Causes of Dirt and Build Up on Solar Panels
Solar panels perform better on the first day after installation. Over time, the performance reduces, and it might take more than 40 years for the decline in performance to get to the bottom. One of the causes of the decline in performance is dirt. Once you install your solar panels, they are exposed to the open air, and dust starts settling on them. The dirt blocks the much-needed sunlight making them less efficient.
Causes of Dirt and Build Up on Solar Panels
There are several causes of dirt and build up on your solar panels. The location of your home and your panels’ positioning plays a crucial part in your solar panel system and the causes of buildup. The common solar blockers include;
- Leaves
- Water
- Dust
Best Ways to Clean Solar Panels
Solar panels do not have any moving parts, and this minimizes the need for maintenance. However, proper cleaning of solar panels is an important aspect of maintenance that increases its efficiency. Below are the best ways to clean your solar panel.
Frequency
It is recommended that you carry out proper cleaning of your solar panels once or twice every year. However, some locations bring the need for additional attention. For example, the regions experiencing little rainfall have a greater accumulation of dirt on your panels and bring the need for cleaning more frequently.
Avoid using Cleaning Agents.
The best way to clean your panel is to use a rotating brush system and deionize water. Avoid using soapy water because it leaves a residue or film that shades the panels and encourages dirt to stick and build faster.
When you apply deionized water on your rotating brush system, it leaves your panel shining and spot-free. It leaves the solar panel looking as beautiful as it was when you first installed it.
Avoid High-Pressure Water Sprayers
When washing your solar panels, it would help if you avoid using a high-pressure water sprayer. Such sprayers can damage your solar panels.
Timing
Solar panels can be very hot. Therefore, it is best to carry out your cleaning process to protect yourself or the solar panel professional from burns. When you clean your panels when extremely hot, the deionized water will evaporate faster and leave a smear on them, thereby affecting their effectiveness.
The Need for a Professional to Clean Your Solar Panels
You can clean your solar panels on your own, but it is important to be cautious, especially when the solar panels require climbing on the roof. If you have doubts about performing the task safely, consider seeking a professional solar panel cleaner’s services.
A professional solar panel cleaner has the requisite experience and knowledge of the best ways of cleaning the common solar blockers.
Professionals undertake an extensive visual inspection to establish whether it is necessary to clean the solar panels.
If the cleaning process seems so hectic and risky, contact us to get an obligation free quote and provide professional services that will leave your solar panels as beautiful as newly installed.