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Cleaning Solar Panels

Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
in Problem solving
Our ten year or so old panels are now encrusted with a thickish deposit (we have trees nearby ) and need cleaning. I think the deposits are too baked on to just try to wash off. Has anybody had this done professionally and if so, who did it and what method did they use? We cannot do it ourselves. An idea of the likely cost would be much appreciated. I presume we will have to have scaffolding erect for safety reasons, although it's only one storey in the front.

Our provider has ceased trading because of ill-health.

Many thanks for any suggestions.
North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
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  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    A flyer came with my post earlier this week from a window-cleaning company and cleaning solar panels was one of the extra services offered, so maybe see if others near you do it too.
    My windows have been very thoroughly washed by the last 3 days rainfall :)
  • tui34tui34 Posts: 3,493
    edited October 2021
    We have solar panels - and my OH cleans them regularly - about 3 or 4 times a year with a long brush and the hose.  No detergent or any cleaning products as this can leave a film on them.  Just water.  He climbs onto the roof to do this.

    I think once you have got them cleaned up, (you will produce more energy) it may be a good idea to get someone to do maintenance cleaning at least twice a year.  A student can do this easily.
    A good hoeing is worth two waterings.

  • Nanny BeachNanny Beach Posts: 8,719
    I need to pick your brains especially Lizzie,we have got a quote today in fact! Via our council who did a bid. Have you had them 10 years, give me pros and cons,do they save you money?
  • pr1mr0sepr1mr0se Posts: 1,193
    Our window cleaner offers this extra service.  He uses filtered water and  a long brush, so no residue on either windows or solar panel.
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    @tui34, I believe in the UK there are rules on safety at heights if you are employing somebody to do work of the roof, it's okay if you do it yourself (although still could be dangerous.
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    Thanks for all the advice. Much appreciated. I'll try to find a window cleaner to clean the panels with a long brush.
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • NorthernJoeNorthernJoe Posts: 660
    Nanny Beach said:
    I need to pick your brains especially Lizzie,we have got a quote today in fact! Via our council who did a bid. Have you had them 10 years, give me pros and cons,do they save you money?
    Quote for cleaning or for solar panel installation? 

    If the latter we bought a house with them installed in 2014. We moved in early March and British Gas still haven't started paying the FiT payments. It's a real pain getting it transferred to us. We'll get it all paid eventually and because it was installed under the earlier rules I believe we get paid for half of its generation capability whether we use over half or less than half. No idea about how good that is though or the current system. 

    One thing we noticed in the summer was that our smart meter showed only the standing charge first thing in the morning then no increase until about 9 or 10pm. That's despite using electricity in the house.  Basically during the day free electricity. We wouldn't put it in as we probably have more things to sort out before solar cells but moving in to a house with them I can see they're pretty good if the payment scheme is worth it.  As with new things supported by the state there's a good system with early adopters with later schemes giving less as the state can't afford it or too many taking it up. 
  • philippasmith2philippasmith2 Posts: 3,742
    I think the OP was asking about Solar Panels as opposed to Solar Lights. 
    If you are simply quoting from a Web Site,  perhaps ensure the info is relevant prior to posting.

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Usually has links to various sites in his posts @philippasmith2. 
    Repeat offender.  :/
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • philippasmith2philippasmith2 Posts: 3,742
    Thanks @Fairygirl . I'll have to check that out - as he seems keen on Tidying Up, he could have full reign in my cellar as I'm getting a bit fed up with it :D 
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