Last Updated on 20 January 2025
In this article, we share the best practices for maintaining commercial solar panels. Learn about the benefits of professional cleaning, costs and why you should hire an expert.
Solar panels are a significant investment for any commercial property, providing clean and renewable energy and lowering operational expenses. However, to ensure they operate efficiently and have a long lifespan, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. Our commercial roof experts have been helping Australian businesses since 2003, giving us over 20 years of experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about commercial solar panel cleaning.
Do Commercial Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned?
Yes, commercial solar panels need to be regularly cleaned.
Without proper cleaning; dust, dirt, pollen, bird droppings and other debris can accumulate on the panels, blocking sunlight, reducing solar panel efficiency and ultimately impacting your investment. Dirty solar panels will not perform efficiently, reducing the impact of your investment. Regular cleaning helps maintain maximum energy production and protects the panels, reducing the chance of potential damage.
How Often Do Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned?
The frequency of cleaning commercial solar panels depends on several factors, including the climate, location, and environmental conditions. In areas surrounded by trees, dust or bird activity, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Generally, it’s recommended to clean dirty solar panels at least once or twice a year to maintain peak performance and maximise solar panel efficiency.
If you are unsure if your solar panels need to be cleaned, contact our team of experts and get a free quote.
Benefits of Maintaining Commerical Solar Panels
Regular solar panel cleaning and maintenance not only ensures optimal solar panel efficiency and longer panel life but it also protects your investment. By cleaning dirty solar panels, you can avoid potential warranty issues and ensure that your commercial solar panels operate at peak efficiency, reducing your overall energy costs. Additionally, clean solar panels contribute to a cleaner environment and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Optimal solar panel efficiency
- Extended solar panel lifespan
- Avoid warranty issues
- Reduce overall energy costs.
- Reduce carbon footprint.
Do Solar Panels Need to Be Turned Off During Cleanings?
No, commercial solar panels do not need to be turned off during cleaning. They can continue to generate electricity during the cleaning process, ensuring your workplace isn’t interrupted.
How Much Does Solar Panel Cleaning Cost in Australia?
The cost of commercial solar panel cleaning in Melbourne varies depending on factors such as the size of the solar panel, accessibility, and the cleaning method used. On average, you can expect to pay between $10 to $20 per panel for professional cleaning services. DIY cleaning may cost less, but it can be less effective and pose safety risks.
Solar panel cleaning equipment also isn’t cheap and using the wrong kind of equipment can damage your panels and pose a safety risk.
What Kind of Water Should Be Used for Cleaning Solar Panels?
You’ve cleared your solar panels of dirt and debris, so what you don’t want to do is wash them in a solution filled with minerals and impurities. Therefore, distilled (filtered) water is the best option as its free of impurities that would otherwise dry onto the panels.
Is it OK to use tap water to clean my solar panels?
Yes, if you don’t have distilled water or a solar panel cleaning solution, tap water will work.
What solution should be used to clean my solar panels?
Solar panel cleaning solutions are available and would be the best option to extend the life and efficiency of your panels. However, if you don’t have any available you can use water on its own, and for solar panels with heavily built up grime, you can use a mixture of water with a small amount of dish soap/washing up liquid.
We also strongly advise against using a pressure washer to clean your commercial solar panels, as that can damage any seals
And, if it’s the middle of summer, try washing your panels in the morning or evening. They’re tough material, built to withstand Australia’s scorching sun, but that doesn’t mean thermal shock won’t affect them.
Should You DIY, Hire a Contractor or Hire a Qualified Expert?
While DIY or hiring a contractor are both cost-effective alternatives, hiring a qualified professional is recommended for several reasons:
- Safety: Working on rooftops can be dangerous. Professionals have the necessary safety equipment and training to prevent accidents.
- Efficiency: Professionals use dedicated solar panel cleaning equipment and techniques that ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the panels.
- Peace of Mind: Hiring experts like ourselves ensure that the job is done right the first time, protecting your time and financial investment.
- Free Roof Report: Portervac provides a free roof report with each cleaning, helping you identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
Additional Benefits of Professional Solar Panel Cleaning
In addition to maximising energy production and protecting your investment, professional commercial solar panel maintenance offers several other benefits:
- Environmental Impact: Clean solar panels contribute to a cleaner environment by maximising energy production and reducing your carbon footprint.
- Longevity: Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of your commercial solar panels by preventing build-up and potential damage.
- Warranty Compliance: Many solar panel warranties require regular maintenance and cleaning to remain valid. Hiring a professional ensures that you comply with warranty requirements.
“In general, solar warranties will not cover you from damage that is caused by incorrect use of the panels. Solar manufacturers provide warranty documents with detailed terms and conditions, and you should read them carefully.” (source)
- Improved Aesthetics: Clean panels look better and maintain the aesthetic appeal of your commercial property.
Our Process of Professional Solar Panel Cleaning
We follow a systematic, yet simple process to ensure effective solar panel cleaning for your commercial property:
- Assessment: We assess the condition of your panels and identify any issues that may need attention.
- Preparation: We prepare your site and ensure all safety measures are in place.
- Cleaning: Using specialised equipment and deionised water, we clean the panels thoroughly without causing damage.
- Post-Cleaning Inspection: After cleaning your panels, we conduct an inspection and ensure the quality of deliverables. This includes before-and-after photos and a Free Roof Report, helping you get a full understanding of the current condition of your roof.
Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the efficiency and longevity of your commercial solar panels. By hiring our team of professionals, you can ensure that your panels are cleaned safely and effectively, maximising their energy production and protecting your investment.
Get in touch with our team of experts today to schedule your free quote.
