Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panel Cleaning & General Cleaning Services

Solar Panel manufacturers recommend cleaning and maintenance on a regular basis to improve the electrical output of your Solar Panels, maximise the life of your Solar System and reduce the risk of breaching manufacturer and installation warranties.

Just like the windows of our home and the surface of our cars, we need to keep the surface of our Solar Panels clean and free from residue/soiling for their longevity. We have helped a lot of customers save money on their electricity bills, as their heavily soiled panels were not working to their full efficiency prior to a professional Solar Panel Clean. 

It all depends on your individual location, but generally once to twice a year is sufficient to ensure that panels are performing at their optimum.

In the South East of SA and Western Victoria, surrounded by pine forests; pollen is a large contributor to heavy soiling in the Spring. Rain will not remove the pollen and we have a lot of properties in our area that need professional Solar Panel cleaning at this time. If you are in an area with a lot of trees (sap and debris), birds (bird droppings or nesting under the panels), or you reside near the coast (sea salt build up) your panels may need cleaning more regularly. We can advise on a cleaning schedule on an individual basis when we come to your site. 

We will also contact you prior to your next scheduled Clean & Inspection to see if you would like to book in your next clean, making it as easy as possible for you to keep your Solar System in tip top condition. 

Your Solar Panel Clean & Inspection will include:

• Panels are cleaned with purified, de-ionised water using industry specific equipment

• Removal of moss, lichen, mould, pollen, bird droppings, sap, sea salt and any other debris on your Solar Panels and their framework. 

• Inspection of Solar Panel cell condition and reporting of any damage

• Inspection of cabling, DC isolator, racking system and fittings and reporting of any issues

• Energy analysis and report to show efficiency improvements at your next scheduled clean

If you are able to reduce the risk of falling from your roof or ladder, damaging the protective coating of your solar panels or leaving a calcium build-up by using tap water, then yes, you can attempt to clean your own Solar Panels.  The professional Solar Care Technicians at Elevate have the experience, training and equipment to safely work at heights and clean your solar panels to a superior finish, ready for them to harness as much energy as possible. 

We are also trained to find any anomalies in your Solar System, including but not limited to - lose wiring, broken or damaged panels, earthing problems and potential fire hazards. Any risks or issues will be reported to you at the time of the clean, and we can assist with arranging an electrician to fix any issues if required. 

Rain may wash some residue from your Solar Panels during a period of rain, like it would on your car - but it will not remove mould, lichen, droppings, sap, pollen, pollution and ocean salt. 

Quite often after rain passes, cars end up even dirtier than they started out - it is much the same for your Solar Panels. When Solar Panels are professionally cleaned and free from soiling, there is less likely to be a build up of residue. Regular cleaning will ensure your Solar Panels are working to their greatest efficiency. 

It will actually help to maintain your warranty, as most manufacturers recommend regular cleaning and inspections.

Yes we can clean your Solar Hot Water Panels and external Skylights. We also offer a professional Window and Gutter Cleaning service if you would like to tick another maintenance job off your To-Do list while we are there!