Solar panels are a fundamental part of any solar setup. They convert solar radiation into useable electricity that is used directly by appliances or stored in batteries to be used later at night or during periods of low sun availability.
However, with the passage of time, the panel's ability to convert solar radiation into energy diminishes. This could be due to various reasons but one primary reason is the accumulation of dust and debris on panels. Thus to reap the most out of your panels, their periodic cleaning is crucial.
This guide will help you find the best ways to clean your solar panels. We will also discuss related precautions, how often you should clean, and tips for exceptional outcomes.
Why should I clean my solar panels?
Solar panels do not have moving engines to produce electricity. Instead, they produce power through their photovoltaic cells. When exposed to sunlight, these cells capture solar radiation and convert it into electricity.
When this interaction is curtailed due to accumulated dirt and debris, solar panel energy production decreases. According to some estimates in the US, around 7% of solar panel efficiency is reduced by this factor. This ultimately makes it crucial to clean your solar panels.
How often should I clean my solar panels?
There is no rule of thumb about when you should clean your panel. Simply, when you notice a decrease in efficiency you can go for visual inspection. If you find a significant amount of dust or debris accumulated, then it's time for cleaning.
Another suitable option is to set periodic maintenance. For example, you can set a monthly routine to clean your panels. However, some factors that can affect the overall cleanliness of your panels are discussed below.
- Firstly, your geographical location is of the utmost importance. For example, if you are located in an area with high average rainfall, your panels will need minimal cleaning as they will most often be washed by rain. Conversely, in hot and dry areas, you might need to clean your panels yourself.
- Next is the place where your panels are installed. If your panels are placed in spaces with no trees near them, they are less vulnerable to debris like leaves, pollen, and branches. In the opposite case, debris accumulation will be frequent, eventually requiring more frequent cleaning.
- Lastly, the steeper your roof is, the less dust and debris you will have on your panels compared to plain roofs.
What tools are required to clean my solar panels?
Solar panel cleaning does not require any specific equipment. Common DIY tools like a cleaning solution, a squeegee, soft brushes, and a garden hose would be enough to fulfill the need.
The cleaning solution is of utmost importance as it helps to remove clotted debris while giving a shine to your panels. There are plenty of ready made cleaning solutions available in the market. You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar.
One easy approach to cleaning your panels is the use of pressure washing. However, it is not recommended as this can damage solar cells.
A step-by-step guide to cleaning your solar panels
Dust and dirt accumulation on anything placed outdoors is inevitable, and solar panels are no exception. However, what’s promising is that their cleaning is simple and can be carried out through simple DIY solutions.
This will keep your panels in top-notch condition, boost their shelf life, and increase their potential to produce power. However, it is crucial to follow some necessary prerequisites and safety guidelines before you start the process.
Prerequisites of the cleaning process
Before you start the process, you must understand your panels. Solar panels vary depending on their manufacturing material, so some may need extra care during the cleaning.
A simple approach to understanding panels is consulting their manual. If it’s not available, you can search your brand's website for information. Further, a well-reputed brand like BLUETTI offers 24/7 customer support, so it is the most recommended if you have access to such facilities.
Safety considerations for solar panel cleaning
Center For Disease Control And Prevention reports around 100 annual deaths due to ladder falls. Before you climb the roof ensure everything is stable and well placed.
Further, the time for cleaning is another important consideration. This is because, during peak sunlight hours, the temperature of panels could be high up to 65°C. So it’s recommended to go with the process in the mornings or the evenings.
Step-by-step guide to cleaning your solar panels
Now that you have information about solar panels and have taken the necessary safety precautions, follow the steps below to clean your panels.
- Get on the roof with all the necessary tools and gadgets.
- Remove all the attached wires to ensure there are no risks of electric shock.
- Now climb up the solar panels. You can use a small stool for this purpose. Once your height is level with that of solar panels, spray water on the panels with the help of a garden hose.
- After this, fill the garden hose with a cleaning solution and spray it again on the panels. This will help you clean any clotted debris left by water.
- Get the brush and wipe your panels throughout.
- Lastly, spray the panels with simple water once you've finished brushing, then dry them with a cloth.
How much does it cost to clean a solar panel?
The cost associated with solar panel cleaning depends on your approach. If you are cleaning it by yourself the total cost will be less than a job done through a professional cleaning company.
Solar cleaning services normally charge between $5 to $15 per panel. This varies according to your location, system size, and setup complexity. An average household has a solar setup of around 20 panels. This means you have to pay around $100 to $300 if you hire such a service.
Contrarily, if you are doing it by yourself, the material cost will be around $50. This too includes ladder as a major cost component. If you already have this, you can reduce the cost further.
Should I call a professional to clean my solar panels?
Solar panels are sensitive installations that need careful handling. While cleaning them by yourself, there are always chances of injury. So its recommended to hire professional solar cleaning services.
Additionally, hiring a services company could give you estimates about the overall working efficiency of your solar system and whether you need any maintenance or not.
There are plenty of washing companies available online that can serve the purpose. However, if you are facing difficulty in finding any specific solar panel cleaning services, you can contact glass washing companies. In most cases, they are also offering the services of solar panel cleaning.
Is cleaning solar panels worth it?
Yes! Cleaning your solar panels is totally worth it.
Firstly, it's part of the regular maintenance process of your panels that can help you inspect your installations thoroughly. Further, it significantly boosts the efficiency and output capacity of your solar panels. However, you do not need to do it frequently. Even two times a year is enough to maintain your panels in good condition.
Hiring a professional to fulfill the need could be a burden on your pocket. You can opt for self-cleaning. Make sure you have marked the necessary precautions before starting the process. If you have solar panels from BLUETTI, you can call customer care for help.
Do Portable Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
Except for their ability to be commuted, portable solar panels are the same structures as standard panels and need cleaning. However, the cleaning process is easy for portable panels.
You don’t not need to climb the ladders and the job could be done only by unfolding the panels, washing it or cleaning it with a wet cloth. You can place them wherever you want. And in case of high dust accumulation, you can even rinse them to clean.
Further, reputed brands like BLUETTI offer portable panels with an IP67 waterproof rating. This means you can even use the direct stream of water to clean you panels.
What are the best solar panels for my home?
The shift towards solar power is self-explanatory. However, with the market brimming with a lot of choices it is overwhelming to choose the best panels that are reliable, cost effective, and could effortlessly meet with your requirements.
Additionally, dirt and debris significantly impact the overall efficiency of your panels. So systems with high-efficiency ratings and power output capacity are crucial.
To save you from this hectic process, we have outlined two top solar panel choices from BLUETTI. Both panels are composed of monocrystalline silicon, the most recommended material for manufacturing solar panels.
BLUETTI PV200 Solar Panel
This 200W capacity panel can effortlessly fulfill the power needs of your small to medium home appliances. The product is weight and portable, making it the perfect choice for small off-the-grid trips.
With its exceptional, industry-leading 23.4% efficiency ratings, it ensures that you never run out of power, even during cloudy days. Its ETFE coating and IP65 junction make it splash-proof and withstand harsh weather conditions.
Further, to ensure you get the best deal, these panels come with a PRICE MATCH GAURANTEE. This means you can claim the extra amount within 30 days of purchase, if found them costly as compared to any related product.
BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel
This portable power solution with its 350W output capacity could effortlessly fulfill the power needs of small fridges, coffee makers, small gadgets like laptops, and other similar home appliances.
Even in bad weather conditions, its industry-leading 23.4% efficiency ratings supply continuous power juice to your batteries to ensure a reliable power supply. Its ETFE coatings and IP65 water resistance make it a reliable partner to withstand all harsh weather conditions.
Made up of monocrystalline solar cells, offer more power output while occupying only a small space. Further with foldable dimensions of 35.6 X 24.1 X 2.5 its easy install and carry. This product also offers a PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE to ensure the best prices in the town.
The bottom line
Cleaning of solar panels is crucial to ensure a reliable power supply. This boosts the overall power production of your panels and ensures their extended shelf life. However, solar panels are handled with care products so following necessary precautions is critical.
BLUETTI solar panels are best to rely on in every aspect either its durability, life span, efficiency, or output capacity. What’s most exceptional is the pricing with a guarantee of the lowest price amongst the competitors. Explore their wide list of solar panels and choose what aligns best with your personal needs.
