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Ways to Clean Solar Panel Through the 4 Seasons

 



It is quite understandable that solar panels are exposed to dirt, dust, and bird droppings throughout the year. A lot depends on where you reside. Also, there could be seasonal issues that affect panels. The onus lies exclusively on you to ensure that these are managed adequately. In this article, we will focus on the procedures of solar panel maintenance during each season. We all know that in the US, there are primarily four seasons. 


Below are our tips for cleaning solar panels in California and other similar places with identical weather for each part of the year. 

 

  1. Fall 

 

As you might predict, a huge number of falling leaves can obstruct an excess of sunlight when you allow them to pile up on your solar panels. But even a meagre number of leaves can have a major impact on power generation too, because of how solar panels operate: 

 

  • The photovoltaic cells that comprise a panel are wired in series. If even one cell is entirely concealed by a leaf, the total panel becomes less effective. 
  • You need to remember that the solar panels themselves are wired together in strings as well, like series circuits and attached with an inverter. When one panel in the circuit faces problems, all others will be affected too. 
  • As a consequence, a single large leaf can influence a total row of panels if it entirely covers a single solar cell. While more leaves keep stocking, the electricity output continues to decline. 

 

As a solution, you can always clean the leaves all by yourself. However, you should catch hold of a rake that is particularly meant for solar panels. Else, you will end up damaging the surface of the solar panels, and your manufacturer warranty may be cancelled due to coarse handling. 

 

2. Winter 

 

Ice and snow are the main challenges for solar panels with the arrival of the winter season. Maximum high-quality modules feature low-temperature ratings and will never be damaged by cold weather. However, a thick layer of snow can prevent sunlight and impede electricity production. 

 

  • Snow has to be cleaned from solar panels and other roof surfaces as early as possible. 
  • Else, there is a possibility that snow can melt and freeze back into ice, which is more challenging to get rid of. 

 

The sun can facilitate you by melting a few of the ice and snow on your roof. However, solar panel cleaning might still be essential after a heavy snowfall. Here also, you will require a specialized solar panel snow rake. Refrain from using ice scrapers and any other tools that may scratch or damage solar cells. 

 

3.Spring 

 

There is a lot of pollen in the air during spring. It may pile up on solar panels and minimize energy production. Regular washing is suggested during this season to avoid the accumulation of pollen. When you’re unsure how much pollen you might store, a lot of weather forecasts offer information on pollen levels. There are online resources too where you can evaluate pollen counts for your zip code. 

 

Pollen allergies are quite frequent, and they try to aggravate during spring. If you or someone else in your family is sensitive to pollen, then it is better to hire a professional experienced in commercial solar panel cleaning as well to prevent direct exposure. 

 

4.Summer 

 

During summer, the cleaning needs of solar panels will be based on your climate and weather conditions: 

 

  • In locations that receive a lot of rain during summer or hurricane season, there is hardly any necessity to clean your panels as the weather will perform the task for you. 
  • Areas with less rainfall are inclined to be hot and dry during summer, which is fire season. During this season, regular maintenance may be mandatory to get rid of additional ash, dust, and other particles. 

 

Solar panels can achieve their optimum electricity savings during summer, as there are extra hours of sunlight each day. But this is only applicable if they are kept clean of grime. Dirty solar panels will always produce a lower energy output, irrespective of the season. 

 

Inference 

 

This was the guide to solar panel cleaning through the seasons. It is not that you have to follow the same procedure every season. 

Location: United States

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