A Detailed Solar Panel Cleaning Guide

This is a detailed solar panel cleaning guide that shows you how often to clean solar panels and how simple the process really is. 

If you already use solar power or plan to install a system soon, here’s some good news: solar panel maintenance is easier than most people think. Many homeowners believe solar panels need constant, complicated care. But the reality is different. With simple cleaning and quick routine checks, your panels can keep running efficiently for years.

A little maintenance can save you big money in the long run.

This guide written by Ankit Vyas– MD, Founder of Green Ocean Solar explains how often you should clean your solar panels and how to maintain them the right way.

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Solar Panel

Solar panels work best when sunlight hits the surface directly. Dust, leaves, bird droppings, and pollution block sunlight. Over time, this reduces power generation and increases your electricity bill.

Here are benefits of clearing your solar panel regularly:

• Higher Energy Output
  A clean panel absorbs more sunlight. Cleaning panels regularly restores full efficiency and keeps your savings steady.

• Longer System Life
  Dirt accumulates unevenly over the surface of the panels. This makes certain cells heat up more than others due to the formation of hotspots. Hotspots might also cause permanent damage to the solar cells and, consequently, might reduce the overall life of your system. Cleaning keeps the panel cooler and reduce long-term wear and tear. 

• Financial Savings
  Clean panels maintain peak efficiency, which means your solar investment pays back faster. In commercial setups or solar power plants, poor maintenance can cause huge financial gaps. Regular solar maintenance services ensure predictable savings and stable ROI.

How Often Should You Clean Your Solar Panel?

Basic cleaning is suggested every 3 to 4 months. It also depends on the location you live and the season.

• Based on Location
  If you live in an area with high dust, open plots, construction activity, or busy roads, your panels will gather dust faster. In such places, cleaning every 1–2 months keeps performance stable. If you stay in a clean, less polluted neighbourhood, you may only need to clean the panel once in 4 months with occasional light rinsing.

• Based on Season
  During monsoon season, rains already give the panel a natural rinse. Hence, there’s no need to clean. During summers, maximum dust is accumulated on the panels. Hence, it is recommended to clean the panel every 1-2 months. The dust settles slower in winters, and hence cleaning every quarter would suffice. 

How to Clean Solar Panels?

• Turn off the System
  Before cleaning, always switch off the inverter and isolate the solar power supply. This prevents any electrical issues and ensures safety while cleaning.

• Rinse with Clean Water
  Start by spraying clean water over the panels to loosen dust. Use a low-pressure water flow and not a high-pressure jet.

• Use a Soft Brush or Cloth
  Once the surface is wet, gently scrub using a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth. This removes dirt, bird droppings, and stubborn marks. 

• Avoid Detergents and Chemicals
  Do not use soap, detergents, phenyl, acid-based cleaners, or harsh chemicals. These can corrode the panel surface and lower its efficiency. Plain water is usually enough.

• Clean During Early Morning or Late Evening
  At these times, the panels are cool. This makes it easier to clean. 

• Air Dry the Panels
  Once cleaned, let the panel naturally dry. Avoid wiping aggressively, which can leave scratches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Solar Panels

Many homeowners unknowingly damage their panels. Avoid these mistakes:

• Do not use pressure washers as they can loosen wiring and damage the glass.
• While cleaning, do not step on the panels as the pressure of a body weight can create micro cracks. 
• Do not use any hard brushes or metal tools as they can scratch the panel surface permanently. 
• Do not clean the panel under strong sunlight. This leaves streaks and mineral marks. 

DIY vs Professional Cleaning

You can clean solar panels on your own if:

• The system is small (1-3 kW)
• It’s just a regular dust removal and simple cleaning
• You know how to handle basic tools and clean the system.

Professional cleaning is a better choice if:

• The panel is installed on a high rooftop or slanted surface
• There is a scratch, electrical risk or damage to the mounting structure

Professional cleaners thoroughly inspect the wiring, connections and overall performance during each visit. This helps them detect any issues early. 

It also saves time, ensures expert-level cleaning, and keeps your system performing at maximum efficiency throughout the year.

Green Ocean Solar offers annual solar maintenance services including cleaning, system health checks, and performance monitoring throughout the year. We provide professional solar cleaning services in Bhopal, Indore and Ujjain. Our trained technicians ensure your panels stay dust-free, safe, and operating at peak efficiency. This reliable, planned maintenance keeps your solar investment running smoothly for years.

Planning to Install a New Solar Panel System?

If you’re thinking of installing residential solar panels in Bhopal or neighbouring areas, you can explore cost-effective solutions with Green Ocean Solar. Not just residential, we provide various other types of solar panels in India alongside free annual AMC, smart financial options and end-to-end support. You can contact us to avail a free consultation and monthly savings report. 

Conclusion

Solar panels are a long-term investment, and maintaining them is simple. A little effort every few months helps your system deliver maximum power. Whether you clean them yourself or hire a solar panel maintenance service, the goal is the same – more efficiency, more savings, and long-lasting performance.