Solar Panel Coating Questions and Answers

Find answers about SolarProtect, SolarRestore, SolarClean and SolarSink, including product selection, surface preparation and ongoing maintenance.

What is SolarProtect?

SolarProtect (ECS 5003) is a clear, solvent-based hydrophobic nanoceramic coating formulated for solar panels and greenhouses. It creates a thin, slick protective surface designed to make maintenance easier. Explore SolarProtect.

How do SolarClean, SolarRestore and SolarProtect differ?

SolarClean (ECS 101) is a concentrated surface cleaner used before coating. SolarRestore (ECS 5001) is a nanoceramic protectant used for annual protection or maintenance of an existing SolarProtect coating. SolarProtect (ECS 5003) is the longer-term protective coating in our system. Compare the cleaning and coating systems.

What is SolarSink?

SolarSink is our heat-diffusion nanoceramic coating. It serves a different purpose from the SolarProtect surface-protection system. Contact us to discuss whether it is suitable for your project and where it should be applied. Learn about SolarSink.

How should panels be prepared before coating?

Remove physical contaminants such as bird droppings, oils and sap, then clean and rinse the surface according to the product instructions. The surface must remain clean before coating. If panels are not hand-dried, use mineral-free rinse water to avoid leaving mineral deposits that can interfere with bonding.

Does SolarClean need to be diluted?

Yes. The published dilution for SolarClean (ECS 101) is 0.5 fluid ounce per gallon of clean water. Rinse after cleaning. SolarProtect (ECS 5003) is supplied for use without dilution. Follow the instructions for the specific product you are applying.

How soon after cleaning should a coating be applied?

Rinse away SolarClean thoroughly and allow panels to dry completely. We recommend applying SolarProtect within 24 hours of cleaning. That may extend to a maximum of three days if the weather stays rain-free and panels remain clean. Remove any new dust, pollen, sap or other buildup before applying the sealer, even if it has not rained. For other products, follow their application instructions.

When can coated panels be washed again?

Our system guidance recommends avoiding washing for 5 to 7 days after applying SolarProtect or SolarRestore to allow the coating to cure. Dry-to-touch time is different from full cure time. Check the product instructions and account for application conditions.

Do coated solar panels still need cleaning?

Yes. A coating is part of a maintenance plan. Continue inspecting and cleaning the panels as needed. Cleaning frequency depends on the location, weather and type of contamination.

How is SolarProtect maintained?

Our published system guidance calls for annual cleaning with SolarClean and maintenance with SolarRestore to refresh the coated surface. The need for further SolarProtect application depends on the coating’s condition. Contact us for guidance on your installation.

Will a coating work with my panels and their existing surface treatment?

Send us the panel manufacturer, model and any information about the existing surface coating so we can discuss suitability. Review the panel manufacturer’s care and warranty requirements before adding a surface treatment.

How much product will my project require, and how do I request pricing?

Contact us with the panel count, panel dimensions or total surface area, location, surface condition and intended application method. We can help select a system and estimate product quantities. Request product guidance and pricing.

Can SolarClean and SolarProtect be sprayed without wiping, including by drone?

We have used spray application in the field, but drone application has not been tested. Begin with a small trial area to assess cleaning results, material use, coverage and coating uniformity. The trial will help determine whether spraying alone is sufficient or whether the process needs adjustment. SolarClean still requires thorough rinsing, and panels must be completely dry before SolarProtect is applied. Contact us to plan the trial.

Are multiple SolarProtect passes or coats required?

Use a trial area to determine the passes needed to achieve the coverage and film thickness in the application instructions. Use an overlapping pattern and avoid heavy buildup, which can cause deposits, streaking or curing problems. Multiple spray passes are different from a full second coat. Most SolarProtect applications require only one coat. A full second coat is necessary only when site-specific environmental conditions call for additional protection. If a second coat is needed, allow the first coat to cure before applying it. SolarProtect is used as supplied and should not be diluted.

Does SolarProtect guarantee that snow and ice will not accumulate?

No. SolarProtect is intended to reduce how strongly snow and ice adhere so they can release more easily. Results depend on weather, panel angle, frame design and application. Raised frames can still retain snow or ice along the lower edge and sides. A site trial is the best way to evaluate performance under your conditions; coated panels should not be expected to remain completely snow- and ice-free.

Need help choosing a system?

Tell us about your project. Email solar@eco-coatsolutions.com, call (612) 314-3999, or use our contact form.