Solar Panel Maintenance & Cleaning FAQs

Solar panels need very little looking after. Here are the answers to the questions we're asked most.

Do my solar panels need cleaning?

Usually not. In the UK, regular rain washes off most dust and dirt, especially on panels fitted at an angle. A little dirt makes only a small difference to how much they generate.

They may need cleaning more often if you live near farmland, a busy road, the coast or trees, or if birds sit on the roof a lot.

How often should they be cleaned?

Only when you can see a build-up of dirt, moss or bird droppings that rain isn't shifting. For many homes that's every few years, and some never need it.

Can I clean them myself?

Whoever cleans them should:

• Clean when the panels are cool, such as early morning or evening.
• Use clean water, ideally purified or low in minerals, so it doesn't leave marks.
• Use a soft brush, sponge or cloth.
• Never use a pressure washer, anything abrasive or harsh chemicals.
• Never scrape off dirt when it's dry, as this can scratch the glass.

What about snow and ice?

Leave it. Snow usually slides off on its own as the panels warm in daylight. Don't try to brush or scrape it off, as this can damage the panels and is dangerous. Your system simply generates less until it clears.

What about leaves?

If leaves or moss build up around the edges of the panels or under the mounting rails, ask a professional cleaner or roofer to clear them safely. Don't go up yourself.

Birds nesting under my panels

Pigeons sometimes nest under panels, which can be noisy and messy and can damage cables. Bird mesh fitted around the edges stops this. If you notice birds getting under your panels, contact us and we'll talk you through the options.

Do the panels need servicing?

Panels have no moving parts, so there's nothing to service day to day. The best thing you can do is keep an eye on your generation in your monitoring app. If it drops suddenly and it isn't down to the weather, leave the system as it is and contact us.

Now and then, it's worth looking from the ground for cracked glass, loose cables, new shading from trees or signs of birds.

Should I tell my home insurer?

Yes. Let your home insurer know you have solar panels, and a battery if you have one, so they're covered.

If you have Eurener panels, see Eurener solar panels: warranty and cleaning for their warranty details.