Are you considering making a switch to green, solar energy? It's a smart choice — both clean and sustainable
power. But did you know that cleaning your solar panels is crucial for optimal functioning? That's what we'll be
addressing in this article, the solar panel cleaning solution. We'll provide you with the best cleaning solutions
for your panels, explain why keeping them clean is so important, and show you simple DIY methods to maintain their
efficiency. Plus, we'll give you insights on when it's time to call in the professionals and how much that might
cost. Let's get started!
Why Do Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
To maintain their performance and reliability, solar panels require regular cleaning. While they are typically
installed with a tilt to self-clean via rainwater, periods of drought in some places can lead to the accumulation
of dust, bird droppings, and other pollutants. Nearby deciduous trees not only shed leaves but also attract birds,
further contributing to the build-up of debris that can obstruct sunlight and significantly reduce the efficiency
of your solar panels. It's essential to regularly clean solar panels to ensure they generate power at their
maximum potential, as any obstruction can significantly impact their electricity production capabilities.
When Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?
Take the harsh climate of Africa as an example. It is recommended to clean the solar panels at least once every
six months. However, this can vary based on several environmental factors. If you're experiencing extreme
conditions such as fires, dust storms, or excessive rainstorms for prolonged periods, more frequent cleaning may
be necessary. Homes near highways, construction sites, or coastal areas that are prone to marine layer residue
also require more thorough solar panel maintenance due to the higher likelihood of debris accumulation.
Best Cleaning Solution for Solar Panels
Maintaining the efficiency of your solar panels entails proper cleaning. Here are four of the best cleaning
solutions for solar panels:
1. Rinse with a Low-Pressure Washer: The first stop on the best solar panel cleaning solution is
a quick rinse with a low-pressure washer. It can effectively take care of the layer of dust and dirt on your PV
solar panels. It's important to retain low pressure so that the panels are not scratched or damaged.
2. Wash with Soapy Water: For a more thorough wash, a combination of water and mild soap does the
trick. This not only cleanses your panels but also avoids potential chemical damage. Remember to use a gentle
scrubber, rinse off gently, then remove excess water with a squeegee.
3. Professional Service: Another best solution for cleaning solar panels is seeking professional
help. If you're unsure of how to clean your solar panels or intimidated by the process, engaging a reputable
company that provides professional cleaning services can save you from potentially damaging the system.
4. Consider Hydrophobic Coating: Regular solar panel maintenance can be daunting. A hydrophobic
coating can be the best solution to clean solar panels as it offers the convenience of staying cleaner for a
longer period of time. This ultra-thin, invisible barrier not only enhances the appearance of your solar panels
but also increases their energy output and overall performance by preventing sunlight obstruction caused by
debris.
How to Clean Solar Panels Yourself
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean solar panels:
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Before anything else, consider safety first. Ensure you're equipped with a safety harness and/or a hard hat if you
must get on the roof. Always remember to work within your limits and only proceed if it's safe.
Step 2: Choose the Right Time
Aim for a cool day for cleaning, as solar panels and roofs can get extremely hot, making the task more challenging
and potentially dangerous.
Step 3: Gather Materials
You'll need water, a soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth, and possibly a mild, environmentally friendly soap
similar to what you'd use for dishes. Avoid strong chemicals or corrosive detergents.
Step 4: Cleaning Process
• Wet the solar panels with water to loosen the dirt and debris.
• Gently scrub the panels with a sponge or cloth to remove the debris. If necessary, apply a small amount of soap
to aid the cleaning process.
• Rinse the panels thoroughly with tap water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry the panels using a squeegee or chamois to prevent residue streaks.
Step 5: Inspection
The last step in how to clean solar panels is inspection. After cleaning, inspect your panels for any damage,
cracks, or nests from birds and rodents. Regular inspections help ensure your panels remain in optimal condition
for sunlight absorption, which is essential for maintaining energy efficiency and keeping electricity bills low.
Additional Tips:
• Avoid Harsh Cleaning Agents and Tools: Steer clear from strong detergents and abrasive cloths
or sponges that can scratch the panel's surface.
• Never Stand on Panels: This can cause cracking and is a safety hazard.
• Consider CCTV for Easy Monitoring: Installing a CCTV camera to monitor the condition of your
solar panels can save you from frequent roof trips and help you decide when cleaning might be needed.
When Should You Call in a Professional?
While regular dust can be washed away by rain, making professional cleaning unnecessary for minor buildups, there
are circumstances where hiring professionals is advisable:
• Living in heavily polluted or coastal areas: The accumulation of pollutants or marine layer
residue might require specialized cleaning equipment or techniques.
• Deciduous trees near your panels: If foliage and bird dropping accumulation is significant,
professional services can ensure thorough cleaning without damage to your panels.
• Tough build-ups: Situations like hardened bird droppings or severe grime may require
professional attention to avoid damaging the panels.
• Safety concerns: For individuals who are elderly or not confident in safely accessing their
roof, professional cleaners can ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Professional for Cleaning?
The cost of hiring a professional cleaner, particularly for cleaning solar panels, largely depends on a few
factors such as the size of the solar PV system, the location of the panels, and whether your roof has any unique
features that could complicate the job. In general, you can expect professional solar panel cleaning services to
charge between R2,000 and R4,000 each time. Hiring a specialist for this task is a worthwhile investment to ensure
your panels maintain peak performance and longevity, ultimately saving you large sums of money in the long run by
optimizing efficiency.
Conclusion
Keeping solar panels clean is vital to ensure they perform at their optimum level. Integrating a smart management
system like FusionSolar can further enhance this process. FusionSolar offers advanced monitoring and management
tools that enable users to track the performance of their PV solar systems in real-time, ensuring that any
decrease in efficiency due to dirt or debris can be quickly addressed. With the right solar panel cleaning
solution, homeowners and business operators can maximize the energy output of their installations. By following
the tips outlined in this article and utilizing FusionSolar's technology, maintaining solar panel efficiency
becomes more manageable, allowing users to reap the full benefits of renewable energy.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about a solar panel cleaning solution.
Does Rain Clean Solar Panels?
Yes, rain can definitely help to clean solar panels by washing away dust, bird droppings, and other types of dirt.
However, rainwater may not effectively remove all the debris, particularly sticky substances or residues that may
require a more thorough cleaning process.
Can You Walk on Solar Panels to Clean Them?
No, it is highly discouraged to walk on solar panels to clean them. Solar panels are fragile and the weight of a
person walking on them could cause significant damage. It is best to clean them from the ground using extendable
tools or hire professional cleaners.
What Liquid Is Used to Clean Solar Panels?
The most common and safe cleaning liquid for solar panels is a mixture of warm water and mild soap. This mild
detergent solution effectively removes dirt without risking any damage to the solar panel's surface. Always avoid
any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they could potentially scratch or cause other damage to the panels.
