What to Clean Solar Panels With: A Guide to Safe & Effective Materials (Sydney 2025)
Knowing what to clean your solar panels with is just as important as knowing how to clean them. Using the wrong materials can not only be ineffective but could potentially damage your valuable solar investment or even void its warranty. As Sydney’s trusted experts in professional solar panel cleaning, Edgeflow wants to ensure homeowners understand the best practices for materials and tools.
The primary goal is to remove dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, and other residues without scratching the panel surface or leaving behind any film that could hinder sunlight absorption. Remember, solar panels do require cleaning to maintain peak efficiency.
The Ideal Cleaning Agent: Purified Water
For most residential solar panel cleaning, the best “cleaning agent” is often clean, purified water (de-ionised or reverse osmosis water). Here’s why:
- No Residue: Purified water dries without leaving mineral spots or streaks, which can occur with regular tap water (especially in areas with hard water, which some parts of Sydney can experience). These spots can reduce panel efficiency.
- Safe for Panels: It’s gentle and won’t react with the panel’s surface or coatings.
- Environmentally Friendly: No chemicals are introduced into the environment.
Professional services like Edgeflow often use sophisticated water purification systems on their vehicles to ensure the purest water is used.
Cleaning Tools: Softness is Key
The tools you use are critical to avoid scratching the delicate surface of your solar panels:
- Soft Brush: A brush with very soft bristles, specifically designed for solar panel cleaning or car washing, is essential. It should ideally be attached to a long, non-metallic (e.g., fibreglass or carbon fibre) extension pole for reach, especially if attempting to clean from the ground or a very low, safe height.
- Squeegee: A high-quality window squeegee with a soft, pliable rubber blade can be used to remove excess water and ensure a streak-free finish. This is often used in conjunction with purified water.
- Clean, Lint-Free Cloths: Microfiber cloths can be used for spot cleaning or wiping down squeegee blades, but direct wiping of the entire panel surface with cloths is generally less efficient and can risk scratching if debris is trapped.
What About Soaps or Detergents?
In most cases, plain purified water and a soft brush are sufficient. However, if there’s stubborn grime like bird droppings or oily residues:
- Use Sparingly: If you must use a cleaning solution, use a very small amount of mild, biodegradable soap (like a highly diluted dish soap).
- Check Manufacturer Recommendations: Always refer to your solar panel manufacturer’s guidelines. Some explicitly advise against any detergents. Using unapproved chemicals could void your warranty.
- Rinse Thoroughly: If soap is used, it’s absolutely crucial to rinse the panels completely to remove all residue. Soap film can attract more dirt and reduce efficiency.
- Specialised Solar Panel Cleaners: Some companies offer cleaning solutions specifically formulated for solar panels. If considering these, ensure they are approved by your panel manufacturer.
Materials and Chemicals to AVOID When Cleaning Solar Panels:
- Abrasive Cleaners or Powders: These will scratch the panel surface.
- Harsh Chemical Solvents: Degreasers, strong detergents, or petroleum-based cleaners can damage panel coatings or seals.
- Rough Scrub Brushes or Scouring Pads: These will definitely cause scratches.
- High-Pressure Washers (directly on panels): The intense pressure can force water past seals, damage cells, or delaminate panel layers.
- Untreated Tap Water (especially if hard): Can leave damaging mineral deposits.
Understanding how often to clean your panels will also influence your material choices and whether DIY is sustainable.
Why Edgeflow’s Professional Approach is Best for Sydney Homes:
Knowing “what to clean solar panels with” highlights the precision required. Edgeflow professionals in Sydney are equipped with:
- Professional-Grade Water Purification Systems: Ensuring a spot-free, efficient clean.
- Specialised Soft Brushes and Poles: Designed for safe and effective cleaning at height.
- Knowledge of Correct (and minimal) Cleaning Solutions: Used only when absolutely necessary and always panel-safe.
- Safety Equipment and Training: Especially crucial when cleaning panels on roofs.
Conclusion: The Right Materials for Optimal Performance
Cleaning your solar panels with the correct materials is vital for their efficiency and longevity. While plain, purified water and a soft brush are the go-to, the safest and most effective way to ensure your Sydney solar panels are cleaned properly is to use a professional service.
Edgeflow provides expert solar panel cleaning across Sydney, using only the best, panel-safe materials and techniques. As part of our comprehensive exterior cleaning services, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain your property. Contact us today for a free quote and ensure your solar investment is cared for correctly.