Solar Service Plans

Regular cleaning of solar panels is crucial to ensure optimal performance and maximize energy output. Cleaning your solar panels at least twice a year is a recommended maintenance practice for several reasons.

1. Firstly, accumulated dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris can form a layer on the surface of the panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight effectively. This layer acts as a barrier, diminishing the amount of sunlight reaching the photovoltaic cells and subsequently lowering energy production. Regular cleaning helps to eliminate these obstructions, allowing the panels to function at their full capacity.
2. Secondly, seasonal changes can bring varying environmental conditions, such as pollen in spring or dust storms in summer, which can impact the cleanliness of your panels. Cleaning twice a year helps counteract these seasonal challenges, ensuring consistent energy generation throughout the year. Additionally, a biannual cleaning routine allows you to inspect the panels for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunctions, enabling timely repairs and prolonging the lifespan of your solar energy system.

Overall, regular semi-annual cleaning is a proactive measure to maintain the efficiency, reliability, and longevity of your solar panels.

Cleaning your solar panels yourself requires some basic equipment to ensure a thorough and safe job. Here’s a list of essential items you might need:

1. Soft Bristle Brush or Mop: Use a brush or mop with soft bristles to avoid scratching the surface of the solar panels. Hard brushes may damage the protective coating on the panels.

2. Deionized Water or Distilled Water: Using deionized or distilled water helps prevent mineral deposits on the panels, ensuring a streak-free finish.

3. Mild Detergent or Solar Panel Cleaner: Choose a mild detergent or a cleaner specifically designed for solar panels. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the panels or their coatings.

4. Bucket: For mixing water and detergent or cleaner and for carrying your cleaning supplies.

5. Squeegee or Soft Cloth: Use a squeegee or a soft, non-abrasive cloth to wipe away water and residue, leaving the panels clean and streak-free.

6. Telescopic Pole or Ladder: Depending on the height and accessibility of your solar panels, you may need a telescopic pole or a ladder to reach them safely.

7. Safety Equipment: If you’re working at height, ensure you have the necessary safety equipment, such as a harness, to prevent accidents.

8. Gloves and Eye Protection: Wear gloves to protect your hands and eye protection to shield your eyes from any splashes or debris during the cleaning process.

9. Dust Mask: If your solar panels are located in dusty areas, wearing a dust mask can help protect your respiratory system.

Before you start cleaning, refer to your solar panel manufacturer’s guidelines and warranty information. Some manufacturers may have specific recommendations or restrictions on cleaning products and methods to ensure you don’t void the warranty. Always exercise caution and follow safety guidelines, especially if you need to climb a ladder or work at heights.

Solar production gains after cleaning can vary based on factors like dirt accumulation, local climate, and panel efficiency. Typically, regular cleaning is reported to boost energy output by 5% to 15%, but it can increase as much as 35%! Dirt, dust, and bird droppings on panels create a barrier, limiting sunlight absorption. Cleaning removes this obstacle, enabling panels to operate at full capacity. Not all systems experience the same increase; results may be minimal if panels are relatively clean or if frequent rain naturally cleans them.

For a more accurate estimate, monitor your system’s performance before and after cleaning using solar inverters or monitoring systems. Comparing data can reveal the effectiveness of the cleaning process for your specific setup.