Cleaning and Maintaining Solar Panels

Solar panels are designed to be low maintenance and generally do not require regular cleaning or servicing. In Ireland, rainfall often provides enough natural cleaning to keep panels operating efficiently.

Over time, dust, pollen, or bird droppings can build up, particularly in dry periods or in rural or coastal areas. In most cases, this build-up has only a minor impact on performance and does not require immediate action.

If cleaning is needed, it should be done carefully. Panels can usually be cleaned with clean water and a soft brush or cloth. Abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or pressure washers should be avoided, as they can damage the surface of the panels or seals.

Safety is the most important consideration. Panels are often installed on roofs, and accessing them can be dangerous. If panels are difficult to reach or if roof access is required, professional cleaning is recommended rather than attempting it yourself.

Solar systems do not have moving parts, so there is no routine servicing required. Visual checks from ground level are usually sufficient. If you notice visible damage, loose cabling, or a sudden drop in performance that does not recover, further inspection may be needed.

In normal conditions, solar panels continue to operate reliably for many years with little more than occasional observation.