Comprehensive Guide On Cleaning Solar Panels

 

Like any other possession, be it a car, furniture, or bike, the solar panel is no exception for cleaning and maintenance. But here the question is, how should I clean my solar panels? Should I use detergent or just plain water? Well, get the answer to these questions and many more related to solar panel cleaning in this piece of writing. 

Why Should You Clean Solar Panels?

If you think that why should you clean, what will rain do then? Yes, partially; you might be right; rain helps to clean solar panels to a great extent, but what about deep cleaning? Is rain the perfect solution for deep cleaning? Well, you will get answers to your question but before that, read about the benefits of cleaning solar panels.

Advantages of Cleaning Solar Panels:

• Prevent Dust and Dirt Build

One of the primary advantages of cleaning solar panels is to prevent dust and dirt build on solar panels. The accumulated dust brings down the overall performance of the whole system and increases the utility bills. This is the reason why solar panel cleaning is necessary.                         

• Boost Performance   

Research indicates that a clean and well-maintained solar panel performs 10% better than a not regularly cleaned panel. Therefore clean solar panels help to bring out the best efficiency from the solar systems. 

• Rain is Not Enough

It is generally assumed that rain is enough to clean the solar panel thoroughly, but this is not the case in most areas. Sometimes it's bird poop, stickiness from the nearby factories, tweaks, and god knows what not. It is impossible to get away from all debris and dust with a little rain shower. Regular and timely cleaning helps to rid all unwanted things on panels, which further helps boost the performance manifolds. 

• Goodbye to Bird Poop       

You cannot stop birds from pooping on solar panels as generally they are placed in a tilt position. If bird pooping sticks for a long time, then it can not be washed away with rain. All you need is a soft bristle brush to remove it; sometimes, it smells awful. To save yourself from cleaning it, hire a professional for maintenance service in the UK. 

• Warranty

Even in the warranty policy provided by the manufacturers, cleaning is a vital part. If your solar panel is not able to perform well due to your lack of cleaning, then the solar panel may not come under warranty. This applies to scenarios where you cannot prove to the manufacturer that you have been maintaining the solar panel well.                             

How to Clean Solar Panels?

Here is the step-by-step guide on how to clean solar panels:

• Entire System Shut Down 

The first step is to shut down the entire system before starting to clean the solar panel. Do not shut down the system without reading the manual provided by the manufacturer. The DC system will be shut down completely, while the AC system should be shut down using the main solar supply chain. 

• Disconnect Rainwater Collections

When you connect rainwater tanks with your gutter system, you should temporarily shut off or disconnect from the gutter system in order to avoid running off dirty water into your tank. 

• Avoid Hot Days 

Early mornings with a mild temperature is a good day for cleaning solar panels. If you are cleaning panels on hot days, then the water you have thrown on the panel could evaporate and leave dirty marks. A sudden change in the temperature can damage solar panels. Cool evenings are ideal for cleaning solar panels if you can't do it in the early morning. In any case, if you are not very sure how to clean it properly, then there is no harm in hiring a solar panel maintenance service in the UK. 

• Use Soft Cloth and Mild Soap

One important thing to remember is to use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean the panel. Harsh soap can ruin the panel and affect the system's overall functioning.

• Don't climb on the Panel Without Preparation. 

Going without preparation cannot do any good. Water on panels increases the risk manifolds. Do not climb in the panel without proper safety equipment and training. In order to save a few bucks, do not put your life in danger, instead hire professional help. 

• Check Regularly 

Once you clean the panel properly, the next step is to inspect the overall system to see if it is working properly. Additionally, give a regular check to the overall system to check whether it is working properly. The routine inspection helps to detect any crack or fault in the system. 

How often Should I Clean Solar Panels?           

Generally, it is recommended to clean a solar panel once or twice a year. Still, it again entirely depends on the area you are living in. Suppose you are living in an area surrounded by factories or the level of pollution or dirt around you. In that case, you need more than two cleaning for solar panels.

Conclusion

We hope that after reading this complete guide on cleaning solar panels, you now understand why it is necessary and how to do it. To hire professional help, contact Solar Daddy as we have extensive years of experience in solar panel cleaning and maintenance. Our team will ensure to give a complete cleaning at your desired time. What are you waiting for? Call us now and avail the best services at affordable rates.

 

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