Once you have your new solar panels installed, you’ll likely have several questions about maintenance. Since the system remains exposed to outdoor elements, solar panel maintenance takes priority for many homeowners. One of the most common questions is: How often should you clean your solar panels?
As professional installers of Arizona’s residential solar panels, our team at Solar Solution AZ offers guidance on when and how to clean your solar panels. Call us at (520) 858-0220 to learn more about our expert solar solutions.
How Often You Should Clean Solar Panels
How often should you clean your solar panels without professional help? You shouldn’t do it at all! At first, cleaning solar panels with warm soapy water might seem like a good idea.
But doing so on your roof without the proper safety equipment can cause a disaster. Professional cleaners have the necessary safety equipment. They also use cleaning solutions that are safe for the surrounding environment.
Perform Weekly Inspections
While you shouldn’t deep-clean your solar panels yourself, you can take a few steps to keep them in the best condition between professional cleanings. Plan inspections on a weekly basis to stay on top of your solar panels’ condition.
Leaves, bird droppings, and branches can impact how much solar energy you receive. If you observe large debris from trees and animals, perform a quick solar panel cleaning by removing the debris.
You should perform additional checkups after severe weather. Storms and strong winds can blow larger debris onto your roof. This large debris might damage your solar panels.
Routine inspections followed by prompt cleanups and timely repairs will make your panels last longer.
Schedule Professional Cleanings Biannually
So how often should you clean your solar panels professionally? While the frequency ultimately depends on your local climate, we recommend professional maintenance service twice a year.
Arizona’s dry climate often calls for more frequent visits from a professional cleaner. The wind and lack of rain allow debris to travel more easily. Dirt and dead leaves get wedged inside the panel frames.
Ideally, you should have your solar panels cleaned before spring begins and in early autumn.
Advantages of Professional Cleanings
If DIY cleaning methods still tempt you, keep the advantages of professional cleaning services in mind.
- Professional cleanings can increase energy output by ten percent or more.
- If you don’t have all the proper equipment, you’ll have to purchase and store it. Professional cleaners already possess the equipment.
- You can sustain injuries from working on the rooftop. Adding soapy mixtures to the equation increases the danger. Professional services circumvent that.
- Your warranty or lease may require professional cleaning. If you accidentally damage the panels during cleaning, you could nullify your warranty or be held liable by the lease’s terms.
Call Solar Solution AZ for Advanced Solar Services in Southern Arizona
How often should you clean your solar panels? We recommend weekly inspections and twice-yearly cleaning services from a professional. Learn more about choosing a solar panel system for your home by working with our qualified team at Solar Solution AZ.
Call us at (520) 858-0220 to schedule an installation consultation.
