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Solar Panel Cleaning Checklist
How often to clean, what to use, and what to leave alone so the glass stays unscratched.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
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Cleaning once or twice a year is what three sources give, more often if you live somewhere dry, dusty or tree-heavy. Marlon Porter, a cleaner quoted by EnergySage, says spring and fall suit most systems. Rain helps, but it doesn't clear heavy grime and can leave dirt at the bottom of the panels. Pressure washers draw the sharpest warnings: several sources say skip them, though RatedPower mentions one for speed, it also notes high-pressure washing can damage panels. This list is for a home system, rooftop or ground-mounted. It leaves out commercial arrays and robots, and assumes you'll hire a pro if the roof isn't for you.
Why these items are on the list
- Check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Owner's or installation manuals may list recommended methods or products, since some modules need specific care.
- Check warranty and lease terms. Damaging the glass can void a warranty, and some leases cover cleaning in the maintenance clause.
- Note your local dust and pollution. Deserts, highways, factories, airports and heavy tree cover all mean cleaning more often.
- Watch output for a dip. RatedPower calls a drop in system output the most obvious sign it's time to clean.
- Pick spring or fall. Twice a year is typical. EnergySage's Marlon Porter suggests spring and fall; a rainy year may skip one.
- Choose a cool time of day. Go early morning or early evening. Panels can get too hot to touch in summer sun.
- Decide DIY or hire a pro. SolarReviews puts professional cleaning at $5 to $15 per panel, and roof work carries real injury risk.
- Gather a soft sponge or squeegee. A non-abrasive sponge or squeegee on an extension pole avoids scratching the glass.
- Rinse with a garden hose. Light dust may need nothing more than a hose-down, so start there.
- Mix mild soap if marks remain. Rinse first, then add soap for what's left. Skip strong chemicals; some pros go soap-free because residue can attract dirt.
- Be wary of pressure washers. Other sources warn of cracks or broken seals. RatedPower suggests one for speed but says high pressure can damage panels.
- Clean from the ground if possible. Long-handled tools from the ground are the safest route for roof-mounted panels.
- Use a harness on the roof. If ground access isn't possible, take a pro's precautions: safety harness, rope and hardhat.
- Clear droppings and leaves promptly. Larger debris can block many cells, so don't wait for the next scheduled cleaning.
- Wipe the glass only. You don't need to worry about the wiring underneath. Wiping the surface does the job.
- Leave snow alone. Snow usually slides off on its own; if it stays, use a snow rake made for panels.
- Note the date for next time. EnergySage says about every six months, depending on location. Set the reminder before you put the ladder away.
Keep it on your phone out by the hose and tick as you go. The order stays the same next season, so you're not working from memory.
When to use it
Use it in spring or fall, or any time your output dips after a dusty spell, a wildfire or a leafy stretch.