Solar panels provide a sustainable and eco-friendly energy source for homes and businesses, harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity.

As solar power continues to gain traction across New Zealand, it’s essential for those using this technology to maintain the efficiency and longevity of their solar panels. One important part of solar panel maintenance that cannot be overlooked is regular cleaning. While it might be tempting to perform this task yourself, hiring a professional solar panel cleaning service can provide various benefits that make it a wise investment.

Professional solar panel cleaning services offer benefits that go beyond just the removal of dirt and debris. These benefits include improved energy efficiency, reduced risk of damage, fewer repairs over time, and longer life spans for your solar panels. With the increasing demand for clean energy and the potential cost savings from tax credits and incentives, it’s essential to prioritise the maintenance and cleanliness of your solar panels to ensure optimal performance.

In addition to the financial benefits, professional solar panel cleaning provides peace of mind, knowing that your investment is in good hands. These services utilise specialised equipment and have the necessary expertise to clean your panels safely and effectively, reducing potential hazards that come with attempting to clean the panels yourself. By entrusting this important task to experts, you can focus on enjoying the benefits of your solar energy system without the worry of damaging your panels or reducing their efficiency.

Benefits of Professional Solar Panel Cleaning

Increased Efficiency

Professional solar panel cleaning can significantly improve the efficiency of your solar panels. Over time, dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate on the surface of the panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight and produce electricity. By having a professional cleaning service restore the cleanliness of your panels, you can potentially increase their efficiency by up to 30%. This can lead to higher returns on investment and potentially lower electricity bills.

Longevity of Solar Panels

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help to extend the life of your solar panels. Properly cleaned panels are less likely to experience hotspots, which are areas that heat up more than usual due to reduced airflow and increased soiling. These hotspots can cause damage to the solar cells and negatively affect the overall performance of the panels. By scheduling regular professional cleanings, you can prevent the buildup of debris and reduce the likelihood of hotspots, ensuring a longer lifespan for your panels.

Protection Against Environmental Factors

Solar panels, while highly efficient and sustainable, are exposed to a variety of environmental factors that can impact their performance and lifespan. Here’s a list of key environmental factors and how regular professional cleaning can help mitigate their effects:

1. Dust and Dirt Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of solar panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Regular cleaning helps maintain the panel’s efficiency by ensuring it has a clear surface for sunlight absorption.

2. Bird Droppings: These can block sunlight from reaching the solar cells, leading to reduced efficiency. They can also be acidic and cause damage to the panels. Regular cleaning ensures that bird droppings and other debris are safely removed without causing further damage.

3. Air Pollution: Soot, smog, and other airborne pollutants can settle on the surface of solar panels, potentially hindering their efficiency. Regular cleaning can remove these pollutants and improve the functioning of the panels.

4. Tree Sap and Pollen: If panels are installed near trees, tree sap and pollen can also accumulate on the surface and block sunlight. Regular cleaning ensures these substances are removed, allowing the panels to function effectively.

5. Salt (in Coastal Areas): For panels installed in coastal areas, salt from the sea can settle on the panel’s surface and cause corrosion over time. Regular cleaning removes salt deposits, reducing the risk of corrosion and damage.

6. Snow: In snowy climates, snow accumulation on panels can block sunlight, reducing their effectiveness. Regular removal of snow ensures the panels are clean and able to produce energy efficiently.

Regular professional cleaning not only mitigates the effects of these environmental factors but also provides an opportunity to inspect the panels for potential damage or wear, helping to ensure that your solar panels continue to operate at their best. By maintaining the cleanliness of your panels, you’re protecting your investment and maximising the potential of your solar energy system.

Professional Cleaning vs. DIY

Safety and Experience

When comparing professional cleaning services with DIY methods, the safety and experience of professionals stand out. Solar panel cleaning often involves accessing hard-to-reach areas on the roof, which can be hazardous for homeowners without proper training or equipment. Professional cleaners, on the other hand, are trained and certified to work at heights, reducing the risks associated with accidents and injuries.

Additionally, professional cleaners have the experience that comes from cleaning numerous solar panels, meaning they can expertly clean and maintain your panels without causing any damage. This experience also allows them to quickly identify any issues, such as wear or potential defects, that may require attention.

Proper Tools and Techniques

Another advantage of hiring professional solar panel cleaners is their access to proper tools, equipment, and cleaning techniques. While a DIY approach might involve using a hose, soft sponge, professional cleaners have specialised equipment that ensures a thorough and safe cleaning experience. For example, at Eco Shine Solar we use:

• Soft brush systems to avoid scratches on the solar cells
  
• Purified water to minimise mineral buildup and streaks
  
• Safety harnesses and fall protection equipment for working at heights.
  

Additionally, professional solar panel cleaners have knowledge of the best techniques to employ. For instance, they avoid pressure washers and abrasive cleaning agents that can damage your solar panels. By using the proper methods, professional cleaners ensure that your solar panels remain in optimal condition and deliver maximum performance.

Frequency of Solar Panel Cleaning

Location-specific Factors

The frequency of solar panel cleaning primarily depends on where you live. In desert climates, such as the U.S. southwest, more regular cleaning is needed due to the large amount of dust and sand that could affect your solar energy system’s output. Some solar panel manufacturers even require you to clean your panels every six months to keep your warranty valid.

In contrast, panels installed in areas with less dust and pollution may not require cleaning as often. However, professional cleaning companies offer more than just washing services; they also check for any damage caused by birds and environmental factors.

Weather Patterns

Solar panels should ideally be cleaned early in the morning or in the evening, preferably on an overcast day. This is because too much sun on wet panels can cause them to dry too quickly, resulting in smudges that decrease their efficiency. It is important to monitor weather patterns in your area to determine the most suitable time for solar panel cleaning. If you cannot clean your panels from the ground, it’s recommended to hire a professional company. They possess the appropriate safety equipment for navigating the roof and can ensure a thorough cleaning.

Some weather factors that may influence the frequency of solar panel cleaning include:

• Rain: In areas with frequent rainfall, you may need to clean your panels less often, as the rain can wash away some dirt and debris.
  
• Snow: Snow accumulation on panels reduces their efficiency, so it’s important to clear away snow promptly and make sure the panels are clean underneath.
  
• Wind: Windy conditions can cause dirt and debris to accumulate on your solar panels, necessitating more frequent cleaning.
  

It’s essential to keep a close eye on the weather patterns in your location and adjust your solar panel cleaning schedule accordingly.

Cost Considerations

ROI of Regular Cleaning

Investing in professional solar panel cleaning can lead to significant return on investment (ROI) over time. The efficiency of solar panels can be negatively affected by dirt, dust, and other debris buildup. Clean solar panels can result in an increase in energy output, which can save you money on your energy bills and recoup the cost of cleaning services.

Some estimates suggest that clean solar panels can produce up to 30% more energy than dirty panels, making it more cost-effective to pay for professional cleaning services every year.

Comparing Cleaning Packages

There are different professional solar panel cleaning services and packages, and prices can vary depending on the size and location of the solar panel array, as well as the complexity and accessibility of the system. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 for a cleaning service.

When comparing cleaning packages, consider the following factors:

• Frequency of Cleaning: How often the cleaning service recommends cleaning your solar panels. This will depend on your location and the environmental conditions. Some providers may offer discounted rates for regular cleanings or annual cleaning subscriptions.
  
• Additional Services: Some professional solar panel cleaning providers also offer supplementary services such as window cleaning, gutter cleaning, pressure washing, and chimney sweeping. Bundling these services together may lead to cost savings.
  
• Discounts and Incentives: Explore your local government and power company offers regarding solar panel cleaning services. You might find tax credits or other incentives to help offset the cost of cleaning services.
  

By carefully evaluating each cleaning package and considering how it meets your needs, you can make an informed decision on which service to invest in, maximising your ROI and ensuring the optimal performance of your solar panels.