When to clean your solar panels

Last Updated on 19/08/2025 by owen_2023

When to clean your solar panels

Established in 2017, we have a wealth of knowledge that only experience brings. We have nationwide coverage. Please contact us for your local customer service agent.

The Solarstream in-house team brings an expert skills set of knowledge to all the solar projects we get involved in. This includes full project management, technical expertise to supporting our customers grant applications right down to the highest quality products we install.

You might think self-cleaning solar panels don’t need cleaning, but dirt can reduce their output. Even self-cleaning panels need TLC, especially in dry or coastal areas where salt builds up. The angle of your panels can also affect cleanliness; panels tilted less than five degrees are likely to get dirty. Regular maintenance keeps your panels working well, and cleaning is part of that. Here’s everything you need to know about cleaning your solar panels.

Why should I clean my solar panels?

Solar panels function correctly when sunlight reaches them. Obstacles to sunlight can reduce their effectiveness and energy output. While some tests show that a bit of dust doesn’t significantly affect panels, it can still reduce functionality and energy production over time. Other build-ups like leaves and bird droppings can have a bigger impact, especially if left for an extended period.

Trees in the area can increase the chances of leaves getting trapped between panels and bird droppings affecting them. Regular cleaning boosts panels’ efficiency and prevents self-cleaning from being insufficient.

When to clean them

Solar panels in Ireland are designed to clean themselves, so they’re pretty low-maintenance. But, if you have them in a super dry area or if they’re tilted less than 5 degrees, you might want to give them a quick wipe down to make sure they’re working as well as they can.

There are several companies in your area that can come and clean your panels but as they are self cleaning when you by your Solar panels with Solarstream you are in good hands!

If you are interested in Residential Solar Systems or Business Solar Systems then please contact our friendly customer service team on info@solarstream.ie or call 1800 929 009.