Cleaning Solar Panels: Why, When and How to Do It

Solar panels are an investment of sorts for every homeowner. Since installation doesn’t come cheap, you want to ensure that you get value for your money. One of the ways of achieving that is by regular cleaning. In this post, we look at cleaning solar panels; the why, when and how to.

Although solar panels in Australia are structurally designed to suit its weather conditions, it doesn’t mean you eliminate regular cleaning entirely. For solar panels to perform well, they need constant cleaning.

But what conditions affect solar panels?

Dirty Solar Panels: Causes

Although solar panels are designed with the right tilt and can self-clean when it rains, other weather elements can still cause dirty solar panels. Some of the causes of dirty solar panels include:

1. Water

Solar panels that are installed in flat positions pool up water more quickly than those that are in raised positions. When this water evaporates, it leaves muddy debris that eventually causes your solar panel to be dirty. Solar panels installed in a raised position have no muddy debris as water easily slides over them.

2. Dust

Solar panels generate more energy when they are clean and exposed directly to the sun without any obstacles. Dust, which accumulates over time, will cause dirty panels and hinder energy generation.

3. Bird Droppings

When bird droppings cover all or a part of the solar panels, it interferes with energy production. Solar panels absorb sunlight better when they are without dirt.

Solution: When to Clean Your Solar Panels

The Australian weather can be harsh sometimes. This increases the chances of solar panels getting dirty fast compared to other regions. It’s therefore advisable to clean your panels every 6 months.

5 Steps on How to Clean Your Solar Panels

For safety reasons, it’s advisable to hire a professional when cleaning the panels. But if you want to do it as a DIY project, these are the steps to follow:

1. Turn off the solar panel system

To avoid any casualties, make sure to switch off the solar panel systems. Just like electrical appliances, it’s important to switch off the solar system for your own safety.

Also, shutting down the system is the first cleaning requirement stated in user manuals and the inverter’s manufacturer's manuals.

2. Brush loose dirt before washing

Before you start using a hose and soapy water to get rid of accumulated debris, brush off loose dirt from the panel’s surface before washing. Brushing loose dirt will also make your work effortless.

3. Use a hose and soapy water

When it comes to soap, avoid soaps that contain corrosive chemicals and strong detergents. These will damage your panel’s surface. Using a hose washer is gentler on your panel and helps avoid scratches.

4. Rub panels with a soft brush or cloth

The glass-like surface of solar panels makes them fragile and requires them to be handled with care. A soft brush or cloth will not only get the job done but will also leave your panel unscratched.

5. Prevent water streaks with a squeegee

After washing your solar panels, there will be water stains. To do away with these stains, use a squeegee. It will remove all the excess water leaving your panel completely dry.

Having clean solar panels means having efficient solar panels. Contact a professional solar panel cleaner if you need your panels cleaned.