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Illustrative image - How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Efficiently

How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Efficiently

Published on 6 January 2023 by Catarina Costa

  • Solar PV
  • Energy Efficiency

Solar panels require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure performance and longevity.

A dirty panel can lose a significant part of its efficiency, directly affecting energy production.

Do panels really need cleaning?

Yes. Dust, pollen, leaves, tree sap, bird droppings and sand prevent sunlight from fully reaching the photovoltaic cells.

How do you know if cleaning is needed?

Even when panels appear clean, they accumulate invisible microparticles. A simple white cloth test can indicate whether dirt has built up.

How much efficiency is lost?

A light dirt layer can reduce efficiency by 10% to 15%. In severe cases, losses can reach 50%.

Does rain clean panels?

Rain removes part of the surface dust, but it does not replace proper cleaning. It can leave stains and residues that attract more dirt.

Enbiente recommends annual cleaning in areas with low pollution and moderate climate, or every six months in places with dust, sea salt or high pollution.

Products and methods

Use certified, non-abrasive products. Avoid household detergents, high-pressure jets and tools that could scratch the surface.

Enbiente provides specialised maintenance and cleaning services to ensure safety, performance and durability.