Science & Tech · Science & Environment · 11 hrs ago
Solar panel cleaning can help, but only when the costs and risks make sense
Dust, pollen and bird droppings can build up on solar panels and block some sunlight.
How much this affects power production depends on the location, rainfall, panel angle and type of grime.
Studies cited in the story found that dirt can reduce output, but cleaning does not guarantee a large increase.
In one study, a typical home system would have earned only about $20 more electricity from cleaning during a 145-day dry period.
That means cleaning may not be worth paying for if the energy savings are small or short-lived.
Before cleaning, owners should check their panel maker’s instructions and look for cracks or damage.
Gentle rinsing with clean, low-mineral water and a soft cloth or brush is safer than abrasive tools or pressure washing, which can damage panels.
Dirt, pollen and bird droppings can reduce solar panel output, but the benefit of cleaning depends on conditions.
Cleaning is worthwhile only when the value of extra electricity outweighs the cost and the performance loss lasts long enough.
Soiling accounts for about 4% to 7% of global photovoltaic energy losses, according to the IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme.
Cleaning panels improperly can scratch glass or coatings, leave mineral deposits or cause other damage.
The article recommends checking the manufacturer’s instructions and using gentle methods, such as clean water and a soft cloth or brush.
- Who
- Solar panel owners considering cleaning their panels.
- What
- The article explains when cleaning may help and how to reduce the risk of damage.
- When
- Published on 2026-10-11.
- Where
- Solar panels, including residential rooftop systems; the article also cites research in North Carolina.
- Why
- Dirt can reduce electricity production, but cleaning may not be worth its cost and can damage panels if done badly.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
No direct quotes in the coverage so far.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Global PV energy losses
- Soiling accounts for approximately 4% to 7%, according to the IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme.
- North Carolina pollen study
- Pollen reduced energy production by up to 15% at several solar energy sites.
- Residential system estimate
- Cleaning a typical 5kW system halfway through 145 days without rain or cleaning would have produced about $20 in additional electricity before the drought ended.
- Panel cleaning advice
- Use clean, low-mineral water and a soft sponge, cloth or non-abrasive extension brush.
- Risks
- Abrasive pads, metal scrapers and pressure washing can damage panels.
Sources
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