Cleaning and Looking After Solar Panels

Rain cleans most tilted panels well enough. Dusty areas, low tilt, bird droppings and leaves are where cleaning pays off.

1. When to clean

• Visible dirt, droppings or leaves.
• Output dropping compared with similar sunny days.
• After dust storms or nearby earthworks.

2. How to clean

• Clean early morning or late afternoon when panels are cool.
• Use clean water and a soft brush or sponge. Check the panel maker's instructions.
• Don't use pressure washers, harsh chemicals or abrasive pads.
• Don't stand on panels.

3. Safety

Roof work is dangerous. Use a long-handled brush from the ground or a ladder with someone helping, or hire a cleaner with fall protection. Never touch damaged panels or cables. They can be live in daylight.

4. Simple checks

• Look for cracked glass, scorch marks or loose cables.
• Check the inverter display or app for faults.
• Keep trees trimmed.

5. Quick summary

• Clean when dirty, gently, when cool.
• Stay safe off the roof.
• Report damage to your installer.

In Australia, any work on 240V AC wiring, including connecting an inverter, battery or solar system to a switchboard or fixed wiring, must be done by a licensed electrician.

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