Cleaning Solar Panels

hollie.weimeraner

My panels are coming up to 3 years old now and I noticed bird muck on them earlier this week. Overnight rain cleared it all but I have noticed what appears to be green algae around the edges (not on the glass itself) and I'm just wondering what everyone else does about cleaning their panels and how often they do it.
I would have to get a cleaning company in to clean them if I get them cleaned.

The_Green_Hornet

I have had my panels for nearly eight years and I haven't cleaned them once.

greyteam1959

I have also had solar panels for nearly 10 years now & never had them cleaned.
I have also had wheelie bin for 15 years & never had that cleaned either !!

pinnks

Mine are 5 years old and I have cleaned them a couple of times while up the ladder anyway.

Trouble is the distance from top of ladder working height to top of top panels is about 4m. Most of the green stuff is at the bottom of each panel and wipes off easily. In reality this is more about cosmetics than performance. A bit like cleaning the can doesn't save fuel or make it go faster...

If you're happy up a ladder go for it but use rain water not tap water to avoid residue remaining on the panels. if you're not, just leave them.:beer: