Step-by-Step: How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Effectively
Homeowners and businesses should buy solar panels because these devices deliver both electricity saving and renewable power benefits. Regular cleaning helps these devices deliver their full power output value. Dirty earth, rubbish, and bird mess on the panels prevents sunlight reaches and decreases their electricity production rate.
We will present necessary steps for cleaning solar panels safely and show you how to maintain long-term energy production.
Why Cleaning Solar Panels is Important?
Start by understanding why solar panel cleanliness is critical before starting the cleaning process.
The performance of each solar panel decreases when dirt and grime stop sunlight from reaching them. Clean solar panels in a regular schedule to optimize their energy performance.
Touchless Panel Cleaning Protects Against Contaminants That Shorten Its Life.
Bird droppings tree sap and industrial pollutants may damage panels permanently when left alone.
Unblocking solar panels per warranty demands is important for product service requirements.
When Should You Clean Your Solar Panels?
You must clean your solar panels based on specific criteria that include your neighborhood setting and weather plus neighborhood activities.
Urban or Industrial Areas – Clean every 3-6 months due to air pollution and dust accumulation.
Areas with farmlands or rural locations need panel cleaning every six months because dirt and pollen buildup quickly.
Areas near the ocean require solar panel cleaning every three to four months to eliminate damaging salt buildup.
People living in desert areas should clean their solar panels twice to three times in one year because of heavy dust accumulation.
Heavily Forested Areas – Clean every 3-6 months due to leaves, pollen, and bird droppings.
If you recognize a decrease in energy production from your system you should schedule its cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Solar Panels Safely and Effectively
Choose the Right Time to Clean
Start your cleaning process during early morning, late afternoon or when there is cloud coverage to stop water from quickly drying up and producing streaks.
Keep off the panels at midday to prevent thermal stress that can damage their surface.
Gather the Necessary Cleaning Tools
You require simple materials such as a gentle brush or sponge and mild cleaner instead of spending money on special tools.
Select a soft brush or sponge since rough materials can scratch glass surfaces.
Use gentle cleaners labeled as solar panel or mild detergent to shield the anti-reflective surface.
A hose nozzled with a gentle spray works best to wash dirt away from the surface.
✔ Bucket of warm soapy water – Mix a mild soap with water for better cleaning.
The smooth cloth or squeegee prevents too much water from remaining on the glass surface.
Install your safety gear first when you clean roof panels since a harness with non-slip shoes and a secure ladder keeps you safe.
To safely start the cleaning process you must disable your solar installation system.
After turning off the power according to manufacturer instructions clean your solar panels. Electrical risks need to be avoided during this process.
Turn Off Your Solar System
Switch off the power source if necessary
After washing fill your water hose to remove cleaning residue.
The soft water stream from a hose helps remove surface particles. The strong water pressure from washers can harm wiring and loose panel elements.
Rinse the Panels with Water
Immerse your soft brush or sponge into the soapy bucket to delicately clean the panel surface.
Use soft strokes on dirty panel areas that birds visited applying minimum force to preserve their surface.
Consider solar panel-friendly products created to clean coatings while removing debris.
Follow Step 6 by thoroughly rinsing the surface and eliminating all excess water.
Pour fresh water from the bucket to wash off soap residue.
Use soft cloth or squeegee tool to remove all water before the cloth picks up more water.
Inspect the Panels
After cleaning, check for any:
Contact a professional installer if you find damages on the panels.
Check for wires that do not hang freely or are exposed to the elements.
Trim all nearby tree branches that block sunlight from hitting the panels.
Turn the Solar System Back On
When your panels are dry, check everything thoroughly according to the manufacturer directions then activate your solar system again. Check if all system parts operate properly after reactivation.
Safety Tips for Cleaning Solar Panels
Stay Away from Powerful Chemicals Including Bleach Ammonia or Detergents Since They Scratch Solar Panel Surface.
Do Not Use Metal Tools Because They Can Create Scratches on Glass Surface.
Stay safe when accessing panels that are installed on a roof structure. Hiring a professional solar panel cleaner becomes suitable when you feel uncertain about the cleaning process.
Examine weather conditions before cleaning because storms and gusty wind make work unsafe.
