A simple answer to this question is, Yes!

You must clean your solar panels on a regular basis. Over time dust, dirt, grime, and even bird droppings will begin to accumulate on the outside surfaces of your solar panels resulting in performance degradation and affecting solar energy production.

The more dust and dirt buildup accumulates on your solar panels, the greater amount of electricity is needed to generate the same power output as before. Less production means less efficiency and lower performance from your solar system which can really start to add up over time.

The good news is that cleaning solar panels is not all that difficult or expensive to do and should be done at least once per year, twice if you live in an area where there is a lot of airborne debris such as farmland, and if there are construction sites around you (lots of dust and bugs).

For those who don't know how to clean solar panels, the process is pretty simple. Continue reading this blog for the exact process!

Why do Solar Panels get dirty?

The most common source of energy on this planet comes from coal-burning power plants. This generates huge amounts of toxic fumes which are released directly into the atmosphere, some of which eventually settle onto your rooftop solar panels (similar to what happens when ash descends after a volcanic eruption or forest fire).

So it's no surprise that atmospheric pollutants will also settle onto your solar panels over time. You may not see them immediately if they are relatively small particles (less than 10 microns) but with time they do accumulate.

Other than these pollutants there is dust, pollen, ash, and bird droppings that are some of the most common contaminants that can reduce solar panel efficiency if you don't prioritize cleaning solar panels often.

Worse yet are the environmental pollutants such as automobile exhaust which contain acid rain-producing sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide particles. These can really start to eat away at your solar panels over time if they are allowed to settle.

If you live in a very polluted area it's not unusual to see roofs with solar panels that look dirty after only a few months. Sunlight will make these contaminants glow brightly, but if your panels are dusty or have begun to collect grime or algae. If you see any such contaminants your solar panels need some cleaning.

Lastly, even bugs can lay eggs on your solar modules which hatch into larvae that eventually feed on the dust on your panels reducing their efficiency. Although this is more of a maintenance issue than actual panel 'dirtiness'. These smaller life forms themselves don't degrade electricity production as much as their excrement does which is why it's important to clean the panels.

What does cleaning Solar Panels involve?

Cleaning your solar panels involves removing contaminants from their surfaces using a squeegee, microfiber cloth, and either water or specialized solvents.

If you want to use pure water as your cleaning solution be sure that it is free of any chemicals that may be harmful to the materials used in the manufacturing of your solar panel. You might even want to consider using distilled water if you have really hard water from a well – something that can destroy unprotected DC wiring over time due to mineral buildup.

Just don't try to use anything other than distilled/pure/distilled water as an alternative because there are certain chemicals that can actually damage the surface of your solar panels and/or reduce their efficiency… especially alkaline materials like soap. So remember to never use soapy water to clean your dirty panels.

If you want to use a cleaning solution then it is best way if you use a product specifically designed to clean solar panels as many common household chemicals can do more harm than good. Some manufacturers sell special formulations that work well with their own products but may not necessarily meet all of the best practices required for use on other brands (especially fluid types).

Does cleaning your Solar Panels make a difference in Performance?

Yes, it is important to clean solar panels so that the production of solar energy is at its maximum potential hence improving the performance of solar systems.

How much it affects your solar system is dependent on where you reside and if you can recall seeing a genuine cloud in the sky. If there are a lot of clouds or if your home is in woodland with leaves falling all around, your solar panels may require cleaning more frequently.

But, if you have perfectly clear skies most of the time, you don't need to clean them a lot! Wiping them down when they look dusty won't do anything since what they're collecting isn't visible. The greatest thing you can do for them is to make sure they are correctly aligned so that they get as much sunshine as possible.

Professional Solar Panel Cleaning vs. Cleaning Solar Panels Yourself

There are two main ways to keep your solar panels in top condition: have a professional do it for you, or do it yourself. Both can be effective solutions depending on the situation.

If you choose the professional route, they will likely use specialized tools and cleaning equipment that can reach higher levels of cleanliness than what is achievable if done at home. They will also have the knowledge and experience to assess any potential damage or problems that need addressing.

On the other hand, there are advantages to cleaning your panels yourself. It is cheaper, takes less time as you won’t need to wait for an appointment with a professional, and can be done more often if necessary.

If you do choose to clean your own solar panels, it’s important to take the necessary safety precautions and use appropriate cleaning solutions. You should also be aware of potential dangers such as electrical shocks or falls from heights if you are cleaning a panel on a rooftop.

It is always best practice to check with your manufacturer before undertaking any solar panel cleaning project yourself, in order to ensure you are taking the correct steps and using the right products and tools.

No matter which option you choose, regular cleaning of your solar panels is essential for keeping them in their best condition, and ensuring they run as efficiently as possible. With some basic knowledge and preparation, you can make sure your solar panels remain in peak performance over years to come.

How to clean dirty solar panels as a homeowner

Solar panels are a great way to take advantage of the sun's energy and reduce electricity bills. So it's important that these devices remain in good condition, no matter how much sunshine they get. To ensure your solar panels stay in top shape, here are 5 tips for cleaning them as a homeowner:

1. Check with your solar installer before you start any cleaning efforts. They may have specific instructions about the best way to clean your particular panels, and they’ll be able to provide advice on which products are safe to use.
2. Clear away debris. Leaves and other organic matter can build up on the surface of the panels, blocking sunlight and reducing their effectiveness. Carefully remove any leaves or dirt from the area around your solar panel array to help ensure that your panels are receiving as much sunshine as possible.
3. Use a soft-bristled brush for spot cleaning. We don’t recommend using a garden hose to clean your solar panels, as the water pressure can damage the delicate components. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap solution to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the panel.
4. Avoid abrasive chemicals or solvents when cleaning your solar panels. These harsh substances can strip away protective coatings on the panels and leave them vulnerable to scratching or corrosion.
5. Have your solar panels professionally cleaned once a year. Professional cleaners can safely remove any stubborn dirt or debris that’s collected on the surface of the panels without damaging them.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your solar panel array in top condition for years to come. Reap the rewards of going solar with a little help from solar panel cleaning best practices!

Things you should never do while cleaning solar panels

Proper solar system maintenance is essential for optimal solar power production. When cleaning solar panels, it's crucial to avoid actions that could harm your solar energy system and diminish its efficiency. Here are key points to remember:

Avoid Abrasives:

Refrain from using abrasive materials, as they can scratch solar panels' surfaces and reduce solar power production.

Mindful Chemicals:

Be cautious with cleaning solutions; use products designed for solar panels to avoid damaging solar cells and affecting maximum efficiency.

Gentle Cleaning:

Opt for gentle cleaning methods, such as using a soft microfiber cloth and water, to prevent physical damage to the solar panels.

Appropriate Tools:

Don't use high-pressure washing techniques, as they might harm the delicate components of the solar power system.

By keeping these precautions in mind while keeping your solar panels clean, you ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your solar energy system.

Conclusion

Maintaining a solar panel system is vital for peak performance. Regular cleaning of solar panels within your array is a must to prevent dust, dirt, and bird droppings from obstructing sunlight absorption. The option to pressure wash solar panels might seem tempting, but it can harm delicate components. Opt for gentle methods like distilled water and microfiber cloths.

Avoid abrasive agents and timing your cleaning during cooler hours prevents glass damage. With proper care, your solar panel array will thrive, ensuring efficient energy production and prolonging its lifespan.

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