How to clean solar panels

How to clean solar panels

By Dr. Kyle Muller

Solar panels have become an increasingly recurring solution to generate electricity both in homes and companies, and thanks to them, we can obtain clean, sustainable electricity and minimizing energy costs. In order to improve its efficiency and ensure their longevity, it is basic to keep solar panels in optimal conditions, so regular cleaning and maintenance will be key factors to prevent damage and optimize panel performance. In ecology, we explain to you How to clean solar panels to get the most out and make sure that your panels operate to their maximum efficiency.

Importance of maintenance and cleaning of solar panels

If you have or want to have a solar energy kit, you will need to keep in mind that the maintenance and cleaning of solar panels are two fundamental aspects for guarantee its efficiency and prolong your useful life. The accumulation of dust, dirt, excrement of animals, leaves or other waste can reduce the light reception of the photovoltaic plates significantly, substantially reducing its ability to produce energy. In fact, it is estimated that A dirty plate could lose between 15% and 30% of its yieldso panel conservation is a key aspect to guarantee their performance. Thus, the maintenance and regular cleaning of the panels will not only help improve their efficiency, but also allow you to prevent technical problems or a future extra cost since you will avoid some repairs.

Having an annual maintenance service will help you maintain your plates in perfect condition, in order to optimize your performance and contribute to the sustainability of the long -term system. In this way, you will take advantage of greater energy efficiency, which has a significant impact on the cost of electricity.

Products to clean solar panels

Since the cleaning of the plates is basic to maintain their efficiency and performance, using the appropriate products will be essential not to damage the panels or their coatings. In this sense, the most recommended products to properly clean solar panels are:

  • CLEANING: This is the main product if you want to achieve a good result without damaging the surface. In case of not having this one, any of the following can be used.
  • Neutral soap: Perfect to remove fat or dirt, without damaging the surface.
  • Distilled water: Avoid lime spots or other deposits that tap water can leave.
  • Microfiber or soft sponge rag: They are the best option to remove dirt and the liquid product used, while drying the surface without scratching the panels. If a brush is used, it must be very soft bristles and not apply much pressure when using it.
  • CLEAN RASQUETA: You can also use a rubber flush, which is specific to clean the crystals and avoid scratching them.
  • Water sprinkle with soft nozzles: to rinse without applying excessive pressure.

Security measures to clean solar panels

Solar panels are usually installed on high roofs, so performing good cleaning usually involves certain risks to take into account. It is important to follow certain security measures:

  • Disconnect the system: Before starting cleaning, you must disconnect the photovoltaic system to avoid electrical risks.
  • Use personal protective equipment: Helmet, gloves or non -slip footwear are essential for this task.
  • Use the precise tools: Stable stairs, safety harnesses if necessary or cleaning useful with long handles to avoid climbing the ceiling can be very helpful.
  • Avoid cleaning plates in adverse weather conditions: Especially days of snow, rain or strong wind, because the risk of suffering an accident is greater.
  • Avoid cleaning in the hours of greater solar radiation: Not only because of heat, but also to prevent panels from being damaged by a sharp change in temperature.

Steps to clean solar panels

Now that you know the importance and security measures you should take, it is time to know what steps follow to clean the solar panels:

  1. Disconnect the solar system.
  2. Check the panels To identify where it has accumulated More dirt or if the plates have suffered any damage.
  3. Starts the cleaning process with a Initial rinse using distilled water And a soft sprayer to wet the panels, so that the dirt softens.
  4. Spray the clean product or apply a soft soap solution.6
  5. Rub gently The plates with a rag, sponge or very soft brush.
  6. Rinse of the plates with water distilled to eliminate the remains of soap or product.
  7. Dry with a microfiber rag or let the solar panels dry outdoors.

To ensure that both security measures and the cleaning process are met, you can resort to a SOLAR PLATE CLEANING PROFESSIONespecially if the plates are located in areas of difficult access.

How to clean solar panels - Steps to clean solar panels

How to clean the solar panels and which is the best time

As we have pointed out, cleaning solar panels is essential to guarantee their optimal performance. But what is the right cleaning frequency? Generally, it is recommended to clean the solar panels, at least, twice a year. However, the frequency may increase in case the panels are located in areas with a lot of dirt and dust or very exposed to bird droppings.

As for the recommended schedule to maintain the plates, it is recommended to do so during the early morning or end of the afternoonbecause they are stripes in which the panels are colder and you can avoid a sharp change of temperature. Try to avoid hours of greater sun exposure to prevent burns and panel damage.

If you want to read more articles similar to How to clean solar panelswe recommend that you enter our category of renewable energy.

Kyle Muller
About the author
Dr. Kyle Muller
Dr. Kyle Mueller is a Research Analyst at the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department in Houston, Texas. He earned his Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Texas State University in 2019, where his dissertation was supervised by Dr. Scott Bowman. Dr. Mueller's research focuses on juvenile justice policies and evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing recidivism among youth offenders. His work has been instrumental in shaping data-driven strategies within the juvenile justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation and community engagement.
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