Clean solar panels are essential to maintain their efficiency and ensure you get the maximum energy output from your solar system. Clean panels also increases their life, as over time dust, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on the panels, reducing their ability to generate electricity. This guide will give you various methods for cleaning your solar panels at home, covering everything from manual washing to using telescopic brushes and pressure washers.
Importance of Cleaning Solar Panels
There are three main reasons to keep your panels clean all time
Enhances Efficiency
Clean panels can produce up to 20% more electricity than dirty ones.
Extends Lifespan
Regular maintenance prevents long-term damage and wear.
Increases Savings
Improved efficiency means lower electricity bills.
Methods for Cleaning Solar Panels
Commonly three methods are used to clean solar panels by DIY.
- Manual Washing
- Using Telescopic brushes
- Pressure Washers
- Auto Sprayers
Manual Washing
If your panels are easily accessible where you can reach every corner and center of plates easily, than manual washing is easiest and cheapest way for you. Manual washing is a simple and effective way to clean your solar panels.
Follow these simple steps to wash your panels at home.
1. Turn Off the System: Safety first always and forever. Ensure your solar system is turned off to avoid electrical hazards. You may get electrical light shocks if try to clean when its switched on.
2. Use Soft Water: Hard water can leave mineral deposits. If possible, use distilled or deionized water. These deposits becomes very hard over time and forms a tough layer over plates.
3. Mild Soap Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap with water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the panels. Remember simple is the best.
4. Soft Cloth or Sponge: Gently wipe the panel surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Use clean water to rinse off the soap solution to prevent streaks.
6. Dry with a Squeegee: Remove excess water with a rubber squeegee to avoid water spots. In a dusty place, wet plates attract dust and will form layers of dust again in a very short time.
Using Telescopic Brushes
Telescopic brushes are ideal for reaching high or large panels. These brushes often come with water-flow capabilities for more efficient cleaning.
Soft-Bristled Brushes: Gentle on the panels but effective at removing dirt.
Extendable Handles: Can extend up to 12 feet, making it easy to clean without a ladder.
Water-Flow Feature: Brushes with water channels allow continuous water flow while scrubbing.
Steps for Using Telescopic Brushes
1. Connect the Brush to a Hose: Attach the water-flow brush to a garden hose.
2. Adjust Length: Extend the brush handle to the required length.
3. Turn on Water: Open the water valve to let water flow through the brush.
4. Scrub the Panels: Gently scrub the panels with the brush, ensuring even coverage.
5. Inspect for Cleanliness: Check to ensure all dirt and grime have been removed.
Pressure Washers
Pressure washers are an efficient and thorough method for cleaning solar panels, especially when dealing with stubborn dirt and grime.
Low-Pressure Setting: Always use the lowest pressure setting to avoid damaging the panels.
Wide Spray Nozzle: A wide spray nozzle distributes the water evenly and reduces the risk of damage.
Steps for Using Pressure Washers:
1. Set to Low Pressure: Adjust the washer to a low-pressure setting to prevent damage.
2. Wide Spray Nozzle: Attach a wide spray nozzle to distribute water evenly.
3. Rinse the Panels: Spray the panels from a safe distance to remove dirt and debris.
4. Inspect the Panels: Ensure all areas are clean and free of debris.
Conclusion
Cleanliness of solar panels are important for their long lives and maximum output. Cleaning means can be anything depending upon your convenience and availability of equipment, but regularity is unique in all ways. If you are living in dusty environment than you must clean them more often. Have a happy clean and full of PV solar system.
