Why and how to clean solar panels?

Did you know that simple actions can significantly boost the performance of your solar panels?

In this article, you will discover the importance of maintaining your solar panels as well as the recommendations to follow to preserve their performance.

Why Clean Your Solar Panels?

Impact of Dirt on Performance

When dirt and other debris accumulate on solar panels, it can reduce the amount of electricity generated. Over time, this buildup can damage the panels and compromise overall performance.

• Reduced energy efficiency: Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight and converting it into electricity. However, external factors like dust, leaves, pollen, or pollution can accumulate on the surface, limiting light access. This significantly decreases electricity production and system performance.
• Long-term accumulation: If panels are not maintained regularly, dirt will continue to build up, forming a thicker layer. Over time, this accumulation could damage the panels and shorten their lifespan.

Durability and Longevity of Panels

Regular maintenance of solar panels also plays an important role in extending their lifespan.

• Protect your investment: Regular cleaning increases the lifespan of solar panels, ensuring a better return on your initial investment.
• Lower maintenance costs: Regular cleaning is a preventive measure. Proper maintenance helps avoid costly issues and reduces repair costs, promoting long-term efficiency.

Environmental and Financial Aspects

In addition to technical advantages, properly maintained solar panels offer significant ecological and economic benefits, enhancing their added value.

• Maximize financial returns: Well-maintained panels generate more energy, resulting in higher profitability.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Better renewable energy production reduces dependence on fossil fuels, decreasing the carbon footprint and supporting a more sustainable future.

When Should You Clean Your Solar Panels?

Environmental Factors

Various environmental factors can affect how often your solar panels need to be cleaned.

• Geographic location: Dust levels vary by region. Whether rural, urban, or coastal, dirt accumulation on panels differs depending on the location.
• Seasonality: Certain seasons call for more cleaning, such as spring (pollen) and autumn (falling leaves). It’s advisable to clean panels after these seasons. Summer is typically the most productive season for solar energy, so cleaning just before this period is also recommended.

Signs Cleaning Is Needed

To maintain your panels’ efficiency, it’s important to recognize signs that cleaning is required.

• Drop in performance: A noticeable drop in energy production is a strong indicator that it's time to clean the panels.
• Visible buildup: If the panels appear visibly dirty, it's crucial to act quickly to prevent efficiency loss.

How to Clean Your Solar Panels?

Preparation Before Cleaning

Before starting, it's important to take certain steps to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Safety first: Safety should be your priority. Turn off the electrical supply to avoid electric shock. If using a ladder, make sure it's on stable ground. Use protective gear like gloves and goggles to protect from debris or splashes.
• Optimal conditions: Clean your panels when it’s cool or cloudy to prevent quick evaporation of water. Morning or late afternoon are the best times.

Cleaning Methods

There are several cleaning methods to ensure your panels remain effective.

• Manual cleaning: Use a cleaning pole with water flow and a special solar panel brush. Avoid rough sponges or hard brushes that can damage the surface. Connect the pole to a water source and clean from top to bottom to let dirty water run off.
• Products to avoid: Avoid harsh chemicals, such as strong detergents or alcohol-based cleaners. These can damage the panel coating. Use mild solutions or just water to preserve the panels’ integrity.
• Use of demineralized water: Demineralized water is recommended to prevent lime residue. Simple water demineralization systems, like filtering resins, help obtain Pure Water suitable for solar panel cleaning.

Professional Cleaning Services

In some cases, hiring professionals can be beneficial.

• When to call a professional?: If your panels are hard to reach, such as on steep roofs or at high elevations, or if dirt buildup is too much to handle, consider hiring professionals. They can clean the panels safely and effectively.
• Benefits of professional services: Professionals have the right tools and expertise to clean thoroughly. They may also inspect the condition of the panels and offer maintenance advice, which can help extend their lifespan and maintain performance.

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

To keep your solar panels in good condition, it’s essential to follow an appropriate cleaning schedule, depending on environmental and local conditions.

• Annual or biannual maintenance: Cleaning your panels at least once or twice a year is generally recommended to ensure proper function.
• Special cases: In agricultural or indus