The Solar Panel Cleaning Process & How Much You Can Save!

March 23, 2025

Aotearoa ~ New Zealand’s sunny climate makes solar panels a smart investment—but only if they’re clean!

Solar Panel Cleaning is a must or no?? Dirty panels can slash energy output by up to 30%, costing homeowners hundreds of dollars annually. In this expanded guide, we’ll dive into the solar panel cleaning process and reveal how much you could save by maintaining your system. Plus, we’ll explain why regular solar panel cleaning is so important.

  

The Solar Panel Cleaning Process: Step-by-Step

Professional cleaning ensures safety, efficiency, and longevity. Here’s how experts get the job done:

   1) Initial Inspection

  • Make sure Solar Panel power is off
  • Technicians check for cracks, loose wiring, bird nests, or debris buildup.
  • Thermal imaging identifies hidden issues like micro-cracks or “hotspots.”

   2) Pre-Rinse with Pure Water

  • Deionized water (filtered to remove minerals) is sprayed to loosen dirt without leaving streaks.
  • This step avoids scratches from dry brushing.

   3) Gentle Scrubbing

  • Soft-bristle brushes remove stubborn grime like bird droppings, salt crust, or volcanic ash.
  • No harsh chemicals are used, protecting panel coatings and warranties.

   4) Pure Water Rinsing

  • High-purity water is rinsed at low pressure to wash away residues.
  • Leaves panels spotless and residue-free—critical for maximising light absorption.

    5) Post-Cleaning Inspection

  • Technicians recheck performance metrics (via inverter data) to confirm efficiency improvements.
  • A final visual inspection ensures no damage occurred during cleaning.

     6) Preventive Maintenance Tips

  • Trim overhanging branches.
  • Install bird deterrents if needed.
  • Install solar water drain clips if needed.

 

Why Professionals?

DIY cleaning risks panel damage, voided warranties, and safety hazards. Professionals use specialized tools, eco-friendly methods, and insurance-backed expertise. Welcome to check more info of how Pure Water Blasting Ltd handles solar panel cleaning. 

 

How Much Can You Save by Cleaning Solar Panels?

Dirty panels silently drain your energy savings. Here’s the math for a typical NZ household:

Example Scenario: Auckland typically receives around 2,000 hours of bright sunshine annually

  • System Size: 5kW (common for NZ homes).
  • Daily Sunlight: 5.4 hours (Auckland average).
  • Energy Loss: 15–30% due to dirt.

Annual Losses if Panels Are Dirty:

  1. Energy Output Loss:
    • Clean system: 5kW x 5.4 hours = 27 kWh/day.
    • Dirty system (20% loss): 27 kWh x 0.7 = 18.9 kWh/day.
    • Daily loss: 8.1 kWh.
  2. Monetary Loss:
    • At NZ’s average power rate (0.30–0.35/kWh):
    • 8.1 kWh x 0.33=∗∗0.33=∗∗2.673 lost daily** → $975/year.

Savings After Cleaning:

  • Restore nearly 100% efficiency → Save up to $975 annually.
  • Larger systems (10kW+) save even more!

Long-Term Savings:

  • Extended Lifespan: Proper cleaning prevents corrosion and degradation, adding 5–10 years to your panels.
  • Avoid Repair Costs: Salt and dirt damage inverters and wiring over time.
  • Higher Resale Value: A well-maintained solar system boosts property appeal.

solar panel clean

When Should You Clean to Maximize Savings?

  • Before Summer: Peak sunlight (October–November) ensures maximum ROI.
  • After Extreme Weather: Storms, volcanic activity, or high winds accelerate grime buildup.

 

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: Key Considerations

Factor

DIY Cleaning

Professional Service

Cost

$0 (but time-consuming)

150–150–300 (depending on system)

Safety

Risk of falls/damage

Insured, certified technicians

Effectiveness

Moderate

Optimal, streak-free results

Warranty Protection

Risk of voiding

Guaranteed compliance

*Pro Tip: For most homeowners, professional cleaning pays for itself within months via energy savings.

Clean Panels = Brighter Savings

In New Zealand, solar panel cleaning isn’t just a chore—it’s a financial strategy. With potential savings of 500–500–1,000+ annually and long-term system protection, regular maintenance is a no-brainer.

At Pure Water Blasting, we make it easy. Our cleaning method is safe for panels, roofs, and the environment. 

 

You are most welcome to view more details regarding our cleaning services on our @youtubechannel, happy to share with you video below how our team member work on solar panel pure water clean. 

References:

 

#SolarPanelCleaning  #SolarMaintenance #RenewableEnergyTips #GreenEnergyHacks  #SolarEfficiency  #CleanEnergy  #SolarLife