Home

Home Maintenance: How to Properly Clean Solar Panels

Is it possible to clean solar panels?

One of the greatest concerns of homeowners investing in solar energy is how to clean the panels. You see, the most damaging substances to solar panels are water and debris. If these come into direct contact with the solar panel’s surface, then your hard-earned returns are going to take a dive.

Thus, it’s important to know how to keep the panels clean. Read on, and we’ll take a look at the best way for home maintenance and how to clean solar panels.

Contents

Gather the Right Cleaning Equipment

During solar panel cleaning, you need to gather the right cleaning equipment. This includes a soft brush, non-abrasive or microfiber cloth, and mild, non-alkaline soap.

You should also have access to a hose or misters for rinsing delicate electronic parts. This will ensure that the cleaning process is done safely and you don’t cause any permanent damage.

Additionally, you should also have a bucket filled with fresh, filtered water nearby for use during the cleaning process. Lastly, you may also choose to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your skin and eyes from any chemicals or dirt that might come into contact with your skin.

By having the right equipment and supplies, you can help ensure that your solar panel cleaning job goes quickly and safely.

Inspect the Panels for Stains and Debris

Start by looking for any loose debris, such as leaves, pine needles, and other dirt, that could be stuck around the edges of the panel. These can be removed with a soft brush or cloth. 

Lastly, inspect for areas that show dust, pollen, and other types of staining. If any is present, clean with a mild solution like a mixture of vinegar and water. Carefully scrub the area clean, then rinse with clean water. After rinsing, the panels are ready to be wiped dry to complete the inspection.

Prioritize Your Safety

When it comes to cleaning solar panels and prioritizing safety, it’s best to take all necessary precautions. Start by wearing protective gear, like safety glasses and gloves, to avoid any contact with harmful particles.

Additionally, it’s also important to be aware of any electrical components that may be present in the panel before beginning to clean. Unplug the power supply before the cleaning process starts. 

Get Professional Help

This would include hiring a professional to remove dust, grime, and other debris from the panel with a soft cloth or a special squeegee. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the panels are washed and rinsed thoroughly with water and the proper soap. They may even need to be waxed to protect and improve the efficiency of the panels.

Professional help can also help identify potentially greater problems, such as panel damage or wear, as well as if shading or other objects are blocking the rays from the sun. 

Home Maintenance for Your Solar Panels

Cleaning solar panels the right way is essential to ensure they remain efficient. Through taking home maintenance, preventative measures, troubleshooting, and using proper cleaning products and techniques, you can maintain optimal power output from your solar panels and reduce long-term repair costs.

Give your solar panels the care they deserve – take action now to protect your investment.

Found this interesting? Read the rest of our blog and learn more!