Should You Wash Solar Panels During the Day? Best Time to Clean for Maximum Efficiency

Experts report that people putting out their solar panels for cleaning in daytime is a no go. Many think that by washing the panels while they are in the sun you improve the performance which is not the case in fact you do damage to the panels.

During daylight solar panels heat up as they produce electricity from the sun. If at this point you spray them with cool water the quick change in temperature may cause cracking or in some cases break the glass. This can in turn reduce the panel’s performance and also wear out its life.

Is it better to clean solar panels at dawn or in the evening? At this point, the panels are still cool which makes it safe to clean them with water without any risk.

So when you want your solar panels to do their best and last you the longest, clean them early in the day instead of when it’s at their warmest.

Why Cleaning Solar Panels Matters

Dust, bird droppings, and pollution can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar panels by blocking sunlight. Regular cleaning can improve power output by 10% to 30%, depending on local conditions. However, how and when you clean them is just as important as the act itself.

Tips for Safe and Effective Cleaning

• Use a soft brush or sponge and clean water (preferably distilled to avoid mineral buildup).
• Avoid harsh detergents or pressure washers.
• If you’re unsure or your panels are hard to reach, hire a professional cleaning service.