You don’t invest in solar panels to look fancy; you invest in them to save money in the future and get free electricity after the payback period. Therefore, the solar panel efficiency is crucial to get a better ROI. Solar panel cleaning can help you maintain the efficiency and ensure that the panels get better sunlight exposure.
When you think of cleaning the solar panel, you might be thinking of the following:
- How to clean solar panels?
- What solar panel cleaning tools should I use?
- What precautions should I take when cleaning solar panels?
If you are new to solar panel cleaning, it could be a daunting experience. Therefore, we are sharing this guide to help you clean your solar panel effortlessly. If you are still overwhelmed, contact us for our solar panel maintenance service.
The solar panel cleaning can be a cumbersome process sometimes, so why should you bother with it?
What are the benefits of solar panel cleaning?
Let’s understand why it’s important to clean your solar panel.
- Better efficiency: The solar panel is made with solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. Therefore, when dirt, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris accumulate on the solar panel, the solar cells don’t get the sunlight exposure. This directly affects the output and efficiency of the solar panel. You’ll get less electricity, leading to an extended payback period.
- Get better ROI: When your solar cells don’t get the necessary sunlight exposure, their outputs are low. Therefore, it might take more time to cover the initial investment and get free electricity through solar panels. The dirt and debris might also damage the solar panel, which will further increase the payback period.
- Identify flaws early: With regular solar panel maintenance, you can ensure that all solar panel system components are working well, identify any flaws early, and save on a bigger repair expense.
When should you clean the solar panels?
Ideally, you should clean your solar panels once or twice a year. However, the cleaning period depends on your location. The following is a short guide to help you get an estimated time for a special occasion when you must clean the solar panels.
- Urban areas with minimal trees: Once or twice a year should do
- Rural or areas with lots of sand: 3 to 4 months to remove the accumulated sand
- Area surrounded by trees: Remove the leaves and small branches weekly to avoid long-term damage, and deep clean it every 4-6 months.
- Rainy regions: You can let the rain wash its way, but deep clean it once or twice a year. In case of heavy rain, remove the excessive water using a soft cloth or a squeegee.
- Sandstorm or heavy rain: Immediately after the storm settles down, ensure solar panels are not damaged and remove the dirt and excessive water.
How to clean solar panels?
Solar panel cleaning cost can save you a lot more money in the long term. Therefore, here’s the guide on cleaning your solar panel system. If you need help, solar panel companies like Sunora Solar can help you with maintenance for the best solar panel efficiency.
Switch off the solar panel system
The first step is to switch off the connection to the solar panel. It helps you clean it better, avoids any damage to the solar cells, and saves you from getting an electric shock.
Ensure that you have safety gear
Use a sturdy ladder to get on the rooftop (if you have rooftop solar panels) or use the harness (if you have wall-mounted solar panels). Ensure that you wear slip-resistant shoes, rubber gloves, and a helmet to avoid injury. You must hire a professional solar panel cleaning service provider if you have a large solar panel system.
Use a dry mop/fabric to remove the dust buildup
Now that you are ready, pick up a mop or a soft fabric to gently remove dry dirt. Also, remove any debris, leaves, and branches, if there are any. It will ensure that water doesn’t settle on the spot. It will remove the majority of the dirt on the solar panel.
Spray water with gentle pressure
Use a hose with low pressure to clean the solar panel. Do not use high pressure because it will damage the solar cell. Additionally, use soft water as hard water or salted water might lead to corrosion. While clean water is enough, you can add a solar panel and a special solution for better cleaning. For bird dropping, use gentle pressure with a cloth or mop.
Remove excessive moisture with a soft cloth or squeegee
Use a clean, dry, soft cloth or squeegee with gentle pressure to remove the excessive water. It will ensure that the water doesn’t leave any marks.
What precautions should be taken for solar panel cleaning?
- Always use sturdy ladders, a safety harness, a protective helmet, and gloves when cleaning a solar panel.
- Avoid using harsh chemical products like soap and detergent. Plain water or a special solar panel cleaning solution will do the job.
- Don’t use the cleaning tools roughly, as it will damage the solar panels.
- Turn off the solar system to avoid any electric shocks and damage.
- Don’t stand or lean on your solar panel, as it can damage the setup and the delicate solar cells.
If you follow these simple steps, you’ll be easily able to clean the solar panels. However, it is advised to schedule professional solar cleaning and maintenance service for better cleaning and identifying any problems in the system at an early stage. Sunora Solar is here to help you with our solar panel maintenance service. Contact us to know more.
Conclusion
Solar panel cleaning can help you maintain its efficiency and get a better ROI. In this guide, we discussed how often you should clean your solar panel based on the location and some precautions for cleaning solar panels. Always switch off the solar panel before you set up the safety gear and ladder. First, dry clean it with a soft mop or fabric. Then, use a gentle hose to spray water and remove all dirt. Then use dry, gentle fabric or a squeegee to remove excessive water. Contact Sunora Solar for expert maintenance and solar panel cleaning services.
FAQ
Why should I clean solar panels?
A clean solar panel improves sunlight exposure, leading to better efficiency and ROI. Cleaning also helps identify any flaws in the early stage to avoid any significant repair expenses.
Can I spray water on my solar panel for cleaning?
Yes, you can spray water on a solar panel for cleaning. But ensure that the water is soft (without any harsh chemicals) and that you spray it at low pressure.
Do I need solar panel maintenance service?
While you can clean the solar panels on your own, expert solar panel cleaning and maintenance service providers save you the hassle and do the job thoroughly. They can also help you identify any problems in the early stages to fix them before they affect the efficiency of the solar panel.
What not to do when cleaning a solar panel?
When cleaning the solar panel, do not:
- Use harsh soaps and detergents
- Lean or step on the solar panel
- Keep the solar panel system on
- Use harsh tools and fabrics
- Go up on the rooftop without safety gear and a sturdy ladder
