With the increasing number of solar panel installations across Australia, many customers wonder, “How do I effectively clean my solar panels?” Fortunately, we’re here to offer professional insights, tips, and advice to help you maximize the efficiency of your solar panels throughout the year.
Why Clean Your Solar Panels?
Solar panels are an exceptional method for generating clean, renewable energy, ultimately saving you money from the comfort of your home. These panels are meticulously designed to capture energy from the sun’s rays and convert it into electrical current, which is then stored in batteries connected to your home for future use.
As long as your panels receive sunlight, they will continue generating energy. However, you might wonder why cleaning your solar panels is necessary. The answer lies in accumulating various elements such as dust, grime, bird droppings, and other debris, gradually forming layers on the panels over time. These layers disrupt the energy-generating capabilities of each panel. Therefore, regular cleaning, typically every six months, depending on local foliage, fires, seasonal factors, etc., becomes essential to maintain optimal performance.
How Should You Clean Your Panels?
Solar panel cleaning and maintenance are not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Our professionals view it as an ongoing process that requires preparation and attention to detail for optimal outcomes. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved:
The Right Equipment
Cleaning solar panels effectively is akin to an art form; having the right tools is paramount to success. Before starting the cleaning process, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Safety harness
- Heavy-duty enclosed shoes and gloves
- An extension ladder to reach higher panels safely
- A long garden hose equipped with a spray nozzle for efficient rinsing.
- A soft bristle brush to gently remove stubborn debris.
- Sponges or microfiber cloths for applying cleaning solutions
- An extension pole for reaching panels in elevated positions
- Plastic sheeting to protect nearby areas from potential runoff.
- Solar panel cleaning solution or a mild soap to effectively cleanse the panels without causing damage.
By following these steps and using the appropriate equipment, you can ensure the cleanliness and efficiency of your solar panels, thereby maximizing their energy-generating potential.
Cleaning the Panels:
To initiate the cleaning process, it’s essential to start by rinsing the panels thoroughly with water. This initial step effectively loosens and eliminates the surface layers of dirt, facilitating a more thorough cleaning process.
Following the rinsing stage, mix your cleaning solution with ample soap. Subsequently, administer the solution onto the panels using either a sponge or a microfiber cloth. Opting for microfiber cloths is recommended due to their lower likelihood of causing scratches on the panels.
Proceed by gently brushing over the panels using a soft bristle brush, paying particular attention to any persistent areas of grime or dirt.
Upon completion, rinse off the panels once again and dry them meticulously using a clean cloth. This helps prevent streaks and aids in identifying any overlooked spots, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning outcome.
Call A Professional
While cleaning your panels yourself can be cheaper, considering the importance of maintaining optimal performance and safety standards for your solar panels, entrusting the task to a professional is highly recommended.
Professional cleaners possess the expertise, tools, and equipment to ensure thorough and safe cleaning. Moreover, their trained eye can detect faults such as cracks or chips that might compromise your panels’ efficiency.
By relying on professionals, you can rest assured that your panels will operate at peak capacity, maximizing their energy output. However, if you tackle the cleaning yourself, ensuring you have the right tools and follow proper procedures is crucial for achieving the desired results.
Contact our team today if you would like to book your panels in for a clean.
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