Solar is a smart investment for Indian households that offers significant financial savings and clean energy. However, keeping clean solar panels is required to ensure a higher system life span and maintain efficiency. Over time, bird droppings, dust, and dirt can block sunlight, affecting the system's performance.
Solar panel cleaning should not be complicated, but you must know the right way to do it. This blog will guide you through the solar panel cleaning process and how Sunnyside Solar can fulfil your solar needs.
Why Cleaning Solar Panels is Essential
Maintaining clean solar panels is the primary step to ensure their longevity and performance. As mentioned, bird droppings, dirt, and dust collect on panels over time, and they block the sunlight. Even a small layer of debris can affect the efficiency of panels.
Hence, it is necessary to regularly clean panels.
It helps you ensure maximum sunlight absorption and better constant high efficiency. Further, frequent cleaning helps extend the system's lifespan by reducing potential damage and corrosion. By cleaning and maintaining your solar system regularly, you get the most out of your investment and contribute to India’s greener future.
Tools and Materials Needed for Cleaning Solar Panels
Here is what you need to use while cleaning solar panels:
- Soft Brushes or Sponge: Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to smoothly remove dust without scratching panels.
- Non-Abrasive Cloth: You can use microfiber cloths to wipe panels and avoid streaks.
- Mild Detergents: Choose biodegradable and mild soaps to clean sticky dirt from the panel without affecting the surface coating.
- Bucket of Clean Water: Sometimes, clean water is enough for regular cleaning in case of normal dirt.
- Hose with Adjustable Nozzle: Use low-pressure spray to clean the solar panel surface. Prefer low pressure water jets to avoid damaging panels.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Rooftop Solar Panels
Step 1: Preparation
- Ensure Safety First: Before cleaning, turn off the system so that there won't be any risk of electrical shock. Wear non-slip shoes, gloves and other safety gear.
- Check Weather Conditions: Prefer cleaning while the weather is cloudy or cool, maybe in the morning, to prevent soap and water from drying quickly.
Step 2: Cleaning
- For Stubborn Grime or Bird Droppings: Mx water and mild detergent, and apply it on panels with a soft sponge or brush. Wait for some time, and raise the water from the surface.
Things to Avoid While Cleaning Solar Panels
- High-Pressure Water Jets: These can dislodge or crack solar panels.
- Abrasive Tools or Detergents: Harsh chemicals or hard brushes can scratch panel surfaces.
- Cleaning During Peak Sunlight Hours: It can leave residues and streaks on panels by rapid drying of soap and water.
How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?
Cleaning frequency of solar panels depends on multiple factors, including environmental conditions, location and weather.
- Location-Based Frequency: If you live near busy roads, construction sites, or dusty areas, consider cleaning every three months. However, for cleaner conditions, cleaning every 6 months is good.
- Weather Conditions: During monsoon or heavy rainfall, there is not much need for panel cleaning. However, during winter and summer, you must consider cleaning to ensure the system performs as per standards.
Signs Your Panels Need Cleaning
A considerable drop in energy generation, despite proper sunlight, signals that there is a need for cleaning. It is because of debris, dust, or bird dropping that blocks sunlight.
By regularly checking these factors and cleaning the system whenever required, you can ensure the system operates with high efficiency and generates more energy.
Professional vs. Self Solar Panel Cleaning
Below is the difference between self-solar panel cleaning and professional one:
Self Cleaning
- Pros: Convenient and cost-saving for regular cleaning. With mild detergent, water, and a soft brush, you can easily wipe light debris and dust.
- Cons: There is the risk of falls, slips, and other safety hazards. Inexperienced people may not clean panels properly, and possibly damage panels.
Professional Cleaning
Pros: Experienced solar technicians use specialized techniques and tools while cleaning to ensure safety. Further, they can inspect technical issues, like loose connections and cracks, while cleaning and fixing them.
Cons: It has additional costs ranging from ₹500 to ₹2,000 for one session, based on location and system size.
Why Choose Sunny Side Solar for Your Solar Needs?
- Durable and Low-Maintenance Panels: We offer high quality solar panels and systems installation tailored for weather conditions in Haryana. Our highly durable system reduces maintenance and saves you annual maintenance contract charges.
- Custom Solutions for Homes in Haryana: We design and install each system according to monthly bills and available surface area, ensuring higher performance.
- Dedicated Customer Support: From consultation and installation to commissioning and legal process, we have a dedicated team for every step.
Conclusion
To ensure maximum efficiency of your solar system, regular cleaning is the key. Whether you do it yourself or seek professional help, frequent cleaning and maintenance help you get maximum returns on your investment. Planning to go solar? Choose Sunnyside Solar for low-maintenance and durable systems with expert assistance.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Can rain clean solar panels effectively?
Yes! Rain cleans solar panels, but check if there is any sticky residue or bird dropping once the rain is over. If it is available, do clean it.
2. What safety precautions should I take while cleaning solar panels on a roof?
Avoid cleaning during windy, wet, and hot weather, wear safety gear while cleaning, and turn off the system while cleaning.
3. Is professional cleaning necessary for residential solar panels?
If you see panels with a thick layer of soil or can't clean panels properly, seek the help of a professional solar cleaner.
4. Can I use normal soap to clean my solar panels?
Instead of regular soap, it is better to use mild detergent, and harmful chemicals can affect the panel surface and reduce performance.
Also Read, Is Solar Panel Worth It in India?
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