How to Keep Your Solar Panels Performing Year-Round

Solar energy is a smart investment. But like anything exposed to the outdoors, solar panels need upkeep. If you live in Sacramento, El Dorado, San Joaquin, or Solano County, you deal with dust, pollen, bird droppings, and wildfire ash. These can all reduce your system’s performance.

This article explains how solar panel cleaning works, when to do it, and what to avoid. Whether you own a home or manage a commercial property, clean panels mean better energy output and a longer system life.

Why Dirty Panels Lose Efficiency

Even a light layer of grime blocks sunlight. That means your system works harder and produces less power.

What causes buildup:

• Dust and pollen in dry seasons
• Bird droppings, especially in open or rural areas
• Leaves and organic debris in fall and winter
• Soot and ash after fire events
• Hard water spots from rain or sprinklers

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, dirty panels can lose 6% to 20% of their output. That adds up over time.

How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?

There isn’t one schedule that fits every property. Local climate and panel tilt both matter.

Use these general guidelines:

• Every 6 months if you live in a dusty or wildfire-prone zone
• Once a year for moderate environments
• After any major storm or fire season
• Whenever you notice a drop in production

Modern systems with monitoring tools make this easier. If your system performance dips but weather and usage haven’t changed, grime may be the cause.

Should You Clean Solar Panels Yourself?

Some people do it themselves. But there are risks. Solar panels are often high up and slippery when wet.

What to consider:

• Roof safety. Never climb on a roof without proper gear.
• Proper tools. Harsh cleaners or brushes can damage panel coatings.
• Water pressure. High-pressure washers can crack or loosen mounts.
• Electrical hazards. Panels still carry voltage even when off.

Unless your panels are on a low, flat surface and you have experience, it’s smarter to hire pros.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

Professional technicians use safe, non-abrasive methods. Many companies use deionized water systems to avoid spotting. They also inspect for wear or damage.

Local solar cleaning companies know your conditions. If you’re in a windy part of Solano County or near orchards in San Joaquin, they’ll account for that.

A trusted solar maintenance company like Clean Array has experience with both residential and commercial systems throughout the Sacramento region. Their crews follow safety protocols and use panel-friendly tools to protect your investment.

Signs Your Solar Panels Need Cleaning

If you don’t have monitoring software, you’ll have to rely on observation.

Watch for:

• Noticeable drop in your monthly energy output
• Dirty streaks or bird droppings visible from the ground
• Rain not clearing surface grime
• Inconsistent inverter readings

These signs mean it’s time to schedule service.

Best Times of Year to Clean

Spring and fall are the most popular times. Spring removes winter debris. Fall prepares your system for low-sunlight months.

Avoid cleaning during peak sunlight hours. Panels heat up fast. Early morning or late afternoon is safer and more effective.

If your building is in an industrial zone, or near trees that drop sap or pollen, you might need quarterly service.

Commercial Solar Cleaning Considerations

Larger systems on commercial buildings or solar farms have different needs. Output drops are more costly. Schedules tend to be stricter.

Make sure your service provider has:

• Insurance and safety certifications
• Commercial-grade equipment
• Experience with multi-array systems
• Local knowledge

A firm like Clean Array offers commercial solar cleaning tailored to site-specific challenges in counties like Sacramento and San Joaquin.

How to Choose the Right Solar Cleaning Company

Don’t pick a provider based on price alone. Cheap jobs often skip safety or use the wrong tools.

Look for:

• Local experience
• Proof of insurance
• Clear service agreements
• Online reviews
• Diamond Certified status

Clean Array is a vetted provider with a solid reputation. Their team services residential rooftops, schools, farms, and corporate facilities.

Preventive Tips to Reduce Buildup

While you can’t eliminate all grime, these steps help:

• Trim trees near your array
• Angle sprinkler systems away from panels
• Check gutters and drainage near roof mounts
• Schedule regular inspections with a solar professional

Conclusion

Solar panels are durable, but not maintenance-free. If you’re in Sacramento, El Dorado, San Joaquin, or Solano County, local weather can take a toll on performance.

Staying on top of cleaning keeps your system working harder for longer. For most homeowners and property managers, working with a certified local provider like Clean Array is the simplest way to get consistent results.

Don’t wait for your power bill to spike. Keep your panels clean, safe, and producing strong year-round.