Solar Panel Cleaning: Why You Should Do It
Cleaning solar panels is often perceived as a dirty and laborious job but is an absolute necessity to remove dirt and debris. Solar panel cleaning service takes time and often requires skilled professionals.
Why Clean Solar Panels?
Cleaning solar panels is not only to ensure its ‘spick and span’ look. Though a cleaned system looks like a new purchase and so, is one of the purposes of periodic cleaning. However, the most important aspect of cleaning is keeping your system in the optimal working condition.
Solar panels are exposed to harsh weather elements. Hence, it is quite natural for them to get dirty. Do you know that not cleaning solar panels regularly and properly can reduce their functioning by up to 5-10%? Rain removes some dirt naturally but such occasional cleaning cannot keep your system in peak condition around the year.
Therefore, for optimal performance, there is no alternative to frequent cleaning. Once the dirt, debris and dust accumulate on solar panels, these create a thick layer over time, if not cleaned timely and properly. As a result, these obstruct natural light and reduce the system’s performance.
Periodic cleaning is a must-do for you. A popular belief is heavy rain is enough to wash away dust and debris but that’s not true. Sometimes, rain brings dust with it and/or causes stains on the panels. In either of the cases, it always results in reduced efficiency.
If your residential area receives a lot of storms or sand, you might need to clean the panel more often. If your solar panel is installed close to a deciduous tree, periodic cleaning is necessary. Furthermore, any drop in energy efficiency means it is high time to put your gloves on.
Cleaning a solar panel does not necessarily mean asking for professional help every few months. However, hiring professionals once a year or a couple of years is necessary for better checking of your system.
To sum up, regular cleaning ensures:
Direct sunlight as much as possible, delivering optimum efficiency
Extended lifespan of your panels
Improved plant efficiencies
Avoidance of hot spots
Faster and better ROI through improved efficiency
Last but not least, certain manufacturers require frequent rooftop solar panel cleaning as a part of their warranty offer.
What Do You Need for Solar Panel Cleaning?
Now if you are convinced of the importance of regular cleaning, you can do it yourself. Do the work in the early morning or late evening when the panels feel cool. Refrain from using harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or pressure washers to avoid damaging the panels.
Here is a list of tools that you will require for cleaning:
A mild cleaning solution made for cleaning photovoltaic cells
Cotton map or sponge, soft brush to clean panel surface
Low-pressure water hose
Hand wiper
Gloves
Steady ladder
Harness
PPE
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