Technically, yes – you can pressure wash solar panels, but it’s not recommended unless it’s done by a professional. While pressure washers can remove built-up grime, using the wrong pressure, angle, or technique can crack the surface, damage seals, or force water into the wiring, leading to faults and voided warranties.

Solar panels are delicate and require care when being cleaned. DIY pressure washing often causes more harm than good, especially without the right equipment or safety knowledge.

At Pressure Up, we use low-pressure, non-abrasive methods that are safe for your panels and approved by manufacturers. Our approach protects your system while restoring performance and improving energy output.

We’ll explain why pressure washing solar panels is unsafe, what’s at stake if you try it yourself, and how expert solar panel cleaning helps you protect your investment and boost energy savings.

What Are the Risks If I Pressure Wash Solar Panels?

Solar panels aren’t designed to withstand high-pressure water. While the frames may seem sturdy, the surface is made of tempered glass that can crack or fracture under intense force. Even if the damage isn’t visible, water can still find its way into the electrical components.

Pressure washing can lead to:

  • Cracked or chipped glass, which reduces light absorption and lowers energy output
  • Water getting in seals or wiring, leading to faults or corrosion
  • Loosened panel fittings or mounting points, which compromise structural safety
  • Electrical hazards, especially if water contacts exposed connections
  • Voided warranties, as most manufacturers prohibit high-pressure cleaning methods

These risks don’t always show up straight away, but they can reduce system efficiency and lead to costly repairs down the track. In most cases, the money saved by doing it yourself is quickly lost in repairs or reduced performance.

If your panels need cleaning, it’s safer and smarter to leave it to professionals who use methods approved by manufacturers and designed to protect your system.

Will Cleaning My Solar Panels Void the Warranty?

Yes it can, depending on how it’s done. Most solar panel manufacturers include maintenance guidelines in their warranty terms. Using a pressure washer, harsh chemicals, or abrasive tools often goes against those terms and can void your warranty. Always check your manufacturer’s warranty guidelines before cleaning your solar panels.

DIY cleaning comes with the risk of damaging the panel surface or frame, even if it’s accidental. And if a claim is made later, manufacturers may inspect your system for signs of incorrect cleaning.

To keep your warranty valid, it’s better to hire professionals who understand them. At Pressure Up, we clean according to industry standards and manufacturer guidelines, giving you peace of mind that your panels stay protected in every way.

How to Clean Solar Panels Safely

Cleaning solar panels safely requires the right technique, tools, and timing. A soft, steady approach is key. Avoid pressure washers, harsh chemicals, or rough scrubbing.

Safe cleaning means using purified water, soft brushes, and non-abrasive techniques – never high pressure or harsh chemicals. You also need to consider the risk of working at heights and make sure you have the right safety gear.

Professional cleaning takes the guesswork out. Our team uses gear that’s made for solar panels, strong enough to clean properly but gentle enough to protect your system and your warranty.

How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?

For most homes, solar panels should be professionally cleaned every 6 to 12 months. This keeps them working at their best and helps prevent a gradual drop in energy output caused by dirt, dust, and debris.

If your roof is near trees, exposed to bird droppings, or affected by high winds or dust storms, you may need to clean them more often. Homes in rural or coastal areas also tend to see faster build-up.

Regular cleaning doesn’t just keep your panels looking better—it keeps your power bills down. Even a thin layer of grime can reduce how much sunlight reaches the cells, which means your system has to work harder to produce the same energy.

At Pressure Up, we offer scheduled solar panel cleaning in Toowoomba and surrounding areas. Whether it’s part of your yearly maintenance or something that’s overdue, we’re ready to help you get the most from your system.

Signs your Solar Panels Need Cleaning

Not sure if it’s time to clean your solar panels? Here are a few common signs to look out for:

  • Visible dirt or bird droppings on the panel surface
  • Sudden drops in energy output, especially on clear and sunny days
  • Noticeable shading or patchy grime when viewed from the ground
  • Higher electricity bills, even though your usage hasn’t changed
  • Nearby dust sources, such as farms, construction sites, or trees

Even if your panels look mostly clean, fine dust or residue can still block sunlight and reduce efficiency. The only way to be sure they’re working at full capacity is with a professional clean.

If you’re seeing any of these signs, it’s a good time to book in. At Pressure Up, we’ll restore your system’s performance safely and thoroughly—so you can keep enjoying lower bills and better results.

Get your Solar Panels Cleaned the Right Way!

Solar panels are a long-term investment, and keeping them clean is key to getting the best return. But that doesn’t mean you should do it yourself.

At Pressure Up, we know how to clean panels safely, without pressure washers or harsh chemicals. Our team uses the right equipment to protect your panels while removing the dirt that blocks performance, so we can maximise your energy output!

Whether your panels are on a single-storey home or a multi-level roof, we’ll get the job done properly so you get more power, fewer issues, and peace of mind.

Need a safe, professional solar panel clean?

Stop losing power to dirt and grime. Get a free quote for our solar panel cleaning service in Toowoomba and enjoy more energy, lower bills and no risk to your system.

Over time, your roof builds up a lot of dirt, moss, and lichen, and the harsh Aussie sun can also take its toll. Cleaning your roof tiles is a vital step to ensure your property keeps looking good and to protect your investment. At Pressure Up House Washing, we’re all about bringing homes back to life, and we believe that starts at the top. Whether your roof tiles are concrete or terracotta, here’s everything you need to know to clean roof tiles safely, properly, and effectively.

Why Clean Roof Tiles?

Regular roof tile cleaning keeps your home looking great and helps prevent long-term damage. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

  • Stops moss, mould, and lichen growth – Left untreated, they trap moisture and can degrade your tiles.
  • Prevents staining and discolouration – Especially in shaded or damp areas.
  • Extends roof life – Less wear and tear, fewer cracked or broken tiles.
  • Improves curb appeal – A clean roof can completely lift the look of your home.
  • Prepares for painting – If you’re planning to repaint or reseal, clean tiles are a must.

Safety First: Prepping for a Roof Clean

Before you touch a pressure washer, prep properly for a safe and efficient clean.

Use the Right Safety Gear

  • Non-slip shoes
  • Safety harness if the roof is steep or multi-level
  • Safety glasses and gloves
  • Long extension cords secured safely

Secure Your Setup

  • Use a stable ladder—never lean it against the gutter
  • Install roof guard rails if possible
  • Disconnect rainwater tanks so chemicals don’t contaminate your supply
  • Move outdoor furniture and cover plants below with tarps

At Pressure Up, our crew uses harnesses and safety systems every time we clean a roof—and our free drone inspections mean we can assess from above before stepping foot on it.

Types of Roof Tiles and What They Need

Terracotta Roof Tiles

Terracotta tiles are made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures to create their signature rich colour and durability. They’re known for their rustic aesthetic and excellent performance in hot climates—perfect for Toowoomba homes.

Cleaning Tip: Terracotta tiles are more porous and prone to moss and algae. We recommend low to medium-pressure cleaning paired with eco-friendly treatments to avoid cracking the tiles or damaging their glazed surface.

Pros:

  • Naturally insulating and energy-efficient
  • Long lifespan (50–100 years)
  • Weather and fire resistant
  • Classic appearance

Watch out for: Their brittleness. While durable in the right hands, these tiles can crack easily under pressure or weight—especially during DIY cleans.

Clay Roof Tiles

Clay tiles are similar to terracotta but can come in more styles, finishes, and colour variations. They’re known for being long-lasting, fireproof, and weather-resistant. In fact, some clay tiles can last up to 150 years.

Cleaning Tip: Like terracotta, clay tiles are best cleaned with a gentle soft wash method and mould inhibitor. Avoid harsh chemicals—these can affect the finish and weaken the tiles over time.

Pros:

  • Excellent water resistance
    Eco-friendly and fully recyclable
  • Help regulate home temperature
  • Come in various finishes and styles

Watch out for: They’re one of the more premium options—both in terms of cost and installation complexity.

Slate Roof Tiles

Natural slate is a high-end roofing material with a unique, timeless look. It’s made from natural stone, which means each tile has its own texture and colour. It’s extremely durable, lasting 75 to over 200 years with proper care.

Cleaning Tip: Soft washing is a must. Slate is heavy and can be fragile under pressure. A low-pressure system and gentle roof detergent will clean without compromising the slate or any underlayments.

Pros:

  • Superior lifespan
  • Distinctive and elegant appearance
  • Fire, wind, and moisture resistant

Watch out for: Very heavy—your roof needs to be structurally reinforced. Also, they come with a premium price tag, both for the materials and professional installation.

Solar Roof Tiles

Solar tiles combine roofing and energy generation in one sleek solution. They look like standard tiles but are made with tempered glass and solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity.

Cleaning Tip: Never pressure wash solar tiles. Use soft water, a mild detergent, and a non-abrasive cloth or soft brush. For hard-to-reach areas, we recommend using specialised solar cleaning tools—or better yet, call the pros.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly energy generation
  • Visually integrated (no bulky panels)
  • Long-term energy savings

Watch out for: High upfront cost. Also, not all roof pitches or orientations are suitable, so a professional inspection is essential before installation or cleaning.

Metal Roof Tiles

Metal tiles—often made from steel, aluminium, or zinc—combine the look of traditional tiles with the durability of metal sheeting. They’re popular for their lightweight build and high fire and wind resistance.

Cleaning Tip: Use low-pressure water and a gentle detergent. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage protective coatings and lead to rust or corrosion over time.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Long-lasting (up to 50 years)
  • Reflective surface = cooler home
  • Often made from recycled materials

Watch out for: Can be noisy during rain or hail. Also, ensure regular maintenance to prevent rust or coating wear.

Cleaning Methods: What Actually Works?

1. Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is a fast and effective method to blast away grime, mould, and dirt—when done right.

How to Do It:

  • Use a machine with a PSI around 1500–2000
  • Hold the nozzle ~30cm from the tile surface
  • Start from the top down to avoid washing dirt over clean areas
  • Keep a steady pace to avoid striping or damaging tiles

✅ Best for: Thick dirt, moss, lichen
⚠️ Caution: Can break brittle tiles if pressure is too high or used at the wrong angle

At Pressure Up, we adjust pressure levels and use surface-specific nozzles to clean without causing damage.

2. Soft Washing

For older roofs or tiles showing signs of wear, soft washing is the gentler, safer method.

What You’ll Need:

  • A low-pressure sprayer
  • Eco-friendly roof cleaner (biodegradable, non-toxic)
  • Water source

Steps:

  • Spray cleaner evenly from top to bottom
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
  • Gently rinse using low pressure

✅ Best for: Delicate terracotta tiles or older roofs
✅ Bonus: Eco-friendly options won’t harm your garden or pets

3. Chemical Treatment (Anti-Moss or Algae Wash)

Some roofs need that extra kick to kill off deep-rooted growth like lichen.

Products to consider:

  • Sodium percarbonate-based cleaners
  • TSP (trisodium phosphate) for tough stains
  • 50/50 bleach and water mix (with care)

How to Apply:

  • Apply in dry weather so it has time to activate
  • Spray across the roof, wait, then rinse thoroughly
    Don’t let any chemical dry on your tiles

⚠️ Bleach-based products can corrode tiles if not rinsed off thoroughly. Avoid high-chlorine formulas.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

  1. Inspect the Roof
    • Look for cracked or missing tiles
    • Remove loose debris by hand or with a blower
  2. Apply Anti-Moss Spray (Optional)
    • Let it sit before rinsing
  3. Wash the Tiles
    • Use pressure or soft wash depending on roof type
    • Always rinse from bottom up to control runoff
  4. Final Rinse
    • Remove all chemical residues thoroughly
  5. Clean Gutters
    • Roof debris usually ends up in gutters—flush them out before you finish
  6. Apply a Sealant (Optional)
    • After drying, sealing your roof helps prevent regrowth and staining

Aftercare: Keep That Roof Looking Fresh

  • Annual Inspections – We recommend a yearly inspection to check for cracks, mould, and water damage.
  • Seasonal Touch-Ups – Especially after storms or heavy tree shedding.
  • Reapply Sealant – Every 3–5 years for long-term tile protection.

At Pressure Up, we provide a variety of house washing services, including roof cleaning.

Should You DIY or Call the Pros?

DIY can save money—but only if you’ve got the tools, the time, and the confidence to get up on a roof safely.

Hire the Pros If:

  • Your roof is steep, multi-level, or fragile
  • You’re unsure about safe chemical use
  • You’d rather not risk injury or damage
  • You want it done properly!

With our advanced equipment, experienced team, and local Toowoomba know-how, Pressure Up House Washing gets the job done right—every time.

FAQs

How often should I clean my roof tiles?

For terracotta tiles, once a year. Concrete can go 2–3 years between cleans unless you’re in a high-moss or tree-covered area.

Yes—if done with the wrong pressure or nozzle. Always use a medium setting and work at a safe distance.

Not always, but they help prevent regrowth. Eco-friendly options are safer for your roof and the environment.

Only with proper footwear and safety gear. Always walk where tiles overlap and avoid brittle areas.

Yes! We use drones to safely inspect every inch of your roof—no obligation.

Ready to Refresh Your Roof?

Don’t let dirt and moss drag down the look (and lifespan) of your home. Whether you want a one-off clean or regular roof care, Pressure Up is Toowoomba’s trusted team for professional, safe, and sparkling results.

📍 Get a Free Quote Today

Cleaning your trash can isn’t as easy as taking out the garbage. If trash can cleaning were so simple, people would have no problem doing it once or even twice a day! But homeowners often have other things they wish to do besides getting themselves filthy in an effort to get their wheelie bins clean and healthy. Luckily, thanks to professional pressure cleaning companies such as Pressure Up House Washing Services, they don’t have to do this task at all.

But some people may wonder why they would bother cleaning their trash bins themselves or hiring a pressure cleaning crew to do it for them. After all, where trash goes, filth is going to follow, so what’s the point? You may be surprised to know that there are many important reasons you should maintain a clean trash bin, and doing so may save you time, money, and health.

Keep Pests Away From Your Property

No matter how careful you may be, eventually, leftover food is going to find its way out of a garbage bag and get stuck in your trash bin. Over time, this garbage will begin to rot and end up sticking to the interior of your bin. When this happens, it makes your trash can a magnet for pests such as flies, spiders, mice, ants, and more. These creatures will learn that they’ve got a steady food source on your property, so they’ll begin to show up more frequently and in greater numbers.

Having a pressure cleaning company clean your trash bin will eliminate anything that pests can munch on. There won’t be anything for insects and rodents to eat, and they’ll have to look elsewhere for their next meal.

Get Rid Of Foul Odors

Garbage stinks, which is one reason we keep a trash bin outside to collect it. But the longer that trash can goes without being cleaned, the more likely it is to contain pieces of food and other filth that can begin rotting and emitting horrendous odors. A dirty trash bin can eventually cause your entire property to stink, and that doesn’t do your quality of life any favors.

Trash can cleaning by experienced professionals will deodorize your wheelie bin and save your nostrils from foul odors. A clean trash can won’t stink up your property, and you’ll love not having to cover your nose every time you take out the garbage.

Protect Your Health

Garbage isn’t the only thing that trash bins collect. It should come as no surprise that trash cans often contain harmful germs and bacteria when they haven’t been cleaned often enough.

Keeping your trash bin clean can protect you and your family from catching an avoidable illness. Pressure cleaning companies use robust cleaning agents that will disinfect and sanitize your trash can to promote a healthier living environment for you and your family.

For dependable and affordable trash can cleaning in Toowoomba, call Pressure Up House Washing Services at 0 415 591 825.

For most people, house washing can seem like a way to lose money rather than save money. To them, keeping their sidings clean is, at most, a way to feel better about how their house looks. What many don’t realize is that professional house washing – when done by a reliable pressure cleaning company – is actually an excellent way to save money.

Pressure cleaning technicians use specialized house washing equipment that removes what DIY methods can’t. While it’s true that you have to fork over money to hire these companies, it’s essential to keep in mind that a professional service will pay for itself over time.

Protect Your Sidings So They Can Last Longer

Did you know that besides hurting the visual appeal of your home, dirt, grime, and other contaminants can weaken and shorten the lifespan of your sidings? Even though most house sidings are coated with a protective weather sealant, keeping them clean is still crucial. Organic materials and other substances can slowly eat away at sealant, and once they’ve done that, they’ll then begin to destroy the surface material beneath.

Expert pressure cleaning can give your sidings a thorough clean and eliminate any harmful substances attached to them. By doing so, house washing keeps your sidings strong and prevents premature degradation and future weather damage.

Prevent Your Property Value From Falling

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a home, so if you’ve got one, it’s in your best interest to ensure it maintains its value. Unfortunately, house sidings are prone to getting filthy, and these surfaces are often the first thing anyone will see when they take a look at your property. Curb appeal is closely tied to property value, and if your home looks like it hasn’t been maintained, that’s going to hurt its appraisal price.

One of the best benefits of professional house washing is its ability to make homes look brand new again. You’ll love the appearance of your house after all the dirt and grime have been erased, and you’ll protect or even raise your property value.

Avoid Illness By Disinfecting Your Sidings

It shouldn’t come as a shock that house sidings collect germs and bacteria just as much as they do eyesores such as dust and dirt. Filthy sidings play host to all types of illness-causing particles, and it doesn’t take much for them to spread to other areas of your home.

Nobody enjoys falling ill because that’s time lost that could be better spent doing other things. Thankfully, professional house washing teams such as Pressure Up House Washing Services use advanced cleaning solutions that will disinfect all of your house sidings. You’ll love being able to rest easy, knowing your home is a healthy space for you and your loved ones.

Are you looking to have your home cleaned up and beautiful again? If you’re in Toowoomba, contact the house washing experts at Pressure Up House Washing Services for a free estimate today!

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