panels, but we also take care of them as if they were our own. From cleanings to inspections, we maintain your panels year-round. Reach out to Solaroof NY now to schedule a cleaning, inspection, or consultation and make the most of the sun’s free energy safely and efficiently.
