Let us help you clean your own panels by following our guide with just a few steps. You will most likely be able to find most if not all of these items at home! We will give you our tips from our experience cleaning dirty solar panels.
Harnessing the sun’s energy with solar panels is a brilliant move, but how do we ensure they shine at their brightest? Dive in as we demystify how to clean solar panels effectively, ensuring they remain as luminous and efficient as when they first kissed the sunlight.
Why Should You Clean Solar Panels?
Regular cleaning of solar panels is paramount to maintain their optimal energy output and prolong their lifespan. Accumulated grime, including dust, pollen, and bird droppings, can obstruct sunlight, leading to efficiency losses of up to 25%.
Additionally, neglect can result in “hot spots” which degrade the photovoltaic cells and risk damage. As professional cleaners, we emphasize that a clean panel not only performs better but also offers a more extended, trouble-free service life.
What Causes Dirty Solar Panels?
Dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, lichen and other debris can accumulate on your solar panels over time, creating a barrier between the sun’s rays and the photovoltaic cells. This buildup can significantly reduce your solar panels’ efficiency, causing a decrease in power production. By keeping your solar panels clean, you can maximise their energy output and prolong their lifespan.
Why Cleaning Solar Panels is Essential
Dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, lichen and other debris can accumulate on your solar panels over time, creating a barrier between the sun’s rays and the photovoltaic cells. This buildup can significantly reduce your solar panels’ efficiency, causing a decrease in power production. By keeping your solar panels clean, you can maximise their energy output and prolong their lifespan.
When to Clean Your Solar Panels
Regular Schedule: Aim to clean your solar panels every 3 to 6 months. Adjust the frequency based on your location and the amount of dust and debris in your area.
Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, is essential to ensure your solar panels operate at their peak efficiency and continue to provide clean energy for years to come.
By following these simple steps, you can maintain your investment and contribute to a more sustainable energy future in Australia.
What to Prepare Before Cleaning Solar Panels
Gather Necessary Cleaning Equipments
Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:
- Soft bristle brush or sponge
- Squeegee or rubber blade
- Hose or water source
- Mild detergent (non-abrasive and biodegradable)
- Ladder (if necessary, for safe access)
- Safety gloves and goggles (optional)
Safety Precautions When Cleaning Solar Panels
- When working on the roof, please ensure that all safety equipment such as a helmet, harness and safety boots to be worn whilst cleaning your solar panels.
- Avoid working on your roof when it is a windy day in case of potential hazards.
- We would recommend having someone assist you when cleaning on your roof, someone to hold your ladder and to aid you in case of safety issues.
- Stay Safe: If you’re uncomfortable or unsure about cleaning your solar panels, consider hiring a professional maintenance service.
A Step by Step Guide to Clean Solar Panels on Roof
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Start with Dry Cleaning
- Safety First: If your solar panels are difficult to reach or require you to climb onto the roof, ensure you take all necessary safety precautions. Use a stable ladder, wear appropriate footwear, and consider having someone else present for added safety.
- Choose the Right Time: Plan to clean your solar panels on a cloudy day or in the early morning or late afternoon when the panels are cool to the touch. Cleaning hot panels with cold water can potentially damage them.
- Switch Off: Before you start cleaning, turn off your solar system to ensure your safety and prevent any electrical hazards.
Wet Cleaning Process
- Rinse Off Debris: Use a gentle spray of water from your hose to rinse off loose debris like leaves, dust, and dirt. Avoid using high-pressure jets, as they could damage the panels.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Make sure the detergent is non-abrasive and biodegradable to avoid damaging the panels or harming the environment.
- Scrub Gently: Dip the soft bristle brush or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the solar panels. Avoid using abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch or wear down the panel’s protective coating.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, use your hose to rinse the panels with clean water. Make sure to remove all soap residue.
- Squeegee for Shine: To achieve a streak-free finish, use a squeegee or rubber blade to remove excess water from the panels. Start from the top and work your way down in a smooth motion.
- Inspect for Residue: Once dry, inspect the panels for any remaining dirt or streaks. If needed, repeat the cleaning process.
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Solar Panels
- Avoid High Pressure: Never use pressure washers or abrasive tools, as they can damage the panels’ surface and protective coatings.
- Refrain from putting weight on the solar panels as this can cause the cells to crack and damage them.
- When using chemicals and cleaning solutions, steer clear of chemicals that are harsh and stripping or chemicals that have unknown ingredients. This can cause damage to your panels if the chemicals are harsh and abrasive.
Looking for a professional to do it in Melbourne?
If you’re looking for expert assistance in cleaning and maintaining your solar panels, you can also consider reaching out to professionals like us at iKlen. With our experience and specialised tools, we ensure thorough and safe cleaning, allowing you to enjoy maximum energy production from your solar panels without the hassle. Feel free to contact us to schedule a cleaning service and keep your solar panels shining bright.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to clean solar panels with?
The best thing to clean solar panels with is a soft brush or broom, combined with a mild dishwashing soap solution and clean water for rinsing.
Are you supposed to clean solar panels on roof?
Yes, you should clean solar panels on the roof to maintain their efficiency and prolong their lifespan. Accumulated dirt and debris can obstruct sunlight, reducing the panels’ energy output. For safety reasons, we suggest you call a professional cleaner.