Solar panels are an environmentally friendly technology that utilizes the sun's rays to convert into electricity, and there are many benefits to installing solar panels on your home, including reduced energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and increased home value. More and more homes and businesses are choosing to install solar panels to reduce their dependence on traditional energy sources.
Solar panels are very durable, with most lasting around 30 years. However, they are constantly exposed to the harsh outdoor elements and can easily accumulate dirt and debris. This dirt affects the amount of sunlight absorbed by the photovoltaic (PV) cells, which reduces the efficiency of solar energy conversion. To ensure that you get the most out of your investment,Β your solar panels must be cleaned and maintained. This article will cover simple steps and best practices on how to clean solar panels.
The Importance of Cleaning Solar Panels
More than other power generation systems, solar panels do not move after installation. Therefore dust is more likely to accumulate on its surface and is one of the most common contaminants on solar panels, it canΒ reduce the efficiency of solar panels. The following are the effects that dust has on solar panels:
- Blocking of light: The accumulation of a layer of dust creates a shading layer on the surface of the solar panel, blocking the incoming sunlight. This causes the solar panel to receive less light, which reduces its energy conversion efficiency.
- Heat buildup: Dust absorbs sunlight on the surface of the solar panel and converts it into heat. This causes the temperature of the solar panel to rise, and high temperatures reduce the efficiency and life of the panel.
- Impairment of current flow: The presence of dust causes unevenness on the surface of the solar panel and affects the flow of current through the panel. This can lead to power loss and reduced panel performance.
For solar panels, each square meter of dust coverage results in an energy loss of approximately 1.8% per day. This means that if solar panels are left uncleaned for long periods, energy losses can accumulate and significantly affect the overall effectiveness of the system. In a field study in Arizona, researchers tested solar panels before and after cleaning. The results showed that the cleaned solar panels produced approximately 12% more power output than the uncleaned panels. This example demonstrates the impact of dust on the effectiveness of solar panels and the importance of regular cleaning.
In addition to dust, solar panels located on top of houses can accumulate pollen, leaves, bird droppings, and other types of debris.Β Many believe that solar panels do not need to be cleaned and maintained in areas that receive regular rainfall, and that rain washes away the dirt and debris that blocks the sunlight. However, research reported by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates that even sustained downpours are not enough to remove pollen from solar panels. In the spring when pollen proliferates, rain to keep solar panels clean is completely inadequate. Learning to clean solar panels can help homeowners save on solar panel maintenance costs.
How Often To Clean Solar Panels?
Many homeowners may not be sure how often to clean their solar panels. In most cases, they are cleaned at least once to twice a year. Too much time between cleanings can lead to decreased energy efficiency. You can periodically look for stains or debris on your solar panels. If the solar panel is visibly dirty, the surface needs to be cleaned.
The following factors can help you determine the interval between cleanings:
Seasonal factors: in areas with dry, dusty summers, cleaning may be more necessary during or after this period. Similarly, if there is a high level of pollen or fallen leaves during a particular season, cleaning needs to be done accordingly.
Location: Rain will naturally rinse your solar panels, but it won't be enough to remove all dirt and debris. If you live in a dry climate, you may need to clean your solar panels more often than if you live in an area with regular rainfall.
Environmental Factors: If you have trees, flowers, and plants near your yard, then pollen, leaves, and branches may fall on the solar panels. Next factors such as nearby building construction, agricultural activities, or proximity to busy roads can lead to increased dirt accumulation and may require more frequent cleaning.
Tilt Angle: Solar panels mounted at a steep angle (e.g., on a roof) tend to have some degree of self-cleaning, as rainwater can effectively wash away dirt. Panels installed at flatter angles may require more frequent cleaning.
Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for the cleaning frequency of a particular solar panel model. They may provide specific instructions or recommendations for cleaning intervals based on the performance characteristics of their products.
Regular visual inspections are critical for recognizing visible dirt buildup, shadows, or damage on your panels. If you notice a significant drop in energy production or heavy fouling of the panels, it is recommended that you clean them regardless of the cleaning interval.
Preparing for Solar Panel Cleaning
Prioritize your safety before you begin cleaning. Consider using a sturdy ladder, a safety harness, and a smooth foothold when climbing onto the roof. If you are not equipped to do this on your own, you should ask for assistance or leave this task to a professional cleaner.
Tips:
- Plan your cleaning on a calm and overcast day if possible. Avoid cleaning during periods of intense sunlight or high temperatures as the panels can become hot and increase the risk of injury. Also, avoid cleaning during rainy or wet conditions for safety reasons.
- The solar panel must be turned off before cleaning and the bottom must not be touched.
- Wearing gloves and using a telescoping tool to clean solar panels from the ground is safest. However,Β second or third-floor homes may require climbing onto the roof.
Cleaning Checklist:
Choosing the right tools makes the cleaning process more efficient, here are some common solar panel cleaning tools recommended:
- Soft-Bristle Brush or Sponge: Choose a brush with bristles that won't scratch or damage the panels.Β
- Squeegee: Look for a squeegee with a soft rubber blade to avoid scratching the panels.Β
- Bucket: Fill a bucket with clean water for rinsing the panels.
- Extension Pole: Opt for an adjustable extension pole that allows you to reach different heights comfortably. Some extension poles come with attachments specifically designed for solar panel cleaning.
- Hose with Nozzle Attachment (Optional): Attach a gentle spray nozzle to the hose to provide a controlled flow of waterΒ
- Cleaning Solution or Detergent: Ensure the cleaning solution is compatible with the panel's materials and won't leave any residue. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and usage.
- Telescopic ladders, safety harnesses, helmets: if you need to climb onto a roof
Steps to Clean Solar Panel
step 1:Β Shut down the solar panel system
If you clean your solar panels yourself at home, the first step is to turn them off to avoid the risk of electrocution. Solar panel manufacturers often provide specifications and guidelines on how to ensure that the current generated by the panels is turned off and prevented from entering the home's electrical current.
step 2:Β Remove debris with a soft brush
Rain does not completely remove dust, pollen, leaves, and bird droppings from solar panels. Use a soft brush or blower to remove loose debris, leaves, or dust from the panels before using a cleaning solution or water. This step ensures that larger particles do not scratch the panel during cleaning.
A soft brush can be attached to an extension pole with a threaded head or hook so that it can be operated while standing on the ground. If you need to climb onto the roof, you will need to use a telescopic ladder and it is a good idea to bring a helmet and safety harness.
Make sure that there are no hard substances on the soft brush that could scratch the solar panel. When there is dust and dirt on the solar panel, it is counterproductive to spray water first. The water mixed with the dirt will turn into mud and dry out on the solar panel.
stepΒ 3: Rinse the solar panel off with a hose
Water is the best solar panel cleaner. After removing debris with a brush, you can rinse any remaining dirt with water. Note that high-pressure cleaning may create tiny cracks in the surface of the solar panel. This can damage the efficiency of the solar system and lead to future problems. The nozzle on the hose allows for a controllable water flow intensity to avoid causing damage to the solar panels.
stepΒ 4:Β Scrub with a soft brush and water
After spraying off most of the stain, the problem area can be cleaned additionally with a sponge, rubber broom, or a soft cloth soaked in a bucket of water. It's best to clean gently and intensively with repeated motions (patience is required), as scrubbing hard may scratch the panel.
stepΒ 5: Wipe heavily contaminated areas with a cleaning solution
For stubborn stains that cannot be removed with water, a cleaning solution or detergent can be used, diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Mix water in a bucket to make a cleaning solution Spray on the solar panel to enhance the cleaning effect. Scrub well before cleaning with water.
It is best to avoid soap. Soap rinses leave a residue that adheres to it, causing streaks to appear on the solar panel. This can impair some of the functions of the solar panel.
stepΒ 6: Wipe heavily contaminated areas with a cleaning solution
To avoid leaving hard water marks and streaks, each panel needs to be thoroughly dry. If using a rubber squeegee, it is best to start at the top of the panel and scrape down until the entire panel is dry. Excess water droplets can be wiped off with a cloth.
stepΒ 7: Restart the solar system
Safely reboot the system according to the manufacturer's instructions
What should you not do when cleaning solar panels?
When you clean, make sure you don't do the following:
- Do not use abrasive materials such as rough brushes, harsh scrubbers, or abrasive cleaners. Scratches or damage to the solar panel can reduce its ability to absorb sunlight and generate electricity.
- Do not use strong chemicals, solvents, or cleaners that are not recommended by the manufacturer. These chemicals can corrode the protective coating on the panels, leading to long-term damage and reduced performance.
- Do not use high-pressure water; high pressure can damage panels, seals, or electrical connections.
- Do not step on solar panels or place heavy objects on them. Solar panels are fragile and can crack or break under excessive weight or pressure.
- Do not clean the solar panel when it is hot or in direct sunlight. Rapid temperature changes caused by pouring cold water on a hot solar panel may damage the panel. It is best to clean the panels early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
Remember to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and specific instructions for cleaning your solar panels. If you are unsure or have concerns about any aspect of cleaning, it is recommended that you consult a professional or seek guidance from the manufacturer.
