Save Your Photons and Clean Your Solar Panels

Are dirty solar panels secretly robbing you blind?

If you’ve ever looked up at your rooftop solar panels and wondered, “Do I really need to clean those?” — this episode is your wake-up call. Whether your system is a year old or just a few months in, there’s a high chance those precious photons aren’t making it through the grime. And yes, that dirt is costing you money.

We’re diving headfirst into one of the most overlooked ways to boost your solar performance: cleaning your panels the right way — not the nonsense you’ve read online. We’re cutting through the clutter and breaking down three questions every solar owner needs to ask:

1. When should you clean your solar panels? 2. How should you clean them? 3. And most importantly, who should do it?

Expect myth-busting, hard numbers, and a surprising truth: you might be flushing hundreds of dollars in savings down the drain by doing nothing — or worse, doing it the wrong way. That garden hose trick? It might actually be ruining your panels.

Plus, we’ve got jaw-dropping before-and-after photos (and a must-see video clip) that show just how much energy output you’re sacrificing when panels go untouched. Spoiler alert: a single dirty edge can slash performance by over 50%.

We’re not just here to preach — we’ve cleaned thousands of panels since 2001 and we’re showing you what actually works. From safety tips and soap tricks to de-ionized water wizardry and spotting mineral damage, this is the ultimate guide to reclaiming your power, one photon at a time.

Oh, and if you care about saving money and rescuing photons from quantum death? You definitely don’t want to miss the final five minutes.

🔊 Hit play and let’s get those panels sparkling — your wallet (and your inner science nerd) will thank you.

👉 Listen to this week's Energy Show.

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Transcript Below:

Solar Panel Cleaning: Maintaining Optimal Energy Production

This document summarizes key considerations for cleaning residential and commercial solar panels, drawing on insights from the "Energy Show" hosted by Barry Cinnamon.

The Importance of Clean Solar Panels:

While solar panels may appear relatively clean from the ground, even a thin layer of dust and debris can significantly reduce their energy output. Over time, this soiling leads to a noticeable decline in system performance, as illustrated by data showing a 12% reduction in output over three years in one example. Cleaning the panels restored some of this lost production, highlighting the economic benefits of maintenance.

When Should You Clean Your Solar Panels?

Several factors influence the frequency of cleaning:

• Rainfall: Areas with less rainfall (e.g., deserts, California) require more frequent cleaning as natural rinsing is minimal.

• Sunlight: Regions with high solar irradiance (e.g., Southern US) will experience greater energy losses when panels are dirty, making cleaning more impactful.

• System Size: Cleaning larger arrays is generally more cost-effective on a per-panel basis.

• Tilt Angle: Steeper panel angles allow rain and dew to wash away soiling more effectively. Flatter panels (especially completely flat installations) accumulate dirt rapidly and require more frequent cleaning. A tilt of at least 5-10% is recommended.

• Environmental Factors: Dusty areas (farms, urban environments), pollen accumulation (especially in spring), and bird droppings contribute to soiling. While bird droppings are localized, they should be addressed.

How Should You Clean Your Solar Panels?

Contrary to some online advice, proper cleaning is crucial to avoid damage and ensure effectiveness:

• Safety First: Exercise extreme caution on rooftops. Panels can be slippery, especially when wet. Never walk directly on the panels. Turning off the solar and battery system is recommended as a safety precaution.

• Avoid Tap Water: The minerals in tap water can leave a white, reflective film on the panels as it dries, further reducing output. This can be particularly problematic with textured glass.

• Don't Just Hose Them Down: Hosing with tap water is generally ineffective and can lead to mineral staining.

• Use Deionized Water: This specially treated water, with minerals removed, is the most effective cleaning agent and leaves no residue.

• Gentle Scrubbing: A soft brush with plastic bristles can be used to remove stubborn dirt, especially the caked-on grime often found at the bottom of panels due to dew accumulation. Avoid abrasive materials like wire brushes.

• Consider Detergent (with caution): If deionized water isn't available, a mild car wash detergent or dish soap can be used, followed by a thorough rinse (preferably with soft water) and squeegeeing to prevent water spots. A light soapy film can also be left in lieu of squeegeeing.

• Never Clean with Just a Hose: This can lead to mineral buildup and doesn't effectively remove stuck-on dirt.

Who Should Clean Your Solar Panels?

Several options exist, each with considerations:

• DIY: Possible if safety precautions are strictly followed and the correct cleaning methods are employed.

• Window Cleaning Companies: Some may offer solar panel cleaning, but ensure they are experienced with rooftop safety and proper techniques.

• Solar Contractors: Often provide professional cleaning services and possess the necessary safety equipment, insurance, and expertise. Ideally, the original installer is a good choice as they are familiar with the system and can perform a system check during cleaning. This check can include inspecting wiring, connections, grounding, monitoring system functionality, and looking for debris or critter nests under the panels.

• Commercial/Utility Scale: These systems typically have dedicated, automated cleaning equipment and protocols.

Economic Benefits of Cleaning:

Cleaning can lead to a significant increase in energy production, resulting in cost savings. In the example provided, a 13% increase in output was observed immediately after cleaning. Over several years, this can translate to hundreds of dollars in savings, especially in areas with higher electricity rates. While the cost of professional cleaning needs to be factored in, it often proves to be a worthwhile investment.

In Conclusion:

Regular and proper cleaning of solar panels is essential for maintaining optimal energy production and maximizing the return on investment. By understanding when to clean, how to clean safely and effectively, and who is best suited to perform the task, solar system owners can ensure their panels continue to efficiently capture the sun's energy. Consider the "premature photonic deaths" and give those valiant energy particles the chance to power your home or business!