A dirty solar panel reduces energy output. Regular cleaning is important to prevent debris buildup, which can also affect solar panels’ performance.
Before cleaning your solar panels, shut down the system per the instruction manual. You will also need to wear PPE with the correct rating for your country. Contact Solar Panel Cleaning Austin now!
The simplest way to remove loose debris from solar panels is with a quick rinse from a garden hose. This is particularly important for preventing the formation of microscopic cracks in the glass surface that can obstruct sunlight absorption and compromise performance.
For stubborn dirt buildup that doesn’t rinse away, a mild soap solution can be applied to the panels using a non-abrasive sponge. The best time to do this is early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler and prevent thermal shock that can damage the panels.
A common mistake is to over-clean a solar panel system, as this can remove the natural oil and protective layer that keeps them lustrous. This can cause the panels to become dull and reduce their ability to absorb light, reducing energy production. A professional can help homeowners determine how often their systems should be cleaned and provide the appropriate cleaning schedule.
A variety of factors can affect the frequency of solar panel cleanings, including geography and landscape. For example, arid regions that don’t experience regular rain can accumulate dirt and debris more quickly than other areas. In addition, solar panels installed at a steeper angle tend to collect less dirt than those set at a lower angle. Also, if your home is located near pollen-rich trees or other plants that release sticky residues such as pine needles, the panels may need to be cleaned more frequently. Finally, the proximity of your solar panels to major roads, a highway, airport, or other industrial facilities can increase their exposure to traffic dust and pollutants that can cling to the surface.
Preparation
It is important to understand that cleaning solar panels on a regular basis is vital to maintain optimal performance. Over time, dust and grime will accumulate on the surface of solar panels and affect energy production. This means that fewer solar cells will be able to produce power, so more electricity will need to flow through each cell to get the same amount of current as before. This can quickly add up and significantly increase the overall cost of your solar system.
To clean your solar panels, start by preparing the work area. Make sure you have access to a ladder and the proper safety equipment. Wearing the correct rated personal protective equipment (PPE) is especially important as working at heights can be dangerous. This includes a harness and fall arrest equipment when using a ladder. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast prior to working as sudden temperature changes can stress panels.
Once the area is safe and accessible, fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of Simple Green or other solar panel cleaning solution. Scrub the panels with a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to use too much pressure as this could scratch the surface of the solar panels. After scrubbing, rinse the panels with a normal garden hose or low-pressure system.
Solar panel cleaning is a fairly easy and affordable process that can be done on a regular basis to help keep solar systems at peak performance. It is recommended to clean solar panels at least once per year and possibly twice if your home is near farms, construction sites, or airports. These types of environments typically see more dust and airborne debris than other areas.
Cleaning
Depending on your area’s weather conditions and solar design, you may not need to clean your solar panels at all. But if your solar panels are prone to dirt, dust, bird poop, or other obstructions that can diminish their energy production, then a good cleaning is in order.
A gentle cleaning with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge, plus a standard garden hose, is all you need to keep your solar panels sparkling clean and running at maximum capacity. It is best to use filtered water rather than regular tap water to avoid mineral buildup and prevent spotty or streaky solar panel surfaces.
Before you start, be sure to turn off your solar system at the breaker or disconnect switch to avoid risk of electric shock and to reduce the chance of damaging your panel surface. It’s also a good idea to check your warranty information for any specific guidelines or restrictions on cleaning. It’s important to choose a safe time for the cleaning process such as early morning or late afternoon when your panels are cool and less likely to crack or damage.
Be careful not to over-clean your solar panels, as you could remove the protective film coating that helps them withstand harsh UV rays and resist heat. Once you have cleaned a section of your solar panels, use a squeegee or a clean, lint-free cloth to dry the section completely. This will help to prevent water spots or streaks from forming on the panels as the water evaporates. After the solar panels are dry, reactivate your solar system and monitor your energy output to ensure that your solar panels are producing the same or better level of power as before the cleaning.
Rinsing
As a solar panel owner, you should clean your panels as regularly as you’d wash windows. The process is pretty straightforward: a hose or low-pressure power washer with a bucket of soap solution, a soft brush and scrubber, and a microfiber cloth or squeegee. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or bleach, as they can damage or discolor the glass surface. You also don’t want to use a pressure washer on the frame, as this can cause cracks or shift the ballasted mounting racks from their ideal positions, which may lead to electric hazards.
First, you’ll want to power off the system. This can usually be done from the panel inverter, although it will depend on your solar provider. Then, you’ll need to remove any substantial debris, such as leaves, bird droppings, or branches. A ladder may be required, depending on your roof setup.
Once you’ve cleaned the surface of your solar panels, rinse them thoroughly with a hose or low-pressure power washing machine to remove any remaining soap residue and dirt buildup. After the rinse, a microfiber cloth or squeegee can be used to dry the surface.
Ultimately, the most important factor in how often to clean your solar panels is how frequently you’re noticing a decrease in efficiency or output. However, the location and environmental conditions of your home are significant factors as well. For example, southwestern locales might require more frequent cleanings due to limited rainfall, while homes near airports or freeways may experience more dust and pollution buildup. A recent study found that keeping solar panels clean can boost their performance by about one percent.
Drying
If your solar panels are set up on a roof, you can clean them yourself using the long-handled brush and soap method. This involves turning off the energy system, then scrubbing each panel surface with water and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly. Be careful not to use high water pressure, as this can damage the glass. A soft-bristled brush is ideal, but you can also opt for a sponge or rag. It’s important to avoid scratching the panels, as any marks will reduce the energy production of your solar system.
You may only need to clean your solar panels a few times per year, but this depends on local conditions and your home’s design. For example, if you live near pine trees, pollen-rich plants, or a busy road, you’ll likely need to wash your panels more often. Likewise, your home’s position relative to the sun’s movement will influence how much dirt accumulates. Panels set up on a flat surface are more susceptible to dust accumulation, while those on a slope are less likely.
The amount of dirt and ash on your solar panels can significantly affect their performance. A buildup of sand or ash will block sunlight, and this can decrease energy output by up to 5%. It’s also possible that the accumulated debris will cause damage to the solar panel, which can lead to early breakdown and increased maintenance costs. A 5% reduction in energy production might not seem like a big deal, but over time this can add up and cost you a significant sum of money. This is why it’s crucial to make sure your solar panels are clean, as this will increase their longevity and improve their overall performance.