Maintenance of the photovoltaic panel: a complete guide to cleaning and caring for your system

When it comes to energy efficiency and sustainability, solar panel maintenance is an often-overlooked aspect, yet it is of fundamental importance. Whether it’s a domestic system or a large industrial installation, keeping the panels clean and in good condition ensures optimal performance and prolongs the useful life of the entire system.

In this complete guide, you will discover how to clean solar panels, how often to do it, which tools to use, and why it’s worth relying on professional cleaning systems. All with a practical focus directed toward both individuals and companies.

Why is solar panel maintenance so important?

Impact of dirt on efficiency

Even a thin layer of dust, smog, leaves, or sand can reduce energy production by up to 20–30%. Therefore, cleaning solar panels is an essential activity to avoid wasting the investment made.

System longevity and safety

Proper maintenance reduces the risk of failures, short circuits, and overheating. This means greater safety and a longer useful life for your modules.

How often is cleaning solar panels necessary?

Recommended frequency

For residential systems, a visual inspection is recommended every 6 months and a washing of the solar panels at least once a year. In particularly dusty areas or near the sea, washing solar panels should be more frequent.

Factors that affect frequency

• Geographical area: city, countryside, coast, or mountains;

• Type of dirt: sand, pollen, smog, bird droppings;

• Inclination of the modules: horizontal panels tend to get dirtier;

• Presence of trees or foliage: increases the necessary frequency of cleaning.

How to clean solar panels DIY: methods and useful tips

Cleaning solar panels can be done independently, but with proper precautions:

1. Use only pure water

• Recommended water type: Prefer demineralized or distilled water.

• Why avoid other types: Tap water contains mineral salts that can leave streaks or limescale deposits, compromising glass transparency and thus solar absorption.

2. Gentle tools to avoid damage

• What to use: Microfiber cloths, brushes with soft bristles, or gentle sponges.

• What to avoid: Absolutely avoid abrasive tools or aggressive chemical cleaners that could scratch the surface or damage materials.

3. Choose the right time of day

• When to clean: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal.

• Why: The panels are cooler, and water does not evaporate quickly, reducing the risk of stains or thermal shocks that can damage materials.

4. Pay attention to safety

• In case of sloped or high roofs: Use proper harnesses and anchoring systems.

• Tip: If unsure about safety conditions, it’s always better to rely on a specialized technician.

5. Avoid using pressure washers

• Danger of high pressures: High-pressure jets can compromise the structure of the panels and the connections between photovoltaic cells.

• Preferred method: A gentle, manual wash is much safer.

Professional solar panel cleaning systems

There are numerous professional solar panel cleaning systems for industrial or large systems, such as:

• Autonomous robots for photovoltaic washing;

• Rotating brush systems with filtered water;

• Drones with nozzles for cleaning photovoltaic systems in hard-to-reach areas.

These systems ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the modules.

Washing photovoltaic modules: advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of regular maintenance

• Improved energy efficiency;

• Constant monitoring of performance;

• Damage prevention to components;

• Guaranteed return on investment.
  
  
  

Disadvantages if you neglect cleaning

• Loss of output of 10–25%;

• Stubborn dirt accumulation;

• Risk of damage from humidity, corrosion, and overheating.

FAQ about cleaning solar panels

Is cleaning solar panels mandatory?

No, but it is strongly recommended. Not performing solar panel maintenance poses economic and technical risks.

How often should solar panels be washed?

It depends on the area and type of system, but on average 1–2 times a year.

Can thermal solar panels be cleaned the same way?

Cleaning thermal solar panels requires some extra caution, especially to avoid thermal shocks. It is better to rely on a specialized technician.

What to use for photovoltaic washing?

Demineralized water and non-abrasive tools. Specific products for photovoltaic cleaning are recommended only if approved by the system manufacturer.

A maintenance that makes a difference

Taking care of your system does not just mean increasing energy yield, but also enhancing the investment over time. Solar panel maintenance is simple but must be done thoughtfully, regularly, and, in more complex cases, with professional tools. Whether you are an individual or a company, a correct approach to panel cleaning can make the difference between an efficient system and one working at 70% of its potential. Don’t let dust decide how much you save.