5 Signs Your Solar Panels Need Cleaning

Solar panels are a fantastic investment—they save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your property. But just like your windows or your car, they need a little TLC to keep performing at their best.

Whether you're a homeowner or manage a commercial property, keeping your solar panels clean is essential for efficiency. Here are five clear signs it's time to book a professional clean:

1. Your Power Bill Has Gone Up

One of the first things people notice is a spike in their electricity bill. If your solar panels aren't producing as much power as they used to—and there's no change in weather, usage, or system hardware—it might be because they're covered in dirt, dust, or bird droppings. A professional clean can help restore their full performance.

2. You Can See Visible Dirt or Debris

It might sound obvious, but if you can see grime on your panels from the ground, chances are they're well overdue for a clean. Leaves, pollen, salt spray (especially near the coast), and even air pollution can create a film that blocks sunlight. A layer of dust can reduce efficiency by up to 30%—and even more if there are concentrated spots of grime.

3. You're Near Construction, Trees, or High-Traffic Areas

Homes or buildings near construction sites, major roads, or industrial areas tend to get dirty faster. Dust, smoke, and airborne particles settle on your panels without you even noticing. Similarly, if your panels are under or near trees, sap, leaves, and bird mess can pile up quickly. More debris = less sunlight = lower output.

4. It's Been 6+ Months Since Your Last Clean

Even in ideal conditions, solar panels should be professionally cleaned every 6 to 12 months. It's easy to forget—they're up on the roof and out of sight. But like changing your car's oil or servicing your air conditioning, regular cleaning is part of routine maintenance that pays off in performance and lifespan.

5. You're Noticing Patchy Shading or Hot Spots

If you're using a monitoring system and notice specific panels underperforming, or your installer has mentioned "hot spots," dirt could be the culprit. Uneven buildup of grime causes uneven sunlight absorption, which leads to inconsistent output and can even damage the panel over time.

Why DIY Isn't Always Enough

Sure, you could climb up there with a hose and a sponge—but it's risky and might void your warranty. Professional solar panel cleaners (like us!) use the right equipment, purified water systems, and techniques that are safe, fast, and effective.