Commercial solar panels and solar farm cleaning is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of the panels and maximising their output. Over time, panels can accumulate dust, pollen, bird droppings, and other debris, which can significantly reduce their ability to generate electricity.  

For solar farm operators and residential solar panel owners alike, establishing a regular cleaning schedule is essential to ensure optimal performance.  Here, we’ll take a look at why it’s necessary to clean your solar panels.  

Why commercial solar panel cleaning is important

Solar panels operate at maximum efficiency when they can absorb the most light. When dirt and debris cover the panels, they block sunlight and can reduce energy production by 5% to 25%, depending on the level of buildup and the type of debris.  

Therefore, keeping solar panels clean is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about performance and efficiency.

Factors influencing commercial solar panel cleaning frequency

Solar panel technology is such that they’re designed to be self-cleaning, which is extremely useful when considering the climate in the UK. Another key factor to take into account with cleaning solar panels is the pitch of the module.  

For example, the steeper the solar panels are, the easier it is for solar panels to clean themselves when it rains. Equally, solar panels that aren’t installed at an angle will need to be cleaned more frequently due to the accumulation of dust and debris.  

One way that we recommend you decide how often your solar panels should be cleaned is to monitor the output of the panels. If they aren’t generating as much energy as usual, consider getting them cleaned. Also, consider cleaning your solar panels before warmer months (April-September).  

We typically recommend one clean per year in most locations. However, in locations such as recycling plants one clean per quarter is generally best due to the increased bird droppings and air pollution in the environment.

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The frequency of cleaning solar panels can vary based on several factors:

• Environment: Panels in dusty areas or places with frequent bird activity may require more frequent cleaning.

• Weather: Regions with regular rainfall may require less frequent cleaning, as rain can naturally wash away some of the surface dirt.

• Angle of installation: Panels installed at steeper angles are less likely to accumulate significant amounts of debris.

• Local pollution levels: Areas with high levels of air pollution may see faster accumulation of particulate matter on panels, so make sure that you clean your panels frequently if you have a building in an are like this.  

Do bird droppings contribute towards the inefficiency of commercial solar panels?

Bird droppings cause more damage than just looking messy. Besides the dirty look of bird droppings on your commercial solar panels, bird droppings also corrode the panel surfaces.  

Also, birds may build nests underneath the solar panels, which may become a safety hazard as they may cause blockages or fires. So, it is important to ensure that any bird droppings or bird nests are cleared from your commercial solar panels to eliminate any hazards.  

Knowing when to clean your commercial solar panels

It may be difficult to know when exactly cleaning your commercial solar panels or solar farm is needed, so we recommend looking out for the following signs:  

• Look out for any visible grime on your solar panels  (this may be difficult to see from the ground, so make sure you’re able to inspect your panels safely)

• Commercial roofers recommend that you inspect your panels during your standard roof walk, which usually takes place every 6  months

• If you have a solar partner, they’ll be able to monitor the efficiency of  your panels and will let you know when the panels need to be cleaned without physically needing to inspect them

Recommended cleaning schedule

Cleaning most commercial solar panels (including solar farm cleaning and industrial solar panel cleaning) usually need to be cleaned on a more regular basis compared to residential solar panels, especially if they’re in areas that are environmentally trickier.  

However, solar panels in areas that are not as dusty, for example, only need to be cleaned once or twice a year. It’s best to monitor your commercial or industrial solar panels so that you know when they need to be cleaned.    

Cleaning methods

Ideal solar panel cleaning tools should consist of water-fed poles equipped with soft brush heads. These brushes are designed to gently clear away dirt and grime without causing scratches on the panel surfaces.  

Also, mechanical rotary brushes are highly effective at removing more tenacious stains, such as seagull guano, ensuring the panels remain in pristine condition.

Solar panel cleaning can be done manually with water and, as mentioned above, with a soft brush or through automated systems like robotic cleaners or sprinkler-like systems. For large solar farm cleaning, specialised cleaning companies can perform the task efficiently and safely, using equipment designed to avoid damaging the panels. There are different ways to clean your solar panels, such as:  

• Manual cleaning with water and mild soap, ensuring that there are no scratches

• Automated systems with robotic systems used to clean panels without being done by humans - this is a more efficient and safer way to clean your solar panels or solar farms

• Professional cleaning services are another option to clean your solar panels with the correct tools and techniques being used  

Cost benefits

While there is a cost associated with cleaning solar panels, the increase in power output following cleaning can provide a quick return on investment. Regular maintenance ensures that solar panels perform at optimal levels, extending their useful life and improving the overall efficiency of the solar power system.

Health and safety

It’s important to emphasise maintaining health and safety when cleaning your commercial solar panels or solar farms. If your commercial solar panels are not ground-mounted, you’ll most likely need to get to the top of your roof to do the cleaning (if you’ve not hired a professional to do it for you).  

Ensure that you’ve completed your risk assessment so that your employees are kept as safe as possible. Use equipment such as safety harnesses, guardrails and other protective equipment so that your technicians can work safely and at ease at such heights.  

Your team members should also be first-aid trained and have extra safety measures in place so that if something goes wrong, they’re able to handle the situation as effectively as possible.  ‍

Training

If you’re looking to hire professionals to clean your commercial solar panels or solar farms, ensure that they’re able to do so efficiently and safely. Ensure that they’re trained and kept up to date with industry standards so that your commercial solar panels are maintained properly and that they are as efficient as possible.  

Regularly cleaning your commercial solar panels is a simple yet effective way to enhance their performance and longevity. By understanding the specific needs of your solar installation and setting up a regular cleaning schedule, you can ensure that your solar panels continue to provide maximum energy output for years to come.

Our team of experts at Sustain Commercial Solar are here for you from start to finish, which means that we also help you maintain your commercial solar panels. Contact us today on 0333 880 0891 for more information on maintaining your solar panels.

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