SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/solar-cleaning-method
What does NREL's operations and maintenance guide recommend for cleaning PV modules?
Plain demineralized water and a mild detergent the maker recommends.
- A pressure washer on high
- Plain demineralized water and a mild detergent ✔
- Abrasive scrub pads and solvent
Why: Harsh cleaning can scratch the glass or damage parts. NREL says to follow the module maker and avoid high-pressure water, solvents, abrasives and harsh detergents.
Huh, didn't know that: NREL describes an economical method: a bucket of water and a squeegee, using overlapping vertical strokes like washing windows.
Why don't seashells shower? Because they wash up on the beach.
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References
Answer: Plain demineralized water and a mild detergent. Harsh cleaning can scratch the glass or damage parts. NREL says to follow the module maker and avoid high-pressure water, solvents, abrasives and harsh detergents.
- NREL: Best Practices for O&M of PV and Energy Storage Systems, 3rd ed. (2018) docs.nlr.gov/docs/fy19osti/73822.pdf
Clean PV modules with plain demineralized water and mild detergent recommended by the manufacturer.
Checked 2026-10-10.
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