Professional Solar Panel Cleaning vs DIY: What's Best for You?

Melbourne is famous for its four-seasons-in-a-day weather. One moment it's sunny, and the next, you're dodging rain. But for solar panel owners, this means at least one opportunity every day for their panels to soak up some sun. To make the most of this, keeping your panels clean and knowing how to maintain solar panel efficiency is essential.

Of course, when it comes to cleaning them, there's an obvious question: should you tackle the job yourself or leave it to the professionals? Let's settle the debate with a closer look.

Why Solar Panel Cleaning Matters

Dust, dirt, bird droppings, and other debris accumulating on your solar panels reduce their efficiency by blocking sunlight. By regularly cleaning your solar panel you can maintain peak performance, maximise energy production, and extend their lifespan so you get a better return on your investment. Clean panels can see up to a 50% jump in efficiency compared to dirty ones, making cleaning crucial for getting the most out of your solar power.

If you don't clean your solar panels regularly, dirt build up means your panels will receive uneven sunlight across the surface. This can cause concentrated overheating in particular areas and create a hotspot. A hotspot not only reduces the panel's efficiency, but it can potentially cause damage by burning the photovoltaic cells beyond repair. Poor maintenance can void warranties if keeping them clean is a condition of your agreement. Whether your system is on your roof or in a ground-mounted setup, regular cleaning is critical to ensure consistent energy output and longevity.

Can You Clean Your Solar Panels Yourself?

Yes, just like with roof cleaning, you can clean solar panels yourself. Many homeowners take this route to save money and handle minor upkeep. However, DIY cleaning comes with certain risks and challenges that you need to think about. It's not a simple matter of jumping up on the roof with a mop and bucket -- you need to understand the process and know your system before you can clean it properly.

The Pros And Cons Of DIY Solar Panel Cleaning

Pros

• Cost Savings: Cleaning your panels yourself eliminates the cost of hiring professionals, which can be great if you're on a tight budget. DIY cleaning is one of the simplest solar panel maintenance tips, especially if your panels are easily accessible and only need light cleaning.

• Flexibility: DIY cleaning allows you to use your preferred solutions and methods. For example, if sustainability is important to you, you could use environmentally friendly products.

• Satisfaction: There's a sense of accomplishment in maintaining your property yourself. Knowing you've contributed to the upkeep of your investment can be more rewarding than hiring someone else to get their hands dirty.

Cons

• Safety Risks: Climbing onto your roof can be dangerous without proper equipment and training. Falls from heights are a significant risk when cleaning rooftop panels.

• Improper Cleaning: Using the wrong tools or methods can scratch or damage your panels, reducing their efficiency or voiding warranties. For example, abrasive brushes can harm the glass surface.

• Time-Consuming: Cleaning panels thoroughly takes time, especially if they're hard to access. It can also be hard to find the right cleaning products, as they're not readily available at your local supermarket.

• Limited Effectiveness: DIY methods might not remove tough stains, built-up grime, or mineral deposits as effectively as professional cleaning. Plus using water from your garden hose will leave mineral deposits on the panels blocking light and reducing efficiency.

• Potential Water Waste: Without the right equipment, you may end up using more water than necessary, which can undermine the green benefits of solar energy.

Professional Solar Panel Cleaning

Professional solar panel cleaning has plenty of perks. Experts will use the right tools to tackle tough grime without damaging your panels and can safely handle hard-to-reach spots. They'll have your panels working at their best, saving you time and boosting energy efficiency -- it's a hassle-free way to protect your investment.

Pros

• Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to clean panels safely and effectively, without causing any damage to your system or roof.

• Specialised Equipment: They use tools and solutions designed specifically for solar panels, ensuring a thorough clean without damage.

• Time-Saving: Hiring professionals frees up your time for other things, making it very convenient if you've got a busy schedule.

• Safety: Professionals operate with strict safety protocols, minimising the risk of accidents and liability issues. They also have appropriate insurance in case something goes wrong.

• Efficiency Boost: Professional cleaning often results in a greater improvement in panel efficiency, so your system will continue to operate at optimal levels.

• Regular Maintenance Plans: Many companies offer maintenance plans, so your panels are cleaned and inspected periodically for consistent performance.

Cons

• Cost: Professional services come with a price tag, which can be higher for larger or harder-to-reach installations. However, the investment often pays off in improved efficiency.

• Scheduling: You may need to work around the service provider's schedule, which might not necessarily align with yours -- especially if they're particularly busy and book out in advance.

• Dependent on External Help: You might prefer to handle maintenance yourself rather than rely on an external provider.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between DIY and professional solar panel cleaning depends on your budget, skills, and priorities. The table below give you a quick comparison at a glance to help you decide.

Need Professional Solar Panel Cleaning For Your Melbourne Home? 

Maintaining your solar panels is vital for ensuring maximum efficiency and protecting your investment. While DIY cleaning may work out for some people, the benefits of professional services often outweigh the costs, especially if you have hard-to-reach or heavily soiled panels. If you want a reliable team to handle your solar panel cleaning needs, Bayside Roof Cleaning has you covered.

Don't let dirt, grime and debris reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Contact us today for professional solar panel cleaning services that you can rely on. Reach out here to request a free, fixed-price quote and see the difference a clean set of panels can make!