November 27, 2023
Solar panels represent a significant investment in your property's future, whether you're a homeowner looking to reduce energy bills or a business aiming to meet sustainability targets. However, many people don't realise that the efficiency of their solar installation can dramatically decrease without proper maintenance. At Spectrum External Cleaning, we've seen firsthand how regular professional cleaning can transform underperforming solar systems back into the money-saving powerhouses they were designed to be.
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic cells. When these cells become covered with dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, or other debris, they simply cannot capture and convert as much sunlight. Research consistently shows that dirty solar panels can lose between 15% and 25% of their efficiency, with some heavily soiled installations performing even worse.
In the West Midlands, where we serve areas including Telford, Wolverhampton, Walsall, and Dudley, our variable weather patterns create particular challenges. Whilst rain can help wash away some surface dirt, it often leaves behind mineral deposits and streaks that continue to block sunlight. Industrial areas may also experience higher levels of airborne pollutants that settle on panel surfaces.
To put this into perspective, consider a typical domestic solar installation generating £800 worth of electricity annually. A 20% efficiency loss means you're potentially missing out on £160 per year. For commercial installations, where annual savings might reach £5,000 or more, even a 15% reduction represents hundreds of pounds in lost income.
These figures become even more significant when you consider that solar panels are designed to last 25 years or more. Over their lifetime, poor maintenance could cost thousands in reduced performance – far more than the cost of regular professional cleaning.
Different types of soiling affect solar panels in various ways:
Bird droppings are particularly problematic because they're acidic and can create concentrated shading on individual cells. Even a small amount of bird mess can disproportionately reduce the output of an entire panel.
Dust and pollen build up gradually but create a film that reduces light transmission. This is especially noticeable during spring months when pollen counts are high across the West Midlands.
Industrial pollutants from nearby factories or heavy traffic can create a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and becomes increasingly difficult to remove without professional intervention.
Mineral deposits from dried rainwater leave white spots and streaks that scatter incoming light rather than allowing it to reach the photovoltaic cells effectively.
Whilst it might seem straightforward to clean solar panels yourself, professional cleaning offers several crucial advantages:
Safety first – Solar panels are typically installed on rooftops where working safely requires proper equipment and training. Our team uses appropriate safety measures to protect both our staff and your property.
Proper techniques – Using incorrect cleaning methods or harsh chemicals can damage anti-reflective coatings on panels, permanently reducing their efficiency. Professional cleaners understand how to clean effectively without causing harm.
Complete system inspection – During cleaning, our technicians can identify potential issues such as loose connections, damaged panels, or structural problems that might affect performance.
Appropriate equipment – Professional-grade cleaning equipment ensures thorough removal of all contaminants without scratching or damaging panel surfaces.
At Spectrum External Cleaning, our solar panel cleaning process is designed to maximise efficiency whilst protecting your investment. We use purified water systems that leave no mineral deposits, combined with soft brushes and squeegees specifically designed for solar panel surfaces.
Our technicians are trained to identify the different types of soiling and apply the most effective cleaning methods for each situation. For heavily soiled panels, we may need to use specialised cleaning solutions, but we always ensure these are safe for both the panels and the environment.
The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors including your location, the tilt of your panels, and local environmental conditions. In the West Midlands, we typically recommend:
Domestic installations – Professional cleaning twice per year, ideally in spring and autumn, with additional cleaning if you notice significant soiling or reduced performance.
Commercial installations – Quarterly cleaning is often beneficial due to higher stakes and larger surface areas that can accumulate more debris.
High-pollution areas – More frequent cleaning may be necessary for properties near industrial sites or major transport routes.
However, the best indicator is performance monitoring. If you notice your energy generation dropping compared to previous periods with similar weather conditions, it's time for a professional clean.
Regular cleaning is just one aspect of maintaining optimal solar panel performance. We also recommend annual system inspections to check for physical damage, secure mounting, and proper electrical connections. Many solar panel warranties actually require regular maintenance to remain valid, making professional cleaning a wise investment in protecting your warranty coverage.
For commercial properties, maintaining clean solar panels also demonstrates environmental responsibility to customers, clients, and stakeholders. It shows that your organisation takes its sustainability commitments seriously and maximises the return on its green energy investments.
Beyond the financial advantages, keeping your solar panels operating at peak efficiency maximises their environmental benefits. More efficient panels generate more clean energy, reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering your carbon footprint. This is particularly important for businesses working towards net-zero targets or seeking environmental certifications.
If you haven't had your solar panels professionally cleaned recently, or if you've noticed a decline in their performance, it's time to take action. At Spectrum External Cleaning, we're Safe Contractor approved and serve domestic and commercial customers throughout the West Midlands.
Our experienced team understands the unique challenges facing solar installations in our region and can help restore your panels to optimal performance. Whether you're managing a large commercial array or maintaining panels on your family home, regular professional cleaning is an investment that pays for itself through improved energy generation and extended system life.
Don't let dirty panels rob you of the energy savings you're entitled to. Contact Spectrum External Cleaning today to discuss a maintenance schedule that keeps your solar investment working at its best, year after year.
For professional solar panel cleaning services in Telford, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley, and throughout the West Midlands, contact Spectrum External Cleaning. Our Safe Contractor approved team delivers reliable, efficient cleaning that maximises your solar panel performance and protects your investment.
Contact Spectrum External Cleaning today for a free quote and discover how our professional services can keep your property looking its best year-round.
