Solar panels are made of glass, which like all glass, gets dirty sometimes. Small amounts of grime will not affect your solar panels’ output much and are likely to be washed away the next time there is a rain shower in Peck.

However, in less rainy periods – or when an unusual eventlike home renovation creates a lot of dust in the air — you may want to clean your solar panels. It’s not a difficult task when done the right way. Find out how.

1. Clean in the morning while the day is still cool, if possible. Once the sun has heated up your solar panels, contact with cold water can easily crack them.

2. Stay safe: Turn off your solar system before you begin and use a sturdy ladder to access your roof.

3. Be gentle with the panels to prevent scratching or breaking. Pressure washing and abrasive cleaningproducts are not advised, since they can do damage. (A regular garden hose is fine, though.)

4. Start by removing heavy dust with a soft dry brush or cloth.

5. Follow up by washing the panel surface. Leave the wiring alone! Some experts recommend using distilled water, which will not leave a residue. A glass cleaner such as Windex is also good, but it can get expensive because you will have to use a large amount. The best products are a sponge, warm water, a mild dishwashing liquid and perhaps a little vinegar.