If you’ve invested in solar panels, you’re already thinking long-term—reduced utility bills, clean energy, and greater energy independence. But what many homeowners and businesses don’t realize is that solar panel performance can drop by more than 1% per day if they aren’t cleaned regularly.
This leads to many people wondering…Should you clean your solar panels yourself, or hire a professional?
This blog breaks down why Utah homeowners and business owners are increasingly relying on trusted experts like Gardner Energy to keep their solar panel systems performing like new.
Over time, solar panel performance can drop significantly due to dust, grime, and environmental buildup. According to the IEEE, the accumulation of soil and dirt—also known as soiling—on solar panels blocks sunlight and leads to lost energy production.
In some regions, frequent rain may prevent buildup entirely, but in others, soiling can lead to performance losses exceeding 1% per day if left unaddressed. This can be a major concern in Utah’s dry climate, especially during periods of drought when dust levels rise and rain is scarce. Add in wildfire smoke, or pollen-heavy seasons, and the buildup happens faster than you’d expect.
And it’s not just ordinary dust…
Much of Utah’s airborne dust is mineral-rich. In cities along the Wasatch Front, mineral dust creates a gritty coating that’s tougher for rain to wash away. These particles often settle on solar panels and stick through a process called cementation—when overnight dew binds dust to the surface and essentially “bakes it on.” The result? Even heavier performance losses and a greater need for professional cleaning.
Cleaning your panels isn’t just cosmetic—it’s preventative maintenance that protects your investment.
Neglecting regular cleaning can seriously impact your system’s performance and lifespan. Here’s what can happen when dirt, dust, and debris build up:
Many homeowners are tempted to handle panel cleaning themselves. After all, it can’t be that hard, right? Let’s weigh the pros and cons…
“Willie and Rudy did an excellent job of cleaning underneath our panels, where they found several squirrel nests and a dead squirrel. Then they installed fencing around the panels’ perimeter to keep squirrels out permanently. While they were up there, they cleaned our gutters. Besides all that, they were very courteous and cheerful. A joy to have at our home. Thank you for sending such pros!”
— Terrell D.
This isn’t something a homeowner with a hose and a brush is likely to discover. Animal nests not only reduce performance—they can spark electrical issues and fire risks.
When you hire a professional solar panel cleaning team—especially one with solar installation experience like Gardner Energy—you get more than a quick rinse. They have a deeper understanding of how to protect your investment:
At first glance, DIY cleaning seems like the budget-friendly choice. No service fee, no waiting—just grab your hose and brush, right? But when you factor in the risks, the hidden costs add up quickly.
A scratched panel from the wrong tool, mineral deposits from hard water, or a missed bird nest causing wiring damage can lead to efficiency losses, repairs, or even voided warranties. Those “savings” can cost you hundreds—or more—in lost energy production or future system issues.
On the other hand, professional cleaning ensures maximum performance, and protects your equipment. When your solar panel system is designed to last 25–30 years, cleaning and maintaining it each year to keep it operating at full capacity is a smart long-term investment.
Contact us here to get a quote on your solar panel cleaning
The recommendations depend on your environment:
Even areas with seasonal rain aren’t immune. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (NREL) found that springtime pollen significantly reduced solar panel performance at every site studied. While rainfall helped wash away some of the pollen, it wasn’t enough to restore full solar panel performance. That’s why professional cleaning—especially after high-pollen seasons—remains essential.
In snowy regions like Utah, it’s also a good idea to check your panels after heavy winter storms. While most panels are angled enough to shed snow naturally, lingering buildup or ice dams can block sunlight and increase wear on your system.
Gardner Energy recommends you set a reminder to inspect your panels every spring and fall, or consider scheduling annual cleanings during slower energy months. And use your inverter’s monitoring tool. A noticeable energy drop often signals it’s time for a professional cleaning.
When it comes to maintaining your solar system, experience and trust matter more than you might think. Choosing a random cleaning service—or attempting DIY—can backfire fast if the team doesn’t understand how solar systems work or how to clean them properly.
Gardner Energy isn’t just a cleaning crew. They’re an Ogden-based solar leader that’s been completing design-build renewable energy projects for over two decades—and they’ve been a NABCEP Certified Solar contractor since 2005. With hands-on experience across residential, commercial, and government systems, their technicians understand system design, warranties, panel angles, and what it takes to protect long-term performance. So you’re not just getting a clean surface—you’re getting peace of mind that your system is protected by people who know what they’re doing.
“They were true to their word and made it a very quick and easy process. I highly recommend using Gardner Energy for your solar needs.”
— Jade W.
Learn more about Gardner Energy here
If you notice a drop in energy output on your inverter or energy app—or see visible dirt, pollen, or bird droppings—it’s time to consider cleaning. A spring and fall check is a smart rule of thumb, especially in dusty or dry climates like Utah.
Technically, yes—but it’s not ideal. Tap water often contains minerals that leave streaks or spots. Professionals use deionized water and soft brushes to prevent scratching and ensure a clear, streak-free finish that gets you the most energy possible.
No. High-pressure water can crack glass, loosen seals, and damage wiring. Always avoid pressure washers and abrasive tools when cleaning solar panels.
Costs vary depending on roof height, system size, and accessibility. The best way to get an accurate estimate for your system is to request a quote directly from Gardner Energy.
Many do. Some manufacturer warranties include clauses requiring proper maintenance and cleaning. Failure to keep panels clean may void certain performance guarantees—so check your documentation, or ask a professional like Gardner Energy.
Don’t let dust, debris, or hidden damage steal energy from your system—or money from your wallet. Whether it’s your first time scheduling a solar cleaning or you’re looking for a long-term maintenance partner, Gardner Energy makes it easy to get the job done right.
Contact Gardner Energy online or call (801) 689-2618 to book your professional cleaning, request a quote, or ask about our solar maintenance services for homes, businesses, and public institutions across Utah.
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We partnered with Kay’s Creek Elementary School to build a sustainable learning environment for their students. We installed a 275 kW solar system utilizing a ballast roof mount. This complete design-build project leverages existing rooftop space to generate clean energy. The 275 kW system is estimated to offset the carbon emissions equivalent to planting 16,589 trees. This project shows our commitment to providing sustainable solutions for educational institutions.
We partnered with Weber State University to install a new 950 kW parking lot solar canopy on their campus in Ogden, UT. This complete design-build project utilizes existing space to generate clean energy minimizing the university’s carbon footprint. The 950 kW system is estimated to offset the carbon emissions equivalent to planting 57,308 trees, demonstrating a significant contribution to environmental sustainability.
We partnered with Wasatch Commons to install 96 solar panels on an existing carport. This solar system generates 33 kW of renewable energy and is tied into Enphase microinverters. This project was the result of Wasatch Common’s commitment to environmental accountability, and we look forward to future opportunities to help them reach their renewable energy goals.
We partnered with Wadman Corporation to install a grid tied 171 kW solar array at their Ogden, Utah headquarters. This project utilized the space primarily on their unattached garages to create an annual power production of 239,999 kWh. This was such a smooth project with Wadman Corporation that we have worked with them on several solar projects since.
We partnered with Weber State University to install a new 950 kW parking lot solar canopy on their campus in Ogden, UT. This complete design-build project utilizes existing space to generate clean energy minimizing the university’s carbon footprint. The 950 kW system is estimated to offset the carbon emissions equivalent to planting 57,308 trees, demonstrating a significant contribution to environmental sustainability.
Our team installed a new 140 kW for Davis County School district at Bountiful Elementary School in Bountiful, Utah. This ballast roof system utilizes open space on their roof to generate clean energy. It is estimated that because Davis County School District has invested in this 140 kW system, they are offsetting their carbon emissions equivalent to planting 8,446 trees.
We partnered with Salt Lake Community College to design and build them a 143 kW solar system on a parking canopy. This innovative solution leverages existing space to generate clean energy, minimizing the college’s carbon footprint and providing shade and protection for vehicles. This project is estimated to offset emissions equivalent to planting 8,631 trees, contributing greatly to environmental sustainability.
We partnered with Davis County School District to install a new 40 kW ballast roof system at Sunburst Elementary School in Layton, Utah. This project utilizes space on the roof of the elementary school to generate clean energy for the school. In fact, this 40 kW system is estimated to offset the carbon emissions equivalent to planting 2,413 trees. Sunburst Elementary is contributing significantly to both the knowledge and the environmental sustainability for it’s students.
