Though there are many benefits tied to installing solar panels within your home, they are also a significant investment. This means that in order to get the best ROI, you should endeavour to take good care of them which involves solar panel cleaning. Not only can this help you avoid costly maintenance issues (and fees), but it will also ensure they function as desired. Finally, cleaning your panels regularly also ensures that they look their best and do not detract from your home’s appearance.
In this article, we’ll break down the best practices that you can use to keep your Solar Panels in pristine condition.
Why Clean Your Solar Panels Regularly?
There are many reasons why you should clean your solar panels regularly.
For example, it is important to remember that they are continuously exposed to the elements, which means that they are naturally subject to some wear and tear. Though they are designed with this in mind, a build-up of dirt, dust, or debris can lower energy production. This is because the contaminants block the photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight and convert it into energy, meaning less energy is produced overall. In extreme cases, this can lead to power cuts or outages. On a similar note, neglecting to clean your solar panels can reduce their lifespan, which means that you need to replace them relatively quickly.
Preparing to Clean: What You Need
If you’ve decided that now is the perfect time to clean your solar panels, having the right equipment and tools to hand is key. This will ensure that your solar panels are as clean as possible while preventing any damage caused by using the wrong equipment.
To clean your solar panels, you’ll need some (or all) of the following:
- A non-abrasive sponge or cloth
- A squeegee
- A long-handed wiper
- A hose and nozzle
- Panel-safe cleaning products
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Generally speaking, it is advised that you bring in the professionals to carry out any work that is at height. This is because there are always safety risks associated with climbing or using ladders. However, if you have carried out this kind of project before or can access your roof safely, then you could try your hand at cleaning roof-mounted solar panels.
Cleaning Roof-Mounted Solar Panels from the Roof.
- Turn off your solar system before cleaning.
- Secure any ladders to ensure that you are in a safe position.
- Use a hose on a low/gentle setting to wash away any loose debris, dust, or dirt.
- Carefully apply your chosen cleaning solution/products using a squeegee or non-abrasive sponge/cloth.
- Gently wash away the cleaning product (and the dirt/grime) by brushing it down from the top of the solar panel. This ensures that there are no ‘streaks’ and that wastewater runs away from the panels themselves.
While it is less precise, you can also clean roof-mounted solar panels from the ground.
Cleaning Roof-Mounted Solar Panels from the Ground.
- Turn off your solar system before cleaning.
- Use a hose on a low/gentle setting to wash away loose debris, dust, or dirt.
- Carefully apply your chosen cleaning solution/products using a squeegee or soft sponge attached to a telescopic pole or similar device.
- Gently wash away the cleaning product (and the dirt/grime) by brushing downwards from the top of the solar panel.
You should always clean your solar panels when the weather is relatively mild. For example, while it should not be overly hot or sunny, it should not be raining, either. This is important from a safety perspective above all else!
Can You Clean Solar Panels Yourself Safely?
It is entirely possible to clean your solar panels yourself without putting your health and safety at risk. For example, you can clean roof-mounted solar panels from the ground, so you do not even have to step foot on a ladder.
However, if you’re comfortable working at height, you can ensure your safety by ensuring that you remain focused on the task you are doing. This will ensure that you always err on the side of caution. It is also advised that you clean your solar panels early in the morning or late at night when they are least likely to be ‘hot.’
If your solar panels are on the ground, you should still operate with safety in mind when cleaning them. For example, you should always make sure that your solar panels are turned off during this time, and you should avoid cleaning them when they are under direct sunlight.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Materials for Solar Panels
Generally speaking, you should use a gentle soap and water to clean your solar panels. While you may be tempted to use stronger cleaning products, this could damage the anti-reflective coating on their panels, lowering their efficiency even further. You can also find products that are specifically designed for cleaning solar panels online.
If you are still unsure which products you should (or should not) be using, re-read the manual provided by the manufacturer of the solar panels. This will likely provide you with some guidance moving forward.
How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?
The frequency at which you should clear your solar panels can vary depending on a variety of factors. For example, if you’ve recently experienced a bout of bad weather or live in a ‘dusty’ area (or one with a high pollen count), you’ll likely need to clean your panels more often than those who live outside of these areas.
The placement of your solar panels could also influence the amount of cleaning you should be prepared to carry out. For example, some studies have found that south or west-facing solar panels tend to accumulate more dust due to the amount of sun exposure they receive.
However, it is generally advised that you clean your solar panels at least once a year. This is particularly important, even if you do not notice any signs of damage or debris built up, as it is a great way to invest in the longevity of your solar panels and ensure they continue to function as desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Solar Panel Cleaning
There are many mistakes that you should avoid when attempting to clean your solar panels. This includes:
Using harsh chemicals on your solar panels. As mentioned above, you should always avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your solar panels, as this can
damage the anti-reflective coating of the panels, reducing their overall efficiency. You’ll likely be able to achieve great results using gentle soap and hot water.Using the wrong cleaning supplies. Using cleaning tools, such as stiff-bristled brushes, can scratch the surface of the solar panels, reducing their overall efficiency and aesthetic value.
Applying too much pressure on the panels themselves. Applying too much pressure when trying to manually clean solar panels which can cause structural damage. For example, it could cause the panel to crack or splinter.
Not turning off your solar panels before cleaning them. Forgetting to turn off your solar system before cleaning the panels and cleaning them under direct sunlight.
Not following health and safety best practices. Not taking the proper precautions to keep yourself (and others) safe when working at height is another common mistake. For example, you should make sure that ladders are secured and that you are wearing a harness (if necessary).
If you’re going to be cleaning your solar panels for the first time, you may find it useful to watch some tutorials online before getting started. This will increase your confidence in your cleaning skills and abilities while also ensuring that you master the techniques needed to execute this task successfully.
Enhance Your Solar Panel's Efficiency with Professional Help
Whether you’re worried about working at height or feel as though you’re simply not up to the task of cleaning your solar panels, then you should be sure to seek out professional help as soon as possible. Not only will this save you a great deal of time and energy, but it will also ensure that they are cleaned as thoroughly as possible. This can help to:
- Enhance the efficiency of your solar panels
- Ensure that all dirt, dust, and debris are removed
- Extend the lifespan of your solar panels
- Enhance the overall appearance of your solar panels
In short, bringing in professional help is often key to achieving the best possible results.
Final Thoughts.
If your solar panels were inside your home, you would not think twice about cleaning them. However, as they are often out of sight, they’re out of mind, too. While this may not seem like a major issue, a build-up of dust and dirt can quickly shorten the lifespan of solar panels while also lowering their efficiency and ability to produce energy. In short, it means that they will not function as desired.
As such, you should be sure to clean your panels regularly or reach out to experts who can carry out this work on your behalf.
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