Do solar panels need to be cleaned regularly?

Yes, solar panels benefit from regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance. Dust, dirt, bird droppings and salt residue can build up on the surface, reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches the cells. Even a thin layer of grime can lower energy output over time. In coastal areas or locations with high pollution or tree coverage, more frequent cleaning may be needed to keep panels working efficiently.

How much does dirt affect solar panel efficiency?

Dirty solar panels can lose anywhere from 10% to 25% of their efficiency, depending on the level of build-up and environmental conditions. In some cases, heavily soiled panels may experience even greater performance drops. Regular cleaning helps ensure maximum sunlight absorption, which improves energy generation and can lead to better long-term savings on electricity bills.

Can solar panels be cleaned without professional help?

While it is possible to clean solar panels independently, it is not always recommended due to safety risks and the potential for damage. Accessing roof-mounted panels involves working at heights, and using incorrect tools or harsh chemicals can scratch or harm the panel surface. Professional cleaning services use appropriate equipment and techniques to safely remove debris without affecting the system's performance or warranty.

Solar Panel Cleaning in Nowra

Servicing Nowra and surrounding areas

Improves Energy Output
Reduces Performance Loss
Protects Panel Surfaces

Save money through solar panel cleaning.

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0417 496 793

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25% off solar panel cleaning

When booked with a gutter clean.

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Get Your Money's Worth

Owning solar panels is great for the environment as well as your energy bill, but to get the most out of your investment your panels need to be clean. Dust, grime, salt and animal droppings are just a few things that can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your panels and degrade them over time. To stop that happening at your Shoalhaven home, we offer solar panel cleaning in Nowra and the surrounding areas.

While you might think it's easy enough to clean solar panels yourself, it can be dangerous and cause damage to your solar energy system. It's important to know how to achieve a safe and effective clean, for example knowing what temperature the water should be, so you don't crack the glass panels.

Speak with us today for service enquiries. Operating throughout Ulladulla, Huskisson, Nowra, Sussex Inlet, Kiama and surrounds.

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Same solar panels clean and reflective after professional solar panel cleaning

Solar panels covered in bird droppings and lichen before cleaning by Ed's Property Maintenance

BeforeAfter

Ed's Property Maintenance cleaning rooftop solar panels safely in the Shoalhaven

Experienced and Qualified

At Ed's Property Maintenance, we clean solar panels week in, week out. Over time we've established a thorough solar panel cleaning procedure and use the latest equipment to get consistent results. Our cleaning will increase the lifespan of your panels and allow them to soak up more sun, saving you more on your next power bill.

If you want your solar panels to be operating at their full potential and save time, energy and money, then we're here to help. Our fully qualified team offers competitive pricing and pensioners receive a discount. Get in touch today for your free, no-obligation quote on 0417 496 793. We also provide gutter cleaning and property maintenance services.

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Cost of neglect calculator

What are dirty solar panels costing you?

Dust, salt spray, pollen and bird droppings build up on the glass and quietly cut the amount of sunlight reaching your cells. Set your system size and how long it has been since the last clean to see the energy and money you are likely losing.

Your solar system size6.6 kW

1.5 kW20 kW

Years since your last panel clean3 years

1 year10 years

Likely lost energy value

$1,164

That is roughly 3,326 kWh of generation you paid for but never used. Regular cleaning over the same period costs about $750, a difference of around $414.

Get a free solar cleaning quote 0417 496 793

Lost output, year by year

Soiling losses compound as build-up hardens on the glass, so each year without a clean costs more than the last.

Year 16% output loss
$194
Year 212% output loss
$388
Year 318% output loss
$582

Coastal panels soil faster

Salt spray along the Shoalhaven coast bonds dust to the glass and can etch the surface over time. Panels near trees, unsealed roads or farmland also collect pollen and dust far quicker than the averages used here.

Estimates only. Based on an average yield of 1,400 kWh per kW each year in the Shoalhaven, an electricity rate of 35c per kWh, and published soiling loss research showing uncleaned panels losing roughly 6% output per year, up to about 25%. Your actual figures depend on your tariff, roof pitch, tilt, shading and local conditions. We are happy to give you an exact quote after an inspection.

Solar panel cleaning in the Shoalhaven by Ed's Property Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

Every suburb we service

We travel right across the Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay. If your street is not listed, give us a call and we will let you know.