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Do I Really Need To Get My Solar Cleaned If It Rains Often?

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Living in the Sunshine State, we receive our fair share of rain. We are often asked whether it’s necessary to have solar panels cleaned, because doesn’t the rain wash the panels?

If you’re wondering about this, you’re not alone, and today our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains why, yes, you still need to get your solar system cleaned, even if it’s rained on frequently.

The Role of Rain in Solar Panel Maintenance

While it is true that rain can help wash away some of the dirt and debris that your solar panels accumulate, it doesn’t do the best job of keeping them clean.

Here’s why:

Dust and Grime Build-Up

Dust and grime accumulate on your panels over time, and while a good rainstorm can remove some of it, there is often residue that is left over that can affect efficiency.

Pollutants and Bird Droppings

Rain alone cannot clean off pollution residue or bird droppings. These need to be removed with a thorough cleaning to ensure the energy output of your solar system is not impacted.

Mineral Deposits

Though we get a lot of rain here in Central Florida, it can leave behind mineral deposits on solar panels as it dries and evaporates. This can also impact your panel’s efficiency if not addressed.

What Should You Do?

To keep your solar panels producing at their best, consider these tips:

  • Complete Regular Inspections: Even if it rains regularly, like it does here in the summer months, we recommend scheduling regular solar panel inspections to check the efficiency of your solar panels.
  • Schedule Professional Cleaning: Professional cleaning will ensure that your panels are spotless without the risk of damage that can occur if you DIY it.
  • Monitor the System: Keep an eye on your system’s energy output. If you notice a drop in efficiency, it may be time for a cleaning, regardless if your area has received recent rainfall.

How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?

Generally, our team at Solar Bear Orlando recommends that your solar panels be cleaned at least once or twice a year.

That said, if you live near a construction site or an area with a lot of dust or pollen, your panels may need to be cleaned more often.

Also, if you have trees around your home, the leaves, branches, and bird droppings may necessitate more frequent cleaning.

If you notice a layer of dust or dirt, or even hard water spots on your panels, or if you notice that your panel’s output is not what it should be, it is a good sign that they need to be cleaned.

Read More > Weather & Solar Panel Performance

So Fresh & So Clean

While rain can help remove some dirt from your solar panels, it is not really sufficient to maintain optimal efficiency for your system. Periodic professional cleaning and inspections are important to ensure that your system operates at its best, regardless of the weather.

Have questions? That’s what we are here for. Contact our team at Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 353-3886 for any solar panel installation or maintenance questions that you may have.

Stay sunny, Central Florida!