Solar panel cleaning - what to do and what not to do

But if in some areas with little rainfall, some of the time may experience drought, during which time dust, bird droppings and other air pollution can accumulate on the solar panels over time, in addition, if there are trees near the solar panels, especially deciduous trees, they can drop leaves onto the solar panels and attract birds. The buildup of each of these things can affect the efficiency of the solar panels, and it makes sense that when solar panels are not affected by these things, the conversion efficiency of solar energy may reach its peak.

How often should I clean my solar panels?

In general, for areas where it doesn't rain all year round, it is best to clean once every 6 months. However, if extreme weather conditions are experienced for an extended period of time, such as fires, dust storms or heavy rains, then the panels may need to be cleaned more frequently. Or the home is near a highway or construction site - both of which generate excessive airborne dust and will require more frequent cleaning of the solar panels.

How to clean solar panels

Safety first, basically, anyone should get up on the roof to do some work at height while wearing a safety harness or helmet. Also choose a cooler day to climb on the roof and clean it, as roofs usually give off a lot of heat, which can make the job more difficult.

If you want to clean your solar panels yourself, you should find the right materials to use. For best results and to ensure that you don't scratch your solar panels, simply clean dirt and debris with water and a soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Just as when using glass windows or washing a car, blot dry with absorbent water to avoid leaving residue. If you need to use soap, do not use anything stronger or harsher than the detergent used to wash the dishes, as it may corrode the surface of the solar panels.

What not to do

To avoid damaging the panel when cleaning it yourself, be sure to use the correct supplies. Do not use:

Harsh soaps, such as strong detergents or soaps containing chemicals, as they can corrode the surface of the solar panel.

Rough cleaning tools, such as abrasive cloths or large-toothed brooms, may scratch the surface of the panels.

Never stand on the solar panels either, as the weight may cause them to break.

Don't forget to check the panel regularly

Also, don't forget to check the solar panels regularly to make sure they are not damaged or cracked and that there are no nests built by birds and rodents.

Of course, if conditions allow, you can also hire a professional to help you clean the solar panels.