It may seem convenient, but using ordinary tap water to wash solar panels can cause hidden problems. Tap water often contains dissolved minerals and salts which leave behind streaks and deposits when they dry on the glass. These residues scatter sunlight and…

Soft washing is a gentle cleaning technique ideal for solar panels. Unlike high-pressure washing, soft washing uses low-pressure water and biodegradable cleaning solutions to remove grime, algae and organic growthsoftwashdoctors.com. The key is to clean effectively without risking damage to the panel…

For homeowners, cleaning and maintenance often overlap but mean different things. Cleaning specifically refers to removing dirt, dust, leaves or droppings from the panel surfaces to allow maximum sunlight absorptionenphase.com. It is done periodically (typically annually) and is the most common upkeep for solar systems. Maintenance,…

Leaving solar panels uncleaned can have serious downsides. Dirt, dust and debris accumulate, blocking sunlight and reducing power generation. Studies indicate soiling losses can be substantial: NREL reports up to ~7% annual loss in some regionsnrel.gov, and other research shows…

For UK homeowners, selecting the right moment to clean solar panels can improve results. Experts generally recommend spring or early summer as ideal seasons. After winter storms and pollen season, panels often have accumulated dirt, so a thorough spring clean boosts summer…

The UK’s temperate, maritime climate brings both benefits and cleaning challenges for solar panels. Frequent rain means panels often get rinsed, but it also leaves streaks and mineral deposits. More importantly, weather events and seasons introduce unique dirt sources: Image: Solar panels partially…

Home insurance in the UK generally does not cover routine cleaning or maintenance of solar panels. Standard home or building insurance may protect panels against hazards (theft, fire, storm damage), but it won’t pay for hiring a cleaner. Cleaning is considered a…

It might be tempting to save money by cleaning your solar panels yourself, but DIY cleaning carries risks. The Energy Saving Trust advises that if panels are on a high or steep roof, homeowners should hire professionals rather than attempt…

The cost to clean solar panels varies by system size and site specifics. On average, UK homeowners pay around £150 for a full residential cleaning servicemyjobquote.co.uk. Industry sources agree: Checkatrade notes a typical rate of about £4–£15 per panelcheckatrade.com, while the Energy Saving…

Choosing the right company to clean your solar panels is crucial. A good cleaner should have specific training and proper insurance, ensuring a safe and effective service. Here are key signs of a professional provider: Image: Technician in safety gear working…