How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels in the Inland Empire? (Truth You Need to Know)
Introduction
If you live in the Inland Empire — Riverside, San Bernardino, Corona, Menifee, Murrieta, or anywhere in between — you already know how fast everything gets dusty. Cars, patios, windows…
And yes, your solar panels suffer the most.
Solar panels in the IE get dirty faster than almost anywhere else in California. Between the desert winds, wildfire ash, pollen, and constant dust, your system loses efficiency quickly without regular cleaning.
So the real question homeowners ask is:
"How often should I clean my solar panels in the Inland Empire?"
Let's break it down with real data, local conditions, and expert insight.
Why Solar Panels Get Dirty Faster in the Inland Empire
The IE has a unique mix of environmental factors that make panels dirty faster:
1. Dust & dry soil
Most cities here have dry dirt, sandy soil, and consistent wind.
Result: A constant layer of fine dust builds up on your panels.
2. Pollen
Springtime in Riverside County = heavy yellow pollen.
Result: Pollen sticks to glass and doesn't wash off easily.
3. Bird droppings
Homes with tile roofs are bird magnets.
Result: Pigeons nest under panels → poop → stains → efficiency loss.
4. Wildfire ash
Almost every summer or fall, wildfires burn somewhere nearby.
Result: Ash coats panels in a thick, sticky layer.
5. Hard water
If you spray your panels with a hose, you leave white calcium spots.
Result: These spots block sunlight more than dust.
How Often You REALLY Need to Clean Your Solar Panels
Answer:
Every 3–4 months in the Inland Empire.
Not once per year. Not every 6–12 months like solar companies lie about.
Here's why:
- A study from UC San Diego found panels lose up to 25% efficiency when dirty.
- Our own clients in Riverside/Moreno Valley see 10–15% drops in just 90 days.
Recommended cleaning schedule:
- Residential homes: Every 3 months
- Near heavy traffic: Every 2 months
- Near open fields/desert: Every 2–3 months
- After wildfire season: Immediate cleaning
- Flat panels: Every 1–2 months (they get dirty faster)
What Happens If You Don't Clean Your Solar Panels?
Skipping cleanings causes:
1. Permanent stains
Hard water + bird droppings can etch the glass permanently.
2. Pigeon infestations
Bird nests under panels → destroyed wiring → expensive repairs.
3. Lower energy production
Dirty panels lose sunlight → less power → higher utility bills.
4. Shorter system lifespan
Debris + moisture = panel degradation.
DIY Cleaning vs Professional Cleaning
DIY sounds easy but comes with huge risks:
- Hard water stains
- Ladder falls
- Scratched panels
- Using soap that leaves residue
- Pressure washer damage (NEVER use one)
Professionals use:
- Deionized, purified water
- Soft brush poles
- Zero soap residue
- Safe roof access
- Inspection + before/after proof
Signs Your Panels Need Cleaning NOW
- Sudden electricity bill increase
- Visible dust or bird poop
- Solar app showing reduced production
- White spots from hard water
- Grey film or pollen layer
Conclusion
If you want maximum production, lower bills, and a longer-lasting system…
clean your panels every 3–4 months in the Inland Empire.
Your area gets dirty fast — your panels suffer even faster.
Need professional solar panel cleaning? We serve Riverside, San Bernardino, and all Inland Empire cities.
Call to Action
Ready to boost your solar efficiency?
👉 Book your solar panel cleaning with FlowState Solar Cleaning today.
Fast, safe, insured, and results you can see immediately.