How To Clean Solar Panels Effectively

For many house and business owners, solar panels are an excellent investment. According to research, 66.5% of those who do not have house solar panels are interested in having them in the future. However, if you want them to work well, you should perform routine maintenance and clean solar panels effectively.

If you want to get the most out of your investment, learn how to clean solar panels properly. It is beneficial to both your money and the environment. Here’s our step-by-step guide to cleaning solar panels, including instructions for cleaning solar panels on a roof.

Importance of Cleaning Solar Panels

To clean solar panels on a regular basis is an important element of solar panel maintenance. Although it can be time-consuming, keeping your solar panels clean has numerous long-term benefits.

Cleaning solar panels on a regular basis prevents dirt and debris from accumulating and ensures they remain in excellent working condition. Furthermore, trash heaps may cause scratches that could permanently harm your panels.

Cleaning your panels on a regular basis also lowers the possibility of having to replace them. Overall, keeping your solar panels clean allows them to produce more energy, which saves you money by offsetting your energy cost.

When Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?

Knowing when and how frequently to clean solar panels is critical.

The timing varies depending on the system you own, its location, and the amount of maintenance required by service specialists. Other key things to consider when determining how frequently to clean solar panels are:

• Climate conditions
• Environmental factor
• As well as the season

Rain, for example, aids in the removal of dirt and debris. As a result, if you live in a dry climate, the lack of rain will necessitate extra hand washing of your panels.

Cleaning your solar panels, on the other hand, does not have to be done as frequently as you may imagine. Expect to clean your panels once or twice a year on average.

What Is The Cost Implications OF Cleaning Solar Panels?

If you want to get your solar panels professionally cleaned, you need to find out how much professional solar panel cleaning costs.

Some solar providers charge a set fee for cleaning services, whereas the majority charge per panel.

However, your final payout is determined by a number of circumstances. Some examples are:

• The number of solar panels that must be cleaned?
• Panel dimensions (commercial panels are larger than residential panels)
• The amount of dirt and debris accumulated
• The type of surface on which the solar panels are installed (ground, wall, or roof)
• Your roof’s type and slant

To get a better idea of how much expert cleaning may cost you, get a quote from your solar provider.

Materials Required To Clean Solar Panels

When learning how to clean solar panels, you should also consider what cleaning materials you will require. Using the proper equipment and products will allow you to wash them more completely and keep them cleaner for longer!

First, gather some water (a regular water hose or buckets of water are fine). After that, gather a soft cloth or sponge, a soft brush or leaf blower, and a squeegee.

It’s a good idea to utilize basic safety equipment when cleaning solar panels on a roof. A strong ladder, safety glasses, and a helmet are all recommended. If possible, utilize a safety harness.

But there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Hiring a solar specialist that specializes in cleaning is usually a good idea.

Going atop your roof might be dangerous, especially if it’s high and sloping because an accident could occur.

Furthermore, frigid locations with temperatures below freezing may cause the water you hose onto your panels to freeze. To lessen the probability of ice developing on your panels, use very warm water or wait until the temperature rises.

Of course, a fall safety system should always be used.

Safety Measures TO Consider When Planning To Clean Solar Panels

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has several fall protection regulations. These regulations apply to service personnel that installs or maintain solar panels, including cleaning them. They are, nevertheless, equally important for non-service professions to consider.

OSHA mandates a conventional guardrail if the fall danger is 4 feet or higher. Alternatively, if your solar panels are at least 6 feet above the ground, OSHA mandates the following fall safety methods:

• System of guardrails
• System of safety nets
• Personal fall protection systems

On their website, you can learn more about OSHA’s recommended safety precautions and enforced rules.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Clean Solar Panels Effectively

Learning how to clean a solar panel properly is critical if you want your system to perform optimally. Furthermore, regular cleaning prevents unwanted damage to your panels and preserves them in good shape for years.

The most crucial measures to take when cleaning your panels are outlined below.

1. Verify The Manufacturer’s Instructions

Begin by reviewing the manufacturer’s instructions. They detail the steps on how to clean your specific solar panel brand. Following those guidelines can also help you avoid causing unneeded harm to the panels.

2. Get Rid Of Loose Dirt And Debris

Also, before cleaning your solar panel system, make sure you turn it off. The manufacturer’s instructions should explain how to turn your system off.

After that, clean up any loose dirt and debris from the panels. Dirt and debris can quickly build and reduce the efficiency with which your panels generate energy. Before cleaning the panels, use a leaf blower to remove the majority of the accumulation.

Furthermore, whenever and if you get on top of your roof, make sure to protect yourself. Wearing appropriate work attire, non-slip footwear, and, most importantly, employing a fall protection system are all part of this.

This is a simple and necessary precautionary measure to avert major mishaps.

3. Spray Water

Next, spray the panels with water to eliminate any remaining dirt, dust, or debris.

However, high-pressure water sprayers or water jets should not be used for this stage. The intense water spray has the potential to harm the panels.

The power of a high-pressure water sprayer might potentially cause you to lose your balance. Make use of a low-pressure hose or buckets of water.

When learning how to clean roof solar panels, climbing on the roof may allow you to clean them more thoroughly. However, be cautious because water might make the roof slippery. When cleaning roof panels, wear protective equipment.

4. Squeegee

Use a squeegee to remove any surplus water after cleaning the panels with water. Because it avoids mineral buildup, this procedure is especially crucial if you have hard water.

Use a squeegee with an extension handle if you have one. This allows you to remove water from difficult-to-reach regions.

5. Avoid The Use Of Abrasive Products

Finally, avoid using abrasive materials. Harsh detergents or rough sponges can harm your panels and reduce their effectiveness. Some detergents can also destroy your panels.

To maintain solar panels effectively, clean them using just water, gentle sponges, and soft cloths.

Contact GVE To Effectively Clean Your Solar Panel Today

Are you in need of specialists who understand how to clean solar panels effectively? Contact Us Today!

Phone: +234 909 2227 483, +234 909 2229 483

Email: info@gve-group.com