Why Should I Clean My Solar Panels?

YES, you have decided on a photovoltaic solar installation, you are likely to think: “what should I do in terms of its maintenance”? Logically, you ask yourself this question, because after all, you have just made an investment, and the logical thing is to want to make it profitable. Photovoltaic panels are made up of silicon cells, an element characterized by their high resistance. This makes it perfect for withstanding even extreme weather conditions, such as hail. However, although the plates are not at great risk of damage, it is necessary to pay attention to making the most of the photon flux solar panels’ maintenance—the main reason to ensure that the system is in tip-top shape.

Cleaning the Panels

To prevent dirt from accumulating on the panels, when studying the solar installation, the installation company must consider the proximity of trees, roads, and other factors that may harm production. It is necessary to clean the panels at least once a year to ensure their optimal performance. Generally, the rain keeps them clean the rest of the time except in specific cases. These cases would be, for example, a facility near a road or a place where more dust is produced. Cleaning can be done using a damp cloth, in the same way as glass would be cleaned.

How Should the Solar Panels Be Cleaned?

Cleaning the solar panels is a task with greater importance than it may seem and should be done by following a few simple tips. If you already have a self-consumption installation or you’re thinking about putting solar panels on your house’s roof, surely you have already realized that, with time, a layer is deposited on the surface of the glass of dirt. It is important to know how to clean solar panels. This occurs due to the suspended dust in the environment, which the further south, the more frequent it is. Also, bird droppings, pollen from flowers, tree leaves, and so on… Also, it can significantly reduce the performance of solar panels.

In accumulated dirt situations, such as the one in the previous image, losses of 50% can occur over the expected production of a solar panel. So, as you can see, removing the dirt accumulated on the solar panels is very important. To clean solar panels, you will need three simple tools:

1. A bucket of water, if it can be warm better, with a drop of soap (very little soap to avoid foam).
2. A cloth or a polyester brush with thick bristles to avoid scratching the panel glass.
3. If they are somewhat inaccessible, you can help yourself with a pole and placing the brush at one end.

With only those materials, you are ready to clean, and that your installation of solar panels for self-consumption produces energy at its maximum capacity, which is recommended to do at least 3 or 4 times a year, with each change of season, for example.

How Should a Correct Cleaning of the Photovoltaic Panels Be Done?

Once you have described the utensils that you will need, now simply, to clean your photovoltaic panels properly, you should do the following:

1. Wet the solar panels beforehand so that the dirt is soaked and it is easier to remove it.
2. Dampen the rag or brush in the bucket.
3. Clean the solar panel with the cloth or brush, making a zig-zag to collect the dirt. Like you’re cleaning a window.
4. Wipe the dirt off the rag or brush and start over.

Don’t use abrasive soaps or liquids as they could damage the surface of the panel. Also, try not to use any cleaning utensil that could scratch the glass of the solar panel.

As you can see, the solar panels’ maintenance is simple but vital for the system’s performance to be optimal. If you are looking for professionals to clean your solar panels, get in touch with QUALITY WINDOW WASHERS LLC! With skill and precision, they will clean your solar panels for optimal effectiveness and zero damage!