Switching to solar energy is a good idea That benefits the environment. But it is also an excellent investment that requires special care. You need to learn how to clean solar panels, as dust and dirt can cause them to produce less.
Fortunately, cleaning solar panels is very simple. You just have to take some precautions and you can do it yourself, without the need to seek professional help. If you want to learn how to properly clean your solar powered equipment, read on.
Why do solar panels get dirty?
Being installed outdoors, at the mercy of external factors, Solar panels get dirty easily. Whether it’s due to tree leaves, pollen, bird droppings, pollution or plant residues.
These impurities cause them to reduce their productivity. Hence the importance of cleaning your equipment regularly, as dirt blocks more light from reaching to transform.
So, if you haven’t cleaned your solar panels since they were installed, it’s time you considered doing so. Well, you’re wasting most of the energy that could be produced.
Is it necessary to clean solar panels?
Most photovoltaic panels have a glass surface that covers and protects them. This is the space that we must try to keep free from dustas the accumulation of dirt will only weaken the power with which the panels receive the sun’s rays.
In order for our solar equipment to work perfectly, it is necessary to provide them with simple maintenance that you can do yourself. Fortunately, it’s a simple cleanup that consists of just a few steps.
Materials for cleaning solar panels
Providing a thorough cleaning to our photovoltaic panels is easier than you think. You just have to be very careful, as you should never step on the panels to be safe.
It is for the same reason that most installations require a crane, so try to use comfortable and safe equipment. The only materials needed to clean solar panels are the following:
- Demineralized water.
- Microfiber cloth.
- Ladder or crane.
While cleaning is usually a simple and easy procedure to perform, certain precautions must be taken to avoid damaging the equipment and having to reinstall it. Keep the following recommendations in mind:
- You need to turn off the solar panels before you start clean them to avoid possible mishaps such as burns or short circuits.
- It is advisable not to clean the equipment in the presence of intense sun or in the afternoon. You can do your laundry before 9 in the morning or after 6 in the afternoon.
- Do not stand on the photovoltaic panels for any reason and don’t apply a lot of pressure when you clean the dirt.
- Pay attention that there are no loose wires or broken glass on the surface.
- Try to rinse the microfiber cloth often and keep it clean. This helps prevent the dust from spreading to other places.
How to properly clean solar panels?
This simple guide will help you clean your solar panels easily and without damaging them. Remember that this equipment is very delicate.So try to be careful.
1. Flip the switch on the electrical box
When placing solar panels in the home, the installer had to connect them to the electrical panel that supplies power to the entire house. In a correct installation, panels should have their own switch on the dashboard.
This can be raised or lowered when requested by the owner. So, before you start cleaning your PV system, you need to turn off the power.
2. Check all equipment carefully
Solar panels have a glass cover over their entire surface. Before you begin removing dirt, you should carefully examine all of your equipment for broken glass or exposed wires.
This step is vital, as short circuits can occur when using water to clean dust. In these types of cases it is best to stop and ask your installer for help.
3. Use plenty of water
Now that we’ve made sure that the solar panels are unplugged and not having any kind of problem, it’s time to start the cleaning process. With the help of the ladder or the crane, climb up to the height of the panels and moisten them with plenty of water.
Remember that demineralised water must be used to prevent patches from forming when the panels dry completely. This will remove most of the dust.
4. Clean all panels
With the help of a microfiber cloth, start cleaning the solar panels carefully and gently. Don’t apply too much pressure and try to make the movements linearly, always in the same direction.
The previous passage of water should have removed most of the accumulated dirt, therefore it is sufficient to wipe over the entire surface of the solar system with the microfibre cloth.
5. Go over and etch the surface
By now, your solar panels should be mostly clean. But if you want it to shine, you can use another clean, damp microfiber cloth for the finishing touches.
You can use a glass cleaner to give the panels a shine. However, make sure it is not corrosive and is suitable for use on surfaces exposed to direct sunlight.
How often should solar panels be cleaned?
One of the great advantages of investing in and installing solar panels at home (in addition to the benefits for the environment), is that they do not need maintenance during the first 25 years, What is the useful life of photovoltaic panels? So you shouldn’t worry about calling a technician, unless you have a serious problem.
However, solar panels should be cleaned 2-3 times a year. It all depends on the area we are in. If you live in the city, once every 6 months is enough.
This will avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt which does not allow the equipment to work with the same performance. If you don’t have time to do this, don’t worry. At comfortable prices There are companies that specialize in this type of work.
Dare to clean your home’s solar panels
Now that you know the step-by-step guide to properly cleaning solar panels, it’s time to whip out your favorite microfiber cloth and get to work. We remind you that this type of equipment does not require professional maintenance if the proper precautions are followed. Just try to keep it free from dust and dirt to make the most of your benefits.
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