Having Your Solar Panels Cleaned. Is it necessary?
THEY SAY YOU PRODUCE MORE ENERGY FROM SOLAR IF YOU CLEAN THEM REGULARLY. IS THIS TRUE?
Do you need to clean your solar panels? What are the best ways to clean solar panels? Common questions we get asked by our customers.
Should you clean your solar panels? In short, yes you should.
Solar panel popularity has soared over the last two decades with panels being cheaper and more efficient than ever before. With the awareness around green, clean and renewable energy this demand has only been driven further.
As these photovoltaic systems have now been around for a while, we are starting to see customers with older systems who are seeing their power bill costs slowly creep up again.
This is partially due to aging panels, but we mostly see a reduction in efficiency when they’re dirty, dusty and covered by bird droppings, and other debris.
Like any other type of technology, solar panels require maintenance in order to continue to function at their best and one aspect of PV maintenance are periodic cleanings.
We’ve already talked about how your energy consumption should change when you get solar, now let’s discover extending solar panel life. Let’s discuss the reasons why it is important to clean your solar panels and the best ways to do so.
Why is it important to clean your solar panels?
Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. However, if your solar panels are covered in dirt, dust, or other debris, they may not be able to absorb as much sunlight as they should and thereby reduce the amount of power you’re producing with your system.
This means that if you’re not cleaning your panels regularly and clearing them of plant matter and other debris, that you’ll find your power bill creeping up again over time.
What are the best ways to clean solar panels?
There are a few different ways to clean residential solar panels, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular methods:
THE OLD Hose and Water
This is the simplest and most cost-effective way to clean solar panels. All you need is a hose and some water. Start by spraying the panels with water to loosen any dirt or debris. Then, use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the panels. Be careful not to use any abrasive materials that could scratch the surface of the panels. Finally, rinse the panels with water to remove any remaining dirt or soap.
Solar Panel Cleaning Kit
A solar panel cleaning kit contains everything you need to clean your solar panels, including a cleaning solution, a soft brush, and a squeegee. These kits are designed to be safe for use on solar panels and can help you clean your panels more effectively than just using water. We encourage you exercise caution when climbing up onto your roof. Saving a few dollars by cleaning your panels yourself might not be worth the risk of serious injury.
Professional SOLAR Cleaning Service
If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning your solar panels yourself, or if your panels are located in a hard-to-reach area, you may want to consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Companies like us, have the equipment and expertise to clean your panels safely and effectively letting you focus on the things you’d rather be doing.
Cleaning your solar panels is an important aspect of solar panel maintenance that can help ensure that your panels are functioning at their best and producing the maximum amount of energy possible. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can clean your solar panels safely and effectively, and help extend the life of your investment in renewable energy.