How to Clean Solar Panels: 9 Simple Steps to Maximize Solar Energy Production
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Learning how to clean solar panels can improve the efficiency of solar energy systems and reduce home energy costs. Here are some easy steps for cleaning solar panels.
Project Overview
- Before cleaning solar panels, homeowners will want to make sure they have the right tools and equipment and feel comfortable handling the task.
- Next, homeowners will need to power the solar panels off before removing any loose debris or dust with a soft brush.
- The next step is for the homeowner to spray down the panels with a hose and scrub any problem areas gently with a soft brush and water, or a special cleaning solution for heavily soiled areas.
- Homeowners will then want to dry the panels with a soft cloth or squeegee before restarting the system.
- If a homeowner doesn’t feel comfortable tackling this project themselves, a professional can help.
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Solar panels have become increasingly popular as a source of renewable energy. By absorbing sunlight, they create a current that’s converted to usable electricity. There are many benefits of installing solar panels on a home, including reduced energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and increased home value. Solar is also becoming increasingly attainable, especially with the help of one of the best solar panel loans.
However, solar panels need to generate enough energy to reduce the need for electricity from the grid in order to justify the cost. The amount generated depends on the absorption of sunlight, so if solar panels are dirty, they’re not as efficient as they can be, especially considering the fact that the cost to install solar panels can be quite high.
In general, the best solar panels require little cleaning and maintenance in areas that receive regular precipitation. Rain can wash away much of the dirt and debris that might block a home’s solar panels from absorbing the maximum amount of sunlight. However, grime can still build up over time. Especially in dry climates or near construction or industrial sites, relying on rain to keep panels clean may not be enough. Learning to clean solar panels can help homeowners save money on solar panel maintenance costs.
Even if they were installed by one of the best solar companies (like SunPower or ADT Solar), solar panels need regular maintenance to remain at peak performance. With a few easy-to-find solar panel cleaning tools, homeowners can learn how to clean solar panels on a roof or ground array safely to boost their efficiency, as well as determine when it might be best to hire professional help for solar panel cleaning.
Why do solar panels need to be cleaned?
Many homeowners understand that solar panel systems need direct sunlight in order to function. Because solar panels are located on a home’s roof, they are bound to accumulate dust, dirt, leaves, bird droppings, and other kinds of debris. Over time, the buildup of these substances can begin to limit the amount of sunlight that the panels are exposed to, resulting in a significant drop in solar panel efficiency. This process occurs even more quickly for panels that are completely horizontal as this does not allow rain to wash away the dirt. Cleaning solar panels can keep them operating at maximum efficiency, as well as prolonging the solar panels’ lifespan. Failure to clean the panels regularly may even cause homeowners to void their solar panel warranty.
How often do solar panels need to be cleaned?
Homeowners may not be sure how often to clean solar panels. In most cases, once or twice a year is typically sufficient. However, the exact frequency that is necessary can depend on a few factors. For example, in regions that receive relatively low amounts of rainfall, panels may need to be cleaned more often. Homes whose roofs have little to no slope may also need more frequent cleaning. In the event that a neighbor is having construction done to their home, a cleaning may be necessary after the project is completed in order to remove any dust that has settled on the panels. Timing is also a factor in solar panel cleaning. The panels will need to be relatively cool so that water does not evaporate during the cleaning process. Applying cold water to hot panels can also cause them to crack. For this reason, the best times to clean solar panels are in the morning or evening, on cloudy days, or in the spring and fall months when the weather is mild.
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Beginner
Estimated cost: $50 to $100 (when supplies are first needed)
Tools & Materials
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