Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our solar panel cleaning services
General Questions
Why do solar panels need cleaning?
Solar panels need cleaning because dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, and other debris can reduce their efficiency by up to 30%. Regular cleaning ensures maximum energy production, extends the lifespan of your panels, and helps maintain warranty compliance.
How often should I clean my solar panels?
For most Sydney homes, we recommend professional cleaning 2-4 times per year, depending on your location and local conditions. Coastal properties, areas with heavy tree coverage, or high pollution may require more frequent cleaning.
Doesn't rain clean my solar panels?
While rain can help remove some loose dust, it's not sufficient for proper cleaning. Rain often leaves mineral deposits behind as it dries, and it can't remove stubborn substances like bird droppings, tree sap, or salt spray. Professional cleaning ensures all contaminants are removed without leaving residue.
Can I clean my solar panels myself?
While DIY cleaning is possible, we don't recommend it for several reasons: risk of personal injury from working at heights, potential damage to expensive panels from improper cleaning methods, and often incomplete results that don't fully restore performance. Professional cleaning is safer, more effective, and helps maintain warranty compliance.
Will cleaning really make a difference to my energy production?
Absolutely. Independent studies show that dirty solar panels can lose 15-30% of their efficiency. Our customers typically see a 20-25% increase in energy production after a professional clean, which translates directly to savings on your electricity bill.
Our Services
What cleaning methods do you use?
We use specialized water-fed poles with soft brushes designed specifically for solar panels, combined with purified water systems that leave no residue. Our methods are gentle yet effective, removing all dirt and contaminants without risking damage to your panels.
Do you use chemicals to clean solar panels?
No, we primarily use purified water which is highly effective for most cleaning needs. In rare cases where stubborn contaminants are present, we may use mild, biodegradable, solar-panel-safe cleaning solutions that won't damage your panels or the environment.
How long does a cleaning service take?
A typical residential system (10-20 panels) takes about 1-2 hours to clean thoroughly, inspect, and document. Larger systems or those with difficult access may take longer. Commercial systems are quoted based on size and complexity.
Do I need to be home during the cleaning?
No, you don't need to be present during the cleaning as long as our technicians can safely access your solar panels. We'll coordinate with you beforehand to ensure we have all necessary access information.
What areas do you service?
We service all of Sydney and surrounding suburbs, including the Northern Beaches, North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, Western Sydney, and Sutherland Shire. If you're unsure if we cover your area, please contact us.
Pricing & Booking
How much does solar panel cleaning cost?
Our pricing depends on several factors including the number of panels, roof type, accessibility, and location. We provide free detailed quotes after assessing the job.
Do you offer maintenance plans?
Yes, we offer scheduled maintenance plans that provide regular cleanings at discounted rates. These plans ensure your system stays at peak performance year-round and can be customized to your specific needs and budget.
How quickly can you schedule a cleaning?
We typically can schedule residential cleanings within 1-2 weeks, depending on the season and demand. For urgent needs, we offer priority scheduling when possible.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, direct bank transfers, and cash. For commercial clients, we also offer invoicing options with payment terms.
Do you offer any guarantees?
Yes, we offer a satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with our service, contact us within 7 days and we'll return to address any issues at no additional cost.
Technical Questions
Will cleaning affect my warranty?
Professional cleaning actually helps maintain your warranty. Most solar panel manufacturers require regular cleaning as part of their warranty conditions. Our cleaning methods comply with manufacturer guidelines, and we provide documentation of service that can be used for warranty purposes.
Can cleaning damage my solar panels?
When done properly, cleaning will not damage your panels. Our technicians are trained in solar-safe cleaning techniques and use equipment specifically designed for solar panels. DIY cleaning with improper tools or techniques, however, can potentially cause damage.
Do you also check for other issues with my solar system?
Yes, our service includes a visual inspection of your panels, mounting hardware, and visible wiring. We'll alert you to any potential issues we identify, such as microcracks, hot spots, or loose connections. For more comprehensive inspections, we offer specialized maintenance services.
What is bird proofing and do I need it?
Bird proofing involves installing protective mesh or barriers to prevent birds from nesting under your solar panels. This is recommended if you have birds in your area, as nests can cause fire hazards, damage wiring, and create additional mess. During our cleaning service, we can assess whether bird proofing would benefit your system.
How do you measure the improvement after cleaning?
When possible, we take performance readings before and after cleaning to document the improvement. This can be done through your system's monitoring app or device, or by checking the inverter readings. We include these measurements in our service report.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Contact our team for answers to any other questions you might have about our solar panel cleaning services.