Just imagine when you have invested in the solar panel systems and realized that the devices are not as efficient as you expected. What if the problem is as basic as dust and stain? Years of neglect, pollution, or bird droppings will prevent clean sunlight from reaching your solar panels required for power production. Note, for example, the bad news that dirty panels provide only 75% of the expected amount of energy.
It seems it has gone wrong somewhere—there is a solution though. This post will explain the right method of Solar Panel Cleaning and some best ways to clean solar panels on the roof. Everything from do it yourself ways to how to hire experts to make sure your solar panels perform optimally will be covered. Wanna know how you can keep your solar panel clean? Let’s dive in!
Why Solar Panel Cleaning is Important
Solar panels produce energy through the photovoltaic (PV) cells which converts sunlight in electricity. Impurities like dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, or debris cause a reduction of the amount of sunlight that gets on the panels. Under certain conditions, energy generated can reduce as much as 25%, which in turn reflects on the energy savings and the time it takes to recover your cost of installing solar.
This can build-up more often since Perth for instance, is known to experience high levels of both dust and pollen. So whether you own a 3.5 kW residential solar power system or a 13.2 kW commercial solar installation, having the panels cleaned will result in the highest output. Easy Solar have professional cleaners of solar panels for homes and businesses to ensure that your solar system is optimally performing, receives proper care and is long-lasting.
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?
The frequency of solar panels cleaning depends on several factors:
Location:
If the user resides in a dusty environment or near a busy roadway, there is a possibility that panels will early fatten up on dirt deposits.
Weather conditions:
In Perth, dry seasons are those characterized by an increased rate of dust and bird droppings accumulation. Even though rain can wash panels it does not eliminate all forms of dirt.
Angle of installation:
So the panels installed at a higher tilt will remain cleaner than the ones installed at low tilt as they get dirt in a shorter time.
The specialists suggest cleaning the solar panels every 6-12 months, but in some cases, you may need to do this more often, taking into account the conditions. Easy Solar believes that professional cleaning can be scheduled for at least once per year to help improve the cleaning process.
Can I Clean My Solar Panels Myself?
As much as it is possible to clean the solar panels on your own, you have to follow the right process to avoid causing more harm to the panels, or missing out on warranty terms. It isn’t like washing walls or windows; they are delicate structures comprising sensitive components that can be easily damaged by cleaning.
Here’s how you can safely clean your panels:
Instructions for Cleaning Solar Panels on Your Own are given below.
Turn Off the System:
Always make sure that the solar power system is switched off for safety purposes when cleaning starts. Your solar inverter should have a button or switch with this as its label on it or something close to that.
Check the Weather:
Clean the surface in cool, cloudy or early morning to minimize how quickly the water evaporates which may result in streaking.
Rinse the Panels with Water:
Rinse off any dirt and debris lightly using the garden hose before proceeding with the cleaning process. Ensure the water is warm, not hot since hot water leads to cracking of the glass panels. Do not use high pressurized water washers because they may harm the cell or displace panel mounts.
Use a Soft Brush or Sponge:
For difficult to remove deposits use a small nylon brush or soft non scratch sponge and a weak detergent solution (water with a small amount of washing up liquid). Wash gently in circles, and never use scratchy products or cleaning agents.
Rinse and Dry:
In case those panels contain some soap, it is advisable to wash them with clean water after scrubbing. Allowing them to dry up naturally is recommended or sucking them using a squeegee whose edge is not sharp and can cause some scratches.
Self cleaning may expose you to certain dangers such as climbing on the roof to clean the panels or using wrong tools to clean the panels. We at Easy Solar provide cleanings that guarantee that your solar panels remain effective without possibilities of a fix being rendered unnecessary by mishaps.
Professional Solar Panel Cleaning: Why It’s Worth It
Hiring professionals to clean solar panels can be a smart decision for several reasons:
Safety:
To clean the solar panels, sometimes one has to go on the roof to do the cleaning which is very risky without the correct gear. Easy Solar staff has protective wears and gears as well as appropriate tools to use when doing the work.
Efficiency:
While cleaning it, professional cleaners have ensured the best way to clean solar panels will see even the hardest dirt in the panels removed and the PV cells not be damaged. With the help of our special equipment, our team makes sure that your panels will be clean and will work as expected.
Warranty Protection:
There is always a possibility to lose Solar panel warranties if panels are damaged by cleaning them inaccurately. Easy Solar operates based on manufacturer specifications, and thus maintains your warranty as well as the condition of your panels.
Long-Term Cost Savings:
Professional cleaning on a regular basis slows the deterioration of your solar panels, meaning that you end up using more money in the long run. By using our services you will be able to optimize energy generated by your system, thus decrease your expenses of electricity and gain the maximum result with your investment.
Best Practices for Solar Panel Cleaning
When it comes to solar panel cleaning, there are best way to clean solar panels to keep in mind to avoid costly mistakes:
Avoid Cleaning During Peak Sunlight Hours:
The water evaporates when cleaning panels when they are exposed to direct sunlight and this leaves some streaks or residues which causes inefficiency in the panel. It is most appropriate to clean in the early morning or late afternoon.
Use Filtered or Deionized Water:
Mineral particles in hard water can even settle on the panels hence reducing the efficiency of the system. Further, the water should be filtered or deionised to provide a spot free rinse.
Check for Damage While Cleaning:
It is also a good chance to take a closer look at your system for damages like cracks, chips and problems with wiring connections. In the unlikely event that you notice any of the above problems, it is advisable to contact Easy Solar to have the electrical devices checked professionally and fixed.
Avoid Abrasive Tools and Chemicals:
Photovoltaic solar panels have a skin layer and they may be sensitive to abrasive substances and caustic chemicals. It should be cleaned with soft brush and soft cleaning solutions only so that the surface is not scratched.
How Weather Affects Solar Panel Cleaning in Perth
Perth generally enjoys warm-arid climate and is subject to heavy dust storms as well as occasional torrents which may affect the cleanliness of the solar panels. Dashboard assumptions, especially during the summer, may be covered by a layer of dust in a relatively short period. Other problems associated with solar panel cleaning in suburban areas include bird droppings and tree sap.
The occasional amount of rainfall can wash away some of the dirt, but it isn’t sufficient to wash off other particles that are sticky or corned. Easy Solar advises booking cleaning before Perth’s dry season seasons end to guarantee that your system provides maximum efficiency when heat is at its peak.
How to Clean Solar Panels on Roof Safely
When the solar panels are mounted on any roof of the building, one needs to be very cautious when cleaning them. Here are a few tips for how to clean solar panels on roof installations:
Use Proper Safety Gear:
While cleaning the panels on your roof, be sure to use adequate safety measures for example harnesses in case you slip off.
Access with a Ladder:
It is important to use a strong ladder when you want to get on your roof. Always make sure that your ladder is on level and stabilized ground before you attempt to climb up onto your roof.
Avoid Stepping on Panels:
Solar panels are very sensitive; if you step on them you can easily crack them or even harm the cells. To ensure the safety of the panels do not lean on them or lay any weight on the panels for any reason at all.
For solar panels cleaning, it’s advisable to contract expertise from a professional team such as Easy Solar without exposing yourself or damaging the panels.
Conclusion:
Solar panels cleaning is important to make sure they are generating power and lasting as long as they can. Cleansing can increase energy production, reduce the electric cost and increase the life span of the panels. Easy Solar offers residents and businesses in Perth high quality, clean and secure solar panel cleaning services that will ensure your system operates effectively.
Speaking of Easy Solar, we present to you the various types of solar panel systems – from 3.5 kW – residential to 13.2 kW – commercial. Whether you want a clean or or to have a solar panel installed, we are standing by to help that team in Perth. For a cleaning or to hear more about our solar energy options please contact us today.
