How to clean solar panels?

Solar panel cleaning – what to do, and what NOT to do!

Why do solar panels need cleaning? To improve your solar panel’s performance and reliability! Let us explain.

Clean solar panels

Solar panels are exposed to harsh weather conditions, so cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your system and making sure you’re getting the most out of your investment.

Solar panels maintenance

Solar panels typically don’t require much maintenance other than periodic cleaning and keeping them free from obstacles that can cast shadows over the panels. Solar panels need an unobstructed path to the sun to operate optimally. Solar panels are designed to withstand extreme weather events like hail, snow, ice, and wind to provide lasting performance. Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years with regular maintenance, but should you start to see a dip in their output, it might signal it’s time to clean them. You will need water, soap, a soft brush, and a squeegee, these are all the basic things you will need when cleaning solar panels. You can order solar system maintenance and other services by contacting the solar installation company.

Solar panel cleaning schedule

If you’ve had solar panels installed in your home, there is probably one question that has been burning at the back of your head – how often should I clean my solar panels? Regular professional cleaning is an essential part of solar panel maintenance and something you will need within the first year of installation, as clean panels are more efficient and will get you the most bang for your buck. Solar panels should be cleaned 4-5 times a year, including snow removal. By the way, in the second year of installing the panels, it becomes more important to clean them because they start to wear out to a certain extent. The panels' efficiency increases by 7-9% after each cleaning.

Solar panel efficiency

Solar-cell efficiency refers to the portion of energy in the form of sunlight that can be converted via photovoltaics into electricity by the solar cell

Solar panels' gentle cleaning methods

To avoid damaging your panels while cleaning them, make sure you use the proper supplies. Do not use:

• Harsh soaps such as strong detergents or soaps that contain chemicals can be corrosive to the solar panel unit’s surface
• Rough cleaning instruments such as abrasive cloths and sponges, or heavily toothed brooms can scratch the surface of your panels

 Conclusion

Before jumping up on your roof with your cleaning gear and good intentions, stop and consider your safety first. Solar modules which you purchased from the company that installs the station, have specifics, and cleaning them also requires certain skills. However, for your safety and comfort, it's best to have a solar company's service professionals whom you trust to clean your solar panels while minimizing damage to them.