If you’ve invested in solar panels, you’ve already made a smart move—lower power bills, reduced carbon footprint, and a home that’s more future-proof. But here’s something many Aussie homeowners overlook: keeping your solar panels clean and properly maintained is just as important as installing them in the first place.
The good news? Solar panel upkeep isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. And if you want to keep your system running at peak efficiency, protect your investment, and avoid costly issues down the track, a little maintenance goes a long way.
Let’s walk through why cleaning and maintaining your solar panels matters, when to do it, what to look out for, and why hiring a solar panel cleaning expert is often the smarter call.
Solar panels work by capturing sunlight—so anything blocking that sunlight reduces their performance. Dust, pollen, leaves, bird droppings, and even sea salt (if you’re near the coast) can build up over time.
In fact, some studies show that heavily soiled panels can lose up to 20–30% of their efficiency. And while that might not sound like much day-to-day, it becomes a big deal when you stack it up over months and years.
Here are the top culprits affecting panel performance in Australia:
Dust and dirt: Especially in regional areas or near construction sites.
Bird droppings: Surprisingly stubborn and very common under gum trees.
Salt spray: A major issue for coastal homes.
Leaves and debris: Particularly after storms or during spring shedding.
Ash: If you live near bushfire-prone regions.
You might not notice your system slowly underperforming—but your power bill definitely will.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most experts recommend a professional clean every six months to a year. Here’s a quick guide based on your location:
City suburbs: Every 12 months
Rural properties: Every 6 months
Coastal areas: Every 3–6 months
Homes near industrial or dusty areas: Twice a year
After major weather events: As needed
If your system’s monitoring app shows a sudden drop in output, that’s also a sign they need a touch-up.
Some homeowners wonder whether they can clean solar panels themselves. Technically, yes—you can. But the real question is: should you?
Here’s what you need to consider:
Solar panels are usually on rooftops. So unless you’re comfortable climbing ladders and working at heights, it’s better to leave it to someone who does it every day. Tradies use proper harnesses, anchors, and equipment that comply with Australian safety standards.
A lot of people assume they can just blast panels with a pressure washer. Not only is that risky—it can damage the panel surface or void manufacturer warranties. Professionals use the right tools: soft brushes, purified water, and non-abrasive cleaners.
A good tradie won’t just clean your panels—they’ll check for:
microcracks
loose wiring
corrosion
hot spots
damage from wildlife
water ingress
Catching these issues early can save thousands in repairs later.
Some manufacturers actually recommend (or require) professional cleaning and maintenance. If something goes wrong, having a qualified tradesperson’s report can make warranty claims smoother.
Cleaning is just one part of keeping your solar panels functioning at their best. Here’s what regular maintenance should include:
The inverter is the “brain” of your solar system. A professional will inspect for:
error messages
unusual noises
overheating
faulty wiring
A tradie will look for cracks, warping, and signs of impact—especially after hailstorms.
Faulty diodes can reduce performance or shut down parts of your array.
Over time, exposure to heat and moisture can loosen or degrade cables. An expert will ensure everything’s tight, safe, and compliant.
Brackets and frames can rust or shift over time, especially in windy or coastal regions.
Regular check-ups help maintain efficiency, prevent issues, and extend the lifespan of your system.
Even if you’re comfortable checking your solar panels occasionally, there are situations when you should absolutely call a professional:
After hailstorms or severe weather
If you notice a sudden drop in system performance
If birds or possums have been nesting near your roof
If your inverter flashes warning lights
If water is pooling around the wiring
Solar systems are electrical equipment—so it’s always safer to bring in someone qualified.
Hiring a tradie isn’t just about safety. It’s about getting the best return on your investment. Here’s what you gain:
Clean panels absorb more sunlight, which means lower power bills.
Maintenance helps prevent issues before they become expensive problems.
If you spent thousands installing your solar system, it makes sense to protect it.
You don’t need to climb on the roof or guess whether your system is performing well.
Professional maintenance reports can be a lifesaver during claims.
When it’s time to clean or service your solar panels, finding a reliable tradie shouldn’t be a hassle. That’s why thousands of Aussies jump onto ServiceSeeking.com.au—it’s fast, easy, and you get multiple quotes in minutes.
Here’s why it works so well:
You can compare quotes from multiple solar cleaners and electricians.
You choose who you hire, based on reviews, price, and experience.
You save time, because tradies come to you.
You get proper, compliant work, from professionals who know the standards.
Whether you need a simple clean, a full system inspection, or help troubleshooting performance issues, the platform connects you with trusted local experts.
Your solar panels are one of the few home upgrades that actually make you money. But they can only do that when they’re working efficiently—and that means keeping them clean, safe, and well-maintained.
Rather than risking your roof or guessing what’s going on with your system, it’s much easier (and smarter) to book a professional who’ll handle the lot for you.
So if you want to boost performance, protect your investment, and save on power bills, jump onto ServiceSeeking.com.au and get free quotes from solar maintenance experts today. Your panels—and your wallet—will thank you.