When it comes to solar panel cleaning, the answer is a resounding yes. To ensure optimal operation and efficiency, it is recommended to clean solar panels regularly. The frequency of cleaning depends on the environment or the time of year. For instance, if you live in an area with less rain, you may need to clean your solar panels more often than someone who lives in an area with a lot of rain. A study from the University of San Diego found that in almost every situation, it's not worth hiring a professional to clean the panels.
However, there are some exceptions to this. Industry experts suggest cleaning panels at least twice a year to keep your investment in the best shape and with the expected return. Researchers have installed collectors at specific sites to determine what type of dirt accumulates on solar panels; if special materials can prevent dirt from accumulating; and if special, less expensive washing systems can better remove dirt from the panels. Some types of panels have inverters under the panel and can be easily destroyed with a jet of water. If bird droppings cover part or all of a solar panel, energy production could be minimal or nonexistent. Cleaning solar panels requires a clean sponge and mild detergent to effectively remove dirt.
If your roof is low enough to spray it from the floor, but high enough to need a pressure washer or nozzle to concentrate hose pressure, don't throw solar panels directly with strong, high-pressure pulses of water. It's important to remember that solar panels heat up in the middle of the day, so it's best to schedule the cleaning time at dawn, dusk, or on a cloudy day, when the surface will be relatively cool. The solar industry is also constantly offering new ideas for much smoother maintenance. Helping to remove snow from panels is safer and warmer during the day, when the sun comes out, although with the angle of the panels and the smooth surface, it's likely that the snow doesn't need help to melt. In conclusion, if you have installed solar panels and powered them for a good amount of time a year, it is generally recommended to clean them every 6 months or a year to maintain their productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness. It is important to have information about the roof materials, roof pitch, square meters of the solar panel and photographs or digital representations of their placement on the roof. Cleaning your solar panels is essential for optimal performance and return on investment.
While it may not be necessary to hire a professional cleaner every time, regular maintenance is key for keeping your system running smoothly. With proper care and attention, you can ensure that your solar panel system will continue to provide you with clean energy for years to come.
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