Quick answer: In Ohio and across the Midwest, solar panels do not require frequent cleaning. Clean solar panels when you see visible buildup (dust, pollen, bird droppings, or soot). Use soft water, a hose with gentle flow, non‑abrasive brush/mop, and mild, pH‑neutral soap—avoid pressure washers and harsh chemicals. Clean in the early morning or evening, prioritize safety, and consider hiring a pro for steep roofs or stubborn grime. In much of Ohio, cleaning isn’t a requirement, but it varies by site conditions.

What we cover in this article:

• Why clean solar panels?
• When to clean
• How to clean
• Safety first: Tips for ensuring safe cleaning
• Answers to all your questions about solar panel cleaning.

Why Clean Solar Panels?

The short answer is: dirty panels can reduce your system’s efficiency and, consequently, your energy savings.

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, dust, dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and other debris can reduce energy output by 15%. However, these statistics come from research done in North Carolina during peak pollen season. In Ohio we find that production losses are far less significant

What’s important to know is that energy production can be affected by dirt, debris and pollen and keeping an eye on efficiency will help you save money in the long run.

Quick rule: If your monitoring app shows a persistent drop in production vs. Historical, and conditions haven’t changed, check for soiling.

When to Clean

Types of Contaminants:

• Pollen (spring–early summer): can be heavy in the Midwest, especially if you’re surrounded by trees; can create a sticky film that rinses poorly when baked on
• Dust: can be common near roads, farms, and development
• Bird droppings: Highly localized but can have a high impact
• Leaves & organic litter: Areas covered by trees can collect debris and trapped moisture can encourage mildew

Factors Impacting Cleaning Frequency

• Site setting: Urban (soot, construction dust), suburban (pollen, landscaping), rural (ag dust, pollen)
• Roof tilt & layout: Low-tilt or horizontal panels collect more buildup and drain less effectively
• Nearby trees: Shade + sap + birds
• Weather & seasons: Spring pollen, summer dry spells (dust), lake-effect or winter storms (snow)

Signs Your Panels Need Cleaning

• Visible film, spots, or streaks that don’t rinse off with a light rain
• Monitoring data: Sustained underperformance vs. historical averages for the same month
• Inverter/app alerts or flagged strings showing lower output than neighboring systems
• Local shading patterns shifting due to debris accumulation near frames

Environmental & Regional Considerations (Ohio, Urban vs. Rural)

In the Ohio climate, not all solar energy systems will need regular cleaning. Often the rain alone will be enough. However, your environment or region may impact this

The Ohio climate sees freeze–thaw cycles, spring pollen, and winter snow. If your panels are impacted by these factors, plan to clean your solar panels post‑pollen (late spring/early summer) and post‑leaf fall (late fall).

• Urban areas: Some Ohio urban areas (Cincinnati and Cleveland Ohio) have higher soot/particulate load 
• Rural/agricultural: Dust during planting and harvest; pollen from fields and tree lines
• Lake-effect snow (NE Ohio): Snow adhesion can be stronger

Ohio baseline: Cleaning solar panels once or twice per year is typical for many homeowners.

How to Clean

Risks of Improper Cleaning

• Scratches from abrasive pads/brushes or gritty cloths
• Micro-cracks & water intrusion from pressure washers or forcing water under frames
• Electrical risk: Wet connectors, open junction boxes, or cleaning during faults
• Warranty issues: Using harsh chemicals or abrasive methods can void solar panel warranties

Tools & Materials (Homeowner Kit)

• Soft-bristle brush or non-abrasive squeegee/mop with extension pole
• Garden hose with gentle spray (no pressure washer!)
• Bucket with mild, pH‑neutral soap (a few drops in several gallons) or a solar-safe cleaner
• Deionized (DI) water or soft water for final rinse to minimize spotting (optional but ideal)
• Microfiber cloths for edge/detail work
• Personal protective equipment (see “Safety First”)
• Avoid: Steel wool, scouring pads, abrasive powders, glass polish like windex, solvents (acetone, paint thinner), ammonia/bleach, vinegar on coatings, and high‑pressure hose nozzles

Step-by-Step Process

• Shut down per manufacturer instructions and follow any site lockout/tagout steps
• Choose timing: Early morning or late afternoon when panels are cool and debris is softer
• Dry dust-off (optional): Lightly brush off loose grit to prevent scratching during wet cleaning
• Rinse gently: Use a soft, widespread stream to wet the surface and loosen grime
• Soapy wipe: Apply diluted, pH‑neutral soap with a soft brush/mop. Use light pressure; work top‑down
• Target spots: For bird droppings/sap, let soapy water sit 2–3 minutes. Re-wet rather than scrub hard
• Rinse thoroughly: Ensure no soap residue remains—de-ionized and soft water best for the final rinse
• Squeegee (optional): Pull water off in smooth passes to reduce spotting. Air drying is OK too
• Dry edges/hardware: Use microfiber to wipe frames/edges where water pools
• Restart & verify: Bring the system online and monitor production vs. prior baseline on the next sunny day

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cleaning at midday (hot glass = streaks, thermal shock, baked-on spots)
• Using pressure washers or abrasive tools
• Letting hard water dry on panels (mineral spots are stubborn)
• Over-soaping (residue attracts dust)
• Spraying water upward into the frame
• Skipping safety controls (turning system off/ ladder/roof fall risks)

Pros and Cons: Hiring a Professional

Pros

• Trained for roof/fall safety and electrical awareness
• Purified water systems (spot-free), telescopic poles, and solar-safe tools
• Faster, consistent results; production reports in some service packages

Cons

• Cost per visit
• Scheduling/availability around peak seasons
• Variable quality—verify insurance, references, and methods
• When to hire: Steep or high roofs, fragile tiles/metal roofs, heavy soiling you can’t remove gently, or if you’re uncomfortable working at height

Long-Term Care Tips

• Trim trees to reduce shade, sap, and droppings
• Water plan: If you have hard water, keep a few gallons of DI water or use a spot-free rinse attachment
• Monitoring habit: Check inverter/app; note seasonal baselines to catch soiling sooner

Safety First: Tips for Ensuring Safe Cleaning

• Electrical safety: Turn the system off, first. Never open sealed enclosures; avoid disturbing wiring and connectors. If you suspect damage, stop and call a pro.
• Weather & surface: Work on dry, non-windy days; avoid wet roofs and icy conditions.
• Time of day: Clean when panels are cool (early/late) to avoid burns and thermal stress.
• Ladders/Fall protection: Use a Class 1 ladder on level ground; secure at top; maintain 3 points of contact. For steep roofs, use a harness/anchor or hire a pro.
• Footwear & PPE: Non-slip shoes; safety glasses; cut-resistant, grippy gloves.
• Buddy system: Have someone spot you, especially on ladders/roofs.
• Chemical caution: Only mild, pH‑neutral soaps.

Answers to All Your Questions About Solar Panel Cleaning (FAQ)

Will cleaning void my solar panel warranty?

No—if done correctly. Avoid abrasives, harsh chemicals, and pressure washers. Follow your panel manufacturer’s care guidelines and your installer’s O&M (operations & maintenance) notes. Keep receipts and logs.

Can rain suffice to clean solar panels?

Yes! Rain can remove loose dust, but it often doesn’t get to the sticky pollen, droppings, or mineral films. Think of rain like a rinse.

How much does professional cleaning cost?

Costs vary by roof height, pitch, access, and system size. A typical Ohio single‑family home (20–30 panels) may see $150–$400 per visit; larger or complex roofs can be $400–$800+. Annual plans or bundle discounts can reduce per‑visit costs. (Ask for proof of insurance and a method statement before booking.)

Can I use a pressure washer?

No. High pressure risks forcing water under frames, damaging seals/coatings, and causing micro-cracks. Use low-pressure hose flow and soft tools.

What is the best thing to clean panels with?

Cool water + soft brush/squeegee + mild, pH‑neutral soap. For a spot-free finish, rinse with deionized water. In many cases, water alone with a soft brush is sufficient.

What cleaning products can I use?

Choose pH‑neutral, residue‑free soaps (few drops in a bucket). Avoid ammonia, bleach, vinegar, solvents, abrasive creams, and anything labeled “glass polish.” When in doubt, water and a gentle brush are safest.

Should I clear snow off my panels?

Our answer – no! Let snow melt and slide—especially on pitched roofs. Panels typically shed snow as the panels were positioned for the sun to warm the surface. It isn’t worth the risk of scratching the panel surface for a few extra days of winter sunlight. Wait for the snow to melt.

What are the big no‑nos when cleaning?

• Leaving the solar array on while cleaning
• Pressure washers or hard nozzles close to the glass.
• Abrasive pads, powders, or scouring tools.
• Harsh chemicals (ammonia, bleach, solvents) or acidic cleaners on coated glass.
• Cleaning in full sun with hot panels.
• Spraying upward into backsheets.
• Ignoring safety gear and fall protection.

What about cleaning solar panels on ground mounts?

Ground mounts are easier and safer to clean. Frequency is similar; dust can be worse if near driveways or fields.

Will cleaning noticeably boost production?

It depends on how dirty they are. Homeowners often see measurable gains after cleaning heavy pollen films or droppings. Use your monitoring app to give you a clear before/after on a clear day.

Can I stand on my panels?

No. Walking on panels risks cracks, cell damage, and voided warranties.

What if I have hard water?

Use a final rinse with deionized water or squeegee thoroughly before water dries.

Keeping Your Solar Panels Clean in 2026

Keeping your solar panels clean isn’t about aesthetics—it’s one of the simplest ways to protect your investment and maximize long‑term performance. With the right tools, safe techniques, and an understanding of how your solar energy system fairs throughout the seasons, you can keep your system running at peak efficiency year‑round. Whether you choose to handle the maintenance yourself or call a professional, staying proactive will ensure your panels continue delivering your home with reliable solar energy.