Your panels are working hard, but are they working at full capacity? Dirt, pollen, and bird droppings can cut your energy production by up to 25%.
You invested in solar panels to save money on electricity. But here's what most homeowners don't realize: dirty panels produce less power. Sometimes significantly less.
Research shows that soiled panels can lose anywhere from 15% to 25% of their output. In the Charlotte area, we have the perfect storm for panel buildup. Heavy pollen seasons coat everything yellow in spring. Summer thunderstorms leave behind mineral deposits when the water evaporates. Trees drop sap and debris. And birds seem to treat solar panels like targets.
Rain helps, but it doesn't actually clean your panels. It just spreads the grime around and leaves water spots when it dries. Think about your car windshield after a rain shower. Same thing happens on your roof.
The same pure water technology we use for windows
We check your panel layout, roof pitch, and access points. Some systems we can reach entirely from the ground with our water-fed poles. Others need roof access. We figure out the safest, most efficient approach.
We use deionized water that's had all minerals stripped out. This water actually cleans better than tap water and dries without leaving spots or residue. No chemicals, no soaps, nothing that could harm your panels or void your warranty.
Our brushes are designed specifically for solar panels and glass. They agitate the dirt and bird droppings without scratching the surface. The combination of pure water and soft bristles lifts everything off safely.
A final rinse with pure water, and the panels dry spot-free on their own. No wiping needed, no residue left behind. Just clean glass ready to soak up maximum sunlight.
Tap water is full of minerals that leave deposits when it evaporates. Over time, these spots build up and become harder to remove. Our deionized water leaves nothing behind.
Most panel manufacturers specify no harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning. Our pure water and soft brush approach meets those requirements. Some warranties actually require regular professional cleaning.
Climbing on your roof with a garden hose is asking for trouble. We have the equipment and training to work safely, whether from the ground with extended poles or with proper fall protection on the roof.
Every bit of grime on your panels is blocking sunlight. After cleaning, most homeowners notice their system performing noticeably better. That's money back in your pocket each month.
The short answer: at least once a year. But your situation might call for more frequent cleaning.
Annual cleaning works for most homes. If your panels are relatively exposed with minimal tree cover, yearly service keeps them performing well.
Twice a year makes sense if:
Clean right away after:
For most homes in the Charlotte area, annual cleaning is sufficient. If you have lots of trees nearby, live on a dusty road, or notice heavy pollen buildup in spring, you might benefit from cleaning twice a year. After nearby construction, cleaning sooner is a good idea since concrete dust and debris can really coat your panels.
Yes. Studies show dirty panels can lose 15-25% of their efficiency. The buildup of pollen, bird droppings, dust, and tree sap blocks sunlight from reaching the solar cells. After a professional cleaning, most homeowners see a noticeable bump in their energy production, especially if the panels haven't been cleaned in a while.
We don't walk on your panels and minimize roof contact. We use water-fed poles from the ground or from safe positions on the roof edge. This protects both your panels and your roofing materials. For steep or difficult roofs, we have safety equipment and techniques to get the job done without putting your system at risk.
We use deionized pure water and soft brushes. That's it. The water has all minerals removed, so it dries completely spot-free without leaving residue. No soaps, no chemicals, nothing that could leave a film on your panels or cause issues with your warranty. It's the same system we use for window cleaning.
Our method actually supports most warranty requirements. Many manufacturers recommend regular cleaning and specify that no harsh chemicals be used. Our pure water system with soft brushes meets those guidelines. We can work with your solar installer's specific recommendations if you have them.
Technically yes, but there are real risks. Tap water leaves mineral deposits that can build up over time. Household cleaners may void your warranty or damage panel coatings. And climbing on your roof with a hose creates fall hazards. Professional cleaning with pure water and proper equipment is safer and more effective.
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Prefer to talk? Call 704-266-0795