Pure-water cleaning
Solar panel cleaning, done properly
Most solar panels in Melbourne are washed with the same tap water that left the spots in the first place. We clean with reverse-osmosis, deionised water through water-fed poles, reaching the array safely from a certified roof anchor where it needs it. The water dries without spotting and leaves nothing on the glass to draw the next layer of dirt back. It’s also the method most panel manufacturers specify — tap water and abrasive pads can put a warranty at risk.
Method
- 01We check your system and its recent output first, so we know what a good result looks like for your array.
- 02Pure water through a water-fed pole — no detergents, nothing left behind on the glass.
- 03Certified harness anchor for roof access wherever the panels can’t be reached safely from the ground.
- 04A thermal scan of the array, included on your first clean — so cleaning and diagnostics come together.
What to expect
Full PPE, a method statement lodged before we start, and a clear record of the work when we’re done. A proper clean usually recovers 5–15% of lost output.
Why it matters
Soiling builds up slowly, so the loss is easy to miss until you compare the output before and after. Clean glass is the cheapest kilowatt you’ll ever buy back.
Common questions
Why pure water instead of detergent?+
Deionised water dries without spotting and leaves nothing behind to attract dirt, so the panels stay cleaner for longer. Detergent residue does the opposite.
How often should panels be cleaned?+
Annual suits most Melbourne homes. Commercial sites, or anywhere near trees, traffic or heavy bird activity, are better twice a year — past that you’re into diminishing returns. We’ll give you an honest read for your array rather than a default.
Will cleaning actually improve generation?+
Usually. A proper clean recovers 5–15% of lost output, and we note the figures before and after so you can see the difference for yourself.
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