How to Clean Solar Panels?

Solar panels generate clean energy. But, they require proper maintenance. Only then they can operate efficiently for a long time. One important aspect of maintenance is regular cleaning. This is for the best performance. Now check How to clean solar panels.

Cleaning Instructions

For proper maintenance keep these tips in mind:

Use Gentle Cleaners:

1.  Avoid harsh chemicals and rough tools. They can damage the surface.

2.  This can reduce their effectiveness.

3.  This can affect warranties.

4.  Instead, opt for gentle cleaners.

5.  You can use outdoor glass cleaner.

6.  You may also use a mixture of mild dish soap and water.

 

Check With The Manufacturer:

• Check the renewable energy company and different panel manufacturers may have specific guidelines or restrictions for cleaning methods and products.

Inspect Regularly:

• Do regular inspections.
• This can help to check any build-up of dirt.
• If you notice soiling or shading then clean the panels

 

How Often to Clean?

Before we tell you how to clean solar panels let us check how frequently to clean them. This depends on several factors. Always clean the panels if they look dirty.

This is when repeated cleaning is needed

1.  In areas with high levels of dust, pollen, or pollution

2.  Regions with dry climates or low rainfall may have more build up of dirt and debris

3.  Trees and nearby vegetation can result in the accumulation of leaves, pollen, and bird droppings.

 

Safety First

Take care of the safety part during the cleaning process.

Ladder Safety:

• If you are using a ladder then it must be stable.
• It must be securely positioned.
• Have someone hold the ladder for stability.
• Always use caution when climbing or descending.

Protection:

• Wear proper protective equipment.
• Use non-slip shoes or boots, gloves, and safety glasses.

Weather:  

• Avoid cleaning during bad weather.
• Do not clean during high winds or thunderstorms.
• It can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

 

Cleaning Process

Now we will see How to clean solar panels. Follow a systematic process. This is for proper cleaning. It is also to avoid damage to the panels. The steps that you have to follow are

Prepare:

• Gather all necessary tools and materials
• Take a gentle cleaning solution,
• You must also have a soft brush or sponge
• Use a soft cloth
• Take a stable ladder or platform for accessing the panels.

 

Turn Off Power:

• Before beginning the cleaning process, turn off the power to the system
• This is to avoid the risk of electrical shock.

 

Rinse:

• Use a garden hose with a spray attachment to remove loose debris and dirt from the surface of the solar panels and the surrounding area.
• This will help loosen any dirt.

 

Apply Cleaning Solution:

• Prepare a cleaning solution.
• For this mix mild dish soap or an outdoor glass cleaner with water.
• Take this in a spray bottle or garden sprayer.
• Apply the cleaning solution evenly to the surface of the panels.
• Focus on areas with visible dirt.

 

Scrub:

• Gently scrub the surface of the solar panels.
• For this use a soft brush or sponge.
• This is to remove dirt and debris.
• Avoid using harsh tools or tough scrubbing motions.
• They can scratch or damage the panels.

 

Rinse Again:

• Once the panels have been scrubbed clean, rinse them with clean water
• This is to remove any remaining soap residue or debris.

 

Dry:

• Use a soft cloth to dry the surface of the panels.
• Remove any excess water or moisture.
• This will prevent streaking
• You will get a clean and shiny finish

 

Additional Tips

Timing:

• Do the cleaning early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• At this time the temperatures are cooler.
• So the panels are not exposed to direct sunlight.
• This will help prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly.
• This will help in avoiding streaks or residue.

 

Washers:

• Pressure washers generate high-pressure streams of water.
• This can damage the surface of the panels.
• Water can penetrate the seals.
• Water may enter into the system.
• This can cause electrical hazards.
• Opt for gentler cleaning methods instead.

 

Check for Damage:

• While cleaning inspect for any signs of damage.
• Check for cracks, chips, or corrosion.
• If you notice any issues, contact a qualified solar panel technician.
• He will check and repair it.

 

Why Cleaning of The Panels Is Needed?

1.  Solar panels have photovoltaic cells.

2.  They convert sunlight into electricity.

3.  These cells are made of silicon.

4.  They are kept inside a glass casing.

5.  When sunlight falls on the panel, the cells generate an electric current.

6.  This is converted into electricity.

7.  If the surface of the panel is dirty or obstructed, it can block the absorption of sunlight.

8.  This can reduce its efficiency.

9.  This can cause a loss of energy production.

10.  This affects the performance and output of the system.

When to Call a Professional

Cleaning solar panels looks easy. But still, it is better to call experts. They have the right tools. They also know the correct process for cleaning the solar system.

While choosing the expert you can check online. You can even look for references. Compare the services. Choose one that is as per your needs. Select the company that has worked on many projects.

You have to select the right company for good services. At Solar Sky, we have trained professionals. They can carry out the cleaning process properly. We provide solar panel installation and cleaning services at affordable rates. Tell us about your requirement and we shall provide the details.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning maintains the efficiency of the panels. It improves the performance of solar panels. Follow the tips and guidelines to clean them properly. This will improve the energy output of your solar panel system. We have provided the details about the cleaning of the panels. Follow the same. It will improve the working of the panels.

For professional help contact us at Solar Sky. We can provide the details about solar panel installation. You can also contact us for the maintenance of the solar set-up. We have worked on several solar installation projects. Contact us now.