Should You Hire a Professional to Clean Your Solar Panels

Keeping your solar panels clean can be a surprising yet effective way to maintain peak energy production. But should you tackle the job yourself or call in a pro? In 2025, with soaring electricity rates across Southern California, smart maintenance decisions like this can significantly impact your returns—and make your solar investment last longer. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Cleaning Solar Panels Still Matters in 2025

Even in sunny Southern California, debris can build up over time—dust, pollen, bird droppings, soot, and more. A study indicates that soiling can reduce energy output by up to 4–10% annually. While rain helps wash panels clean, “cementation”—a stubborn buildup caused by dew mixing with dust—can still hamper efficiency in drier areas.

Cleaning panels even once a year can yield noticeable energy recovery. In one study, cleaning weekly helped recover about 3% of lost power.

DIY Cleaning: When It Makes Sense—and What to Watch For

Pros of DIY Solar Panel Cleaning:

• Cost-effective: You avoid hiring fees. Materials like mild soap and a hose may cost around $100 total.
• Flexible timing: Do it when it fits your schedule, avoiding queues for booking professionals.

DIY Must-Knows for Safe Cleaning:

• Clean during cooler hours (early morning or evening) to avoid panel stress and streaks.
• Always turn off your system beforehand.
• Use only mild soap and soft tools—never abrasive cleaners, glass cleaners, or pressure washers‍.
• Keep safety front and center—use sturdy ladders, non-slip shoes, and avoid walking on panels.

DIY Risks to Note:

• Cleaning improperly can void warranties if damage occurs.
• Risk of personal injury from slips or roof falls.
• Incomplete cleanings may fail to remove stubborn grime, offering little performance gain‍.

Professional Cleaning: What You Gain—and When It’s Worth It

Professional Cleaning Advantages:

• Superior cleanliness: Pros use deionized water, purified systems, and soft brushes to safely remove all grime.
• Efficiency & convenience: It’s typically quicker— 5 times faster than DIY.
• Maintenance checks: Cleaners often inspect panels for wear and alert you to issues early.
• Safety and warranty protection: Professionals are trained and insured, reducing your liability and protecting warranties.

Cost Considerations:

• Expect to pay between $100 and $350, depending on system size and accessibility.
• For larger systems or steep roofs, the investment can be particularly worthwhile.

DIY vs. Professional: Quick Comparison

Final Thoughts for Southern California Homeowners

Cleaning your solar panels—either DIY or professional—is key to maintaining efficiency. If you prefer control and have experience working safely, DIY can be a viable option for routine upkeep. But for thorough, safe, and warranty-friendly results, hiring a professional is often the smarter choice.

At US Power, we don’t offer cleaning services—but we do something even better: we provide homeowners across Southern California with high-efficiency, American-made solar panels and expert installation backed by a 25-year warranty. If you’re thinking about going solar in 2025, trust US Power to deliver the best products, the best prices, and a seamless experience from start to finish. Reach out to US Power Today!