Your solar panels could potentially be the most expensive part of your home. They're also evident to anyone passing by. When you look out of one or more of your windows, you may even be able to see the solar panels yourself. Many people understandably think of
solar systems as being a sound green energy initiative, and as a result, they represent your commitment to the world around us. Not only does cleaning your solar panels help protect your system, but it helps increase their efficiency.
1. Improve their efficiency with a thorough cleaning
It's estimated that cleaning solar panels can improve your system's output by up to 20%, so why isn't everyone doing it? Aside from the obvious - like how much it costs to hire solar panel cleaning specialists to wash your panels - there's another reason. Most people don't know about it. Even though it's common sense, many homeowners aren't aware of the importance of keeping their panels clean. So, if you're keen to make yours cleaner and more productive, you can take steps to do the job yourself.
2. Clean the roof with a water sprayer
Water sprays work well because they move water around the surface area of your panels. This keeps the dirt off the panel itself, allowing water to run down the sides of your panels and away from the inverter. Plus, since they're spraying the water onto the roof, they're less likely to damage the shingles. Obviously, the roof can be difficult to access, so you will need specialist equipment, such as a water-fed pole, to perform regular cleaning in this manner.
3. Use an air duster to effectively remove any loose particles
An air duster works well because it blows the dust off your PV panels. You can use this technique to give your panels a quick dusting. Then, once you finish, make sure to blow the dust off your house too. This can sometimes be a time-consuming task, but the result will make the effort worthwhile.
4. Even just one dirty panel can affect your supply
If your panels are on a string array and just one of them is covered with dirt, it will reduce the output of your entire panel array. This is because each panel's electricity generated depends on the total number of panels installed. Therefore, if you see one dirty panel, don't be tempted to think that it doesn't require your attention.
5. Use more effort on certain substances
Bird poo, dust and pollution can cover your PV panels over a period of time. When this happens, all available daylight cannot reach the cells, which ultimately reduces their efficiency. The effect of dirty panels on a single cell is similar to shading. Therefore, be aware that some substances are more difficult to remove than others. Bird droppings, in particular, can be rather stubborn and may need chemicals and a great deal of elbow grease to remove altogether.
6. Use manual cleaning methods where you are able to
If you can safely gain direct access to the panels, you can clean them by hand. The easiest way to clean your solar power panels is to wash them off with plain water and dishwashing liquid using a non-abrasive sponge. This method works well enough for cleaning the panels themselves, but it won't necessarily make them look perfect. There are plenty of options if you want to give your panels a professional polish. You could even take it one step further and use a specialised product designed specifically for solar panels.
7. Call in the experts if you need to
The cleaning of solar panels will sometimes be one of those tasks best performed by a qualified professional, especially if they are roof mounted. This is because it is challenging to gain safe access without damaging your panels. If you were to damage your solar panels, your warranty could be voided. You would also be putting yourself at risk of electrocution. A professional solar panel cleaner will be able to clean your panels safely. They will have more knowledge of the technology and training in working at heights via specialist access equipment.
The solar panels on your home enable you to keep your energy bills down and reduce your carbon footprint, but like any other aspect of the home, they sometimes need attention. Solar panels become less effective when dirty, so cleaning them is necessary. You may be able to do the job yourself, but if you can't, a solar panel cleaning service will be available in your area.