How Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned

If the sun is beating down on the panels any water used can quickly evaporate and dirt will become smeared.

How should solar panels be cleaned.

When someone gets a new rooftop solar installation the second question they always ask is how often do i need to clean my solar panels we ll answer that question on today s show taking into account the different effects of rain dust and electric rates btw the first question people always ask is how do i read my electric bill but that s a topic for another show. Because you don t want to scratch the panels in any way it s best to use just water and a non abrasive sponge to apply soapy water. Use a soft cloth or sponge and wipe them down with the soap solution and then rinse them with the hose. If there is a need just use one drop of low concentrated cleaner such as dawn with the animal on it.

The actual cleaning process for solar panels for easy and the biggest challenge most people encounter is related to getting to the panels. Fill a bucket or spray bottle with warm water and soap no other special equipment is needed. You do not have to clean the wiring underneath. The best way to clean solar panels is through professional help as of may 31 2020 australia now has more than 2 43 million solar power systems installed across rooftops.

Fill a bucket with warm soapy water or cleaning solution designed for solar panels. Angled ones take advantage of rain running across them to keep them clean. Fill a spray bottle or bucket with warm water and begin to clean solar panel glass with a soft spongeor auto squeegee. When cleaning your solar panels the most important consideration to keep in mind is that scratching or damaging the glass in any way will reduce a panel s energy production.

Clean the surface of the solar panel with a soft cloth or sponge. Show extra caution if cleaning your solar panels requires you to climb up on the roof. There is no need to use soap or other chemicals. According to energy matters you need a good quality soft brush and a squeegee with a plastic blade on one side and a cloth covered sponge on the other with a long extension arm.

Abrasives and chemicals should also be avoided as both can result in rough spots on the panels where dirt is likely to accumulate. Clean your solar panelson an overcast day early in the morning or in the evening. Flat panels will need more upkeep as water can pool up and leave a muddy residue when it evaporates. If you can safely reach your solar panels from the ground then you can give them a clean yourself.

Whereever and whenever possible panels should be cleaned using purified water and a soft brush. It s best to approach panel cleaning the same way you might clean your car. Panels should not be cleaned with a pressure washer as doing so could result in cracked glass. Essentially in the same manner you would wash your car at home.