How do you clean your solar panels effectively: demineralised water or detergent? 

Regular maintenance of solar panels is essential to ensure their energy efficiency and longevity. Dust, pollen, bird droppings, as well as moss and fungi can accumulate on the surface of the modules and significantly reduce their performance. A common question is: should you use pure water, demineralized water, or a detergent for solar panel cleaning? The answer depends on the condition of your installation. Here’s a focus on best practices, recommended tools like the Disy Electro by Qleen By Guialto, and solutions adapted to each situation.

The Importance of Properly Cleaning Your Photovoltaic Panels

A clean solar panel is an efficient panel. When dirty, photovoltaic modules can lose up to 20% of their output. Solar panel cleaning should therefore not be neglected, especially if you live in an area with high pollution or natural deposits. Installations located on farms or near industries are also particularly affected because their surroundings generate many dirt deposits that hinder the proper functioning of photovoltaic panels.

But beware: not all types of water or products are equal. A poor choice can leave marks, damage surfaces, or reduce panel performance.

Pure Water or Detergent: Which Solution to Choose?

Pure Water: Ideal for Regular Maintenance

Pure water, also called demineralized water, is free from minerals and particles. When it evaporates, it leaves no residue on the glass surfaces of solar panels. It is therefore highly recommended for regular cleaning of installations.

Moreover, pure water contains no chemicals, making it an environmentally friendly solution with no risk of damaging sensitive surfaces.

How to Obtain Pure Water?

Two technologies allow you to instantly produce demineralized water for solar panel cleaning:

1. Ion exchange resin filtration: the resin traps minerals (calcium, magnesium…) to deliver soft water.

2. Reverse osmosis: a membrane system deeply filters tap water, removing up to 99% of impurities.

These two water filtration methods can be integrated into professional cleaning devices, such as the Disy Electro by Qleen By Guialto.

Detergent: For Heavily Soiled Panels

If your solar panels have not been cleaned for several years, pure water alone will not be enough. More resistant deposits may have formed: moss, mold, fungi, soot, or ingrained pollution. In this case, using a detergent for solar panel cleaning is essential.

These products help dissolve organic matter, loosen deposits, and restore your installation’s clean and functional appearance. It’s a thorough treatment that renews a neglected solar installation.

Disy Electro by Qleen By Guialto: A Hybrid and Efficient Solution

The Disy Electro by Qleen By Guialto is an innovative tool offering a dual functionality: it allows you to choose between using pure water or tap water combined with detergent.

This flexibility is particularly appreciated:

• For very dirty solar panels, you can opt for tap water enriched with a chemical product for solar panel cleaning to deeply strip deposits. It is also possible to adjust the chemical dosage added to the water, from 0 to 100% concentration.

• Once surfaces are restored, switch to demineralized water for the final rinse, ensuring a streak-free dry.

• For routine maintenance, use pure water directly with no added product.

This versatility makes Disy Electro an ideal tool for professional cleaners or demanding homeowners.

Advantages and Limitations of Both Methods

What Strategy to Adopt for Cleaning Your Solar Installation?

The best approach is progressive and sustainable:

1. Step One – Renovation: If panels are covered with old organic deposits (moss, lichens, mold…), start with a deep cleaning using an appropriate detergent with tap water as the base.

2. Step Two – Rinse: Rinse with demineralized water to remove all residues and ensure a flawless finish.

3. Step Three – Regular Maintenance: Once panels are clean, schedule periodic cleaning (1 to 2 times a year) using pure water only. This prevents dirt buildup and extends the photovoltaic modules’ lifespan.

It is also recommended to use a rotary brush for cleaning solar panel installations. The mechanical action of the brush improves results and reduces cleaning effort for the operator.

Summary: Choosing the Right Cleaning Method

To clean your solar installation, the choice between pure water and detergent depends on the condition of the panels:

• Use a detergent for solar panel cleaning if your modules are heavily soiled or haven’t been maintained for a long time.

• Prefer demineralized water for routine maintenance to preserve surfaces and ensure a spotless result.

Thanks to the Disy Electro by Qleen By Guialto, you get a 2-in-1 tool that supports both deep cleaning and preventive maintenance.