How to Clean Solar Panels the Right Way (And Why It Matters)
Solar panels are a great investment for homeowners in San Diego County, but many people don’t realize that dirty solar panels can lose 10–30% of their efficiency. Dust, pollen, bird droppings, coastal salt, and pollution all build up over time—blocking sunlight and reducing energy production.
Cleaning your solar panels properly helps restore performance, extend their lifespan, and protect your warranty.
Why Solar Panel Cleaning Is Important
Even a thin layer of dirt can prevent sunlight from reaching the solar cells. Regular professional cleaning can:
Increase energy output and efficiency
Protect manufacturer warranties
Prevent long-term damage and hot spots
Improve return on investment (ROI)
In areas like Encinitas, San Marcos, Carlsbad, Vista, and Oceanside, coastal air and dust make routine cleaning especially important.
Why You Should NEVER Use Tap Water or Harsh Chemicals
Many homeowners try to rinse panels with a hose or scrub them with soap. This can actually do more harm than good.
Tap water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that leave spots and residue behind. Over time, these mineral deposits can reduce performance and even damage the panel surface.
Harsh chemicals, abrasive brushes, or pressure washers can:
Scratch the glass
Damage panel coatings
Void warranties
What Is Reverse Osmosis Deionized (RO/DI) Water?
At Refresh Exterior Property Care, we use a Reverse Osmosis Deionized (RO/DI) water system—the professional standard for solar panel cleaning.
RO/DI water is ultra-purified water with all minerals, salts, and impurities removed.
Why RO/DI Water Is Best for Solar Panels:
Dries spot-free with no residue
Requires no soaps or chemicals
Safe for panel glass and coatings
Maximizes light transmission
Environmentally friendly
Because the water is pure, it naturally attracts dirt and contaminants, lifting them off the panel surface without damage.
Why Refresh Exterior Property Care Are the Experts to Call
We don’t just clean solar panels—we clean them the right way.
✔ Trained professionals
✔ RO/DI water-fed pole systems
✔ Soft-bristle, solar-safe brushes
✔ No ladders required from you
✔ Fully insured & Veteran-owned
Our methods are safe for roofing materials, solar warranties, and long-term performance. We also inspect panels during cleaning and can spot potential issues early.
How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?
For most homes in North County San Diego:
Every 6–12 months is ideal
Coastal or dusty areas may need more frequent service
Regular cleaning maintenance ensures your system performs at its best year-round.
Schedule Professional Solar Panel Cleaning Today
If you want maximum energy output without risking damage, professional solar panel cleaning is the smartest choice.
📍 Serving San Marcos, Carlsbad, Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, and surrounding areas
👉 Contact Refresh Exterior Property Care today for a free quote and expert solar panel cleaning you can trust.
