Installing new solar panels is one of the best things you can do for your home and business. In addition to reducing your energy bills, you’re beating the inevitable rise in electricity prices ahead of time. In order to ensure your new solar system works as it should, you’ll need to engage in a little maintenance. That maintenance includes Solar Panel Cleaning. But, how much do you need to do? And, how do you go about doing it?
Why do you need to clean your solar panels?
Your solar panels depend on the direct transmission of sunlight to function. Much like when the sky is murky and cloudy, the presence of lots of dirt and pollen will inhibit some of the sun's energy from interacting with the panels, preventing them from producing as much energy as they’re capable of. As most solar systems sit on roofs, they’re not at a high risk of gathering lots of dirt. However, you should inspect yours every so often to check that they’re mainly clear and receiving the sun’s rays uninterrupted.
How often do you need to clean your solar panels?
There isn’t a fixed rule for how often you need to clean your solar panels. Some of the main sources of dirt affecting them include dust and pollen from nearby trees. Providing you live in an area where rainfall is relatively regular, you’ll find that the rain does the hard work for you.
There are some instances where this doesn’t stand, though. For example, if you live in one of South Australia’s particularly arid environments you may not experience enough rainfall for Mother Nature to do your solar panel cleaning for you. Or, if you live in a breezy coastal setting you could find that pollen and dust build faster than they do when you live inland. Teams such as the ones here at Arise Solar will discuss such issues with you upon installation.
If you do need to carry out solar panel cleaning, what should you do?
If solar panel cleaning is necessary, it’s rare that you’ll need to use a detergent. All you need is a hose pipe and a fitting that’ll allow you to aim at your roof. Using a pressure that’s hard enough to spray upward but gentle enough for you to not damage your panels, rinse them every so often to make sure that no dirt settles.
In some cases, you might find that using a detergent is necessary. At Arise Solar we always advise our customers to use cleaning products that the solar panel manufacturer has stated are safe to use.
If the idea of cleaning your own solar panels makes you feel nervous, come to us instead. We offer Solar Panel cleaning and maintenance services to our customers throughout Australia. With our approach, you can make sure your panels are clean and free from anything that could make them function at a less-than-optimal level.
Are there times when solar panel cleaning becomes more necessary?
Following a large storm, there’s always a chance that debris has made its way onto your solar panels. Unlike dust, dirt, and pollen, items such as twigs and leaves won’t wash away easily with the rain. Additionally, some of them could scratch the panel surface if they’re left alone to blow against it. If you experience adverse weather events, consider checking the panels yourself or hiring a professional to do it.
When it comes to solar panel cleaning, it’s easy to manage the basics on your own. However, if you need an in-depth service or you’re not feeling confident, always call on a professional. At Arise Solar, we’re happy to clean your panels for you. Contact us today to learn more.