Irvine gets a ton of sun. That is exactly why so many homeowners and businesses around here made the move to solar. But here’s the thing no one talks about when you first get your panels: they don’t clean themselves.
I still remember a call we got last spring from a woman in Woodbridge. Her electric bill had jumped way up out of nowhere. She thought maybe something was wrong with the system itself. Turns out her panels were just layered with a thick coat of pollen and grime from all the wind and tree dust. Once we got up there and gave everything a good clean, her system was right back to normal.
Do Solar Panels Really Need to Be Cleaned?
Yeah, they do. Even here in Irvine where the air’s usually pretty clean, stuff builds up. Think dust from construction near Great Park, ash when we get those seasonal fires, bird poop (especially if you’re near Mason Park or around any of the citrus trees), and just your everyday layer of grime from wind and smog.
If your panels are dirty, they’re not pulling in light like they should. That means they’re working harder for less power. You’ll probably notice it first in your electric bill, or if you use an app to track solar performance, you’ll see a drop.
How Often Should You Clean Them?
We usually tell Irvine customers every 6 months is a good rhythm. But it really depends. If you live up by Turtle Rock with a bunch of trees dropping stuff, or down near Sand Canyon where dust kicks up more often, you might need it quarterly. On the other hand, if you’re in a new development with good spacing and not much tree cover, you can probably stretch it.
Rain helps a little, but it doesn’t scrub panels the way you think. It’ll rinse off loose stuff, but the sticky dirt and grime stay behind. Same with sprinkler overspray. That’ll actually leave hard water spots and make it worse.
Why Choose BJ’s Window Cleaning?
We’re not some big chain. We’re local, and we care about doing the job right. Everyone on our crew has actually cleaned solar panels in Irvine neighborhoods like Northwood, Westpark, and Quail Hill. We bring the right tools, safe ladders, and non-abrasive equipment so your panels get cleaned without damaging the glass or the frame.
We don’t just spray and go. We use filtered water, gentle brushes, and soft rinses to actually clean the panels and restore output. No soap, no squeegees, and no shortcuts.
What to Expect When You Book
- We show up on time. Period.
- We do a full safety check and protect any landscaping below the roof.
- You get a report with before and after pics, and we’ll tell you if we see any wear or cracks in the panels or seals.
- We answer your questions like normal people, not with a script.
Most cleanings take less than an hour unless we’re doing a full roof inspection or cleaning multiple buildings.
Can You Just Clean Them Yourself?
Sure, if you’re confident with a ladder, have the right equipment, and don’t mind risking your roof or breaking a panel. But most folks either do it wrong or stop halfway through because it’s a pain.
One guy in Northpark told us he tried it with a hose and a broom and scratched up two of his panels. Not worth it.
We Also Service Businesses in Irvine
We help small shops, medical buildings near Hoag, offices in the Spectrum area, and even some schools with solar arrays. If you’re a property manager or facilities coordinator, we can put you on a rotating schedule. Easy. No contracts unless you want one.
Solar Panels and HOA Rules
Some Irvine neighborhoods like Shady Canyon and Portola Springs have strict HOA rules. If you’re worried about getting a violation for hiring someone without proper insurance or making noise too early, don’t be. We’re insured, quiet, and respectful of the rules. We’ve worked in almost every major HOA zone in Irvine and can keep it smooth.
Seasonal Reminders
Spring and early fall are great times to clean, especially before and after the Santa Ana winds. After the wind dies down, it’s crazy how fast the panels get dull again. If you’re near Jeffrey Open Space Trail or anywhere with eucalyptus trees, it’s even worse.
Ready To Book a Cleaning?
You can call us or fill out the online form. We’ll get back to you fast and let you know pricing based on roof height, access, and how many panels you’ve got. No upsells, no pushy stuff.
Most of our Irvine customers just keep us on a twice-a-year schedule. They say it saves them more than it costs, especially in the summer when solar output makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Solar panels are a big investment. Don’t let dirt lower their value. If you’re in Irvine and want them to actually perform like they should, give us a call. We’ll make it quick and easy.
We work like your panels depend on it. Because they kinda do.