Solar panels are usually self-cleaning, but specifically in dry areas or where panel tilt is less, dust and other substances like bird droppings can build up over time and affect the amount of electricity generated by a module. Dirt and bird poop doesn’t have to conceal a complete panel to have an effect. This is where cleaning solar panels in California may have to be done.
Tips for cleaning solar panels glass
Safety first for cleaning solar panels – follow the methods in your manual for shutting down the system before beginning cleaning.
Clean solar panels from the ground
For safety reasons, it’s also better to clean your panels from the ground if feasible. A standard quality soft brush and a squeegee with a plastic blade on one side and a cloth-covered sponge on the other combined with a long extension can make for the perfect tools letting you stay on the ground. Apply a hose with a perfect nozzle to let the stream of water reach the panels.
Remember that, if cleaning your panels from the ground is not feasible, do not try to access your rooftop unless you have the proper safety equipment and training. If you don’t, deploy an expert in solar panel cleaning services in California.
Optimally time the cleaning of the solar panels
Clean your solar panels on an overcast day, early in the morning or in the evening. If the sun is beating down on the panels, any water used can fast evaporate and dirt will become dirtier.
Early morning can be an exceptionally suitable time for cleaning as the dew that has settled on the panels overnight will possibly have softened grime. That means you’ll have to apply less water and less energy to clean your solar panels.
Materials and methods for solar power cleaning in California
When the panels are dry, before tackling the modules with water, brush off any loose materials initially as this will make cleaning quicker and simpler.
Refrain from applying metal objects or harsh abrasive products to remove caked-on materials. Scratching the glass on a solar panel can impact its performance as scratches will cast shadows. Do not use detergents if feasible as these may streak the glass of the panel. The application of abrasive powders also jeopardizes scratching the panels.
According to the nature of good quality solar panel glass, clean water and a little scrubbing with a coarse cloth covered sponge or a soft brush should remove the most stubborn grime. Plastic scourers may also be utilized.
If your mains-supplied water is hard with mineral-rich and rainwater is available, utilize that as a final rinse, then squeegee dry. If hard water is all you have, please make sure that you squeegee well as mineral-ladened water can form deposits on the glass as it dries.
Handing oily stains
Oily stains can happen in some installation scenarios, like if you reside near an airport and are under a flight path or if you live near a major roadway frequented by trucks. If oily stains begin to appear on your panels, isopropyl alcohol can be applied as a spot-cleaning substance.
The final word on solar panel cleaning
There is an old saying that if it isn't broke, don’t fix it. It is applicable in most residential installation scenarios; cleaning solar panels just isn’t worth the bother or the probable risk of accessing your rooftop. Unless dirt is clearly evident or performance is visibly impacted, just allow nature to do the job for you like it does in generating solar power.
Great blog,
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