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Solar panel cleaning:
A beginner’s guide
Make your own solar panel cleaning system with our tips
Introduction
Did you know- proper cleaning of solar panels can boost their efficiency by up to 5-10%. While rain helps remove some dirt, occasional manual cleaning ensures optimal performance. Before grabbing your cleaning supplies, consider whether cleaning is necessary. Over time, the accumulation of dirt, dust, and debris can obstruct this light, thereby reducing your panel’s efficiency. This calls for cleaning time!
If you’re someone who is new to solar panel cleaning, here is the ultimate beginner’s guide for you.
Why and when to clean your solar panels
Ideally, you should clean your solar panels periodically. The belief that if it rains, you don’t need to clean your solar panels prevails. But that is not entirely true; sometimes rain might carry dust or cause staining on the panels, leading to reduced efficiency.
If you live in particularly windy or sandy regions, or places with stormy weather, your panels might require cleaning more often. Having your panels installed close to particularly deciduous trees can also prompt periodic cleaning.
Additionally, if you notice dips in the energy output, that could also mean it’s time to put your gloves on.
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you’ll need professional assistance every few months. You can make your own solar panel cleaning system at home. Here is everything you need to know.
If you’re asking yourself “Why do I need to clean my solar panels”, here are a few reasons that will convince you:
What to use to clean solar panels: Make your solar panel cleaning system at home
Now that you’re ready to take on the task, it is suggested that to clean solar panels safely, start early morning or evening when panels are cool. Never use abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or pressure washers that could damage the panels. Here are all the tools and materials you need:
1. A mild cleaning solution designed for photovoltaic cells
2. Low-pressure water hose
3. Soft brush, cotton mop, or sponge for the panel surface
4.Hand wiper
5. Gloves
6. Steady ladder (and/or harness if required)
7. PPE for complete safety
Cleaning with soft brush and mild soap liquid
Steps to clean your solar panels
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your solar panels at home:
Step 1
Start by switching off the power to eliminate the risk of unwanted shock. This is not mandatory, but advisable.
Step 2
Wipe of the surface of the panels with a soft, dry mop. This will ensure that no dust sticks to the panels when water is poured
Step 3
Hose off any dry leaves, bird droppings, dirt, etc., at a low pressure
Step 4
Dip your sponge in the cleaning solution and softly wipe the panels. Don’t resort to harsh scrubbing as this can disrupt the functioning of the cells or even damage the panel entirely
Step 5
Hose of the solution slowly. While the tilt of the panel with remove almost all the water, gently wipe of any remnants to prevent staining.
Once done, let your panels dry. If you’re experiencing humid or rainy weather, you can use a soft cloth to mop the panels. And now that your panels are back on autopilot, sit back and enjoy your green electricity
Safety precautions and considerations to follow for cleaning solar panels
1. Use a steady ladder to climb the roof
2. Before climbing, check that your rooftop is strong enough to bear your weight for a long time
3. Turn off the solar panels before starting to reduce the risk of electric shock.
4. Use soft water with less than 250 ppm; hard water has minerals that can settle on the surface
5. Avoid harsh cleaning solutions that can cause abrasions to the cells
6. Avoid high pressure washers; a gentle flow is recommended
7. Choose a cool day or cooler hour since hot solar panels might be an uncomfortable experience. The high temperature might cause the soap to stick to the hot surface, leading to staining
8. Most importantly, do not stand or lean on your solar panels
9. If accessing your roof feels unsafe, do consider hiring a professional solar panel cleaning service provider
Bottom line
It is imperative to inspect your solar setup to maintain their operation. If needed, don’t fret from calling professionals. Tata Power Solar’s comprehensive after-sale services will ensure that your sustainable solar system is always top-notch. Just a call away, their professionals are happy to help. Their unparalleled experience and tech knowledge gives them an edge over the rest. Looking for a new setup or a maintenance session?
1. Use a steady ladder to climb the roof
2. Before climbing, check that your rooftop is strong enough to bear your weight for a long time
3. Turn off the solar panels before starting to reduce the risk of electric shock.
4. Use soft water with less than 250 ppm; hard water has minerals that can settle on the surface
5. Avoid harsh cleaning solutions that can cause abrasions to the cells
6. Avoid high pressure washers; a gentle flow is recommended
7. Choose a cool day or cooler hour since hot solar panels might be an uncomfortable experience. The high temperature might cause the soap to stick to the hot surface, leading to staining
8. Most importantly, do not stand or lean on your solar panels
9. If accessing your roof feels unsafe, do consider hiring a professional solar panel cleaning service provider
Frequently asked questions
- FAQs
One should never pressure wash solar panels. It is important to note that while they are solid and resilient, the PV cell circuits can get easily disrupted due to unwanted pressure. When cleaning the setup, always go for a gentle flow with a soft hand
For adequate maintenance, it is important to clean your solar panels at least every six months. But regular visits from professionals are also needed to ensure optimal performance and durability of the setup. You can also call for professional help in case you find stubborn stains like bird droppings or hard water deposits, or if your roof feels too high or inaccessible for you.
A soft mop or sponge can come handy for cleaning the panel surface. Presently, solar panel cleaning brushes and mops are also available. With a long handle and dual cleaning heads, they make the job much easier.
Solar panels are one of the best forms of investment—once installed, they pay for themselves in the form on savings within the next 4-5 years. Tata Power, for instance, provides custom solar solutions for as low as INR 20,000. So not only are you going green, you’re also saving the greens.
Solar panels generate electricity through sun’s light, not heat. This means that as long as the cells receive light, they will generate electricity. Thus, solar panels work in winters, although at a reduced capacity. To know more about solar panel operation in winters.
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