Cleaning solar panels that had been in operation for 15 months doubled their output of electricity.
Why clean solar panel.
Solar panels that were cleaned professionally had a 12 higher output of electricity compared to those cleaned by rain.
They found that tilted panels don t require cleaning as much as flat panels.
Keeping solar panels clean can also improve their efficiency.
The same study also found that rain is not a satisfying way of cleaning solar panels.
Why is solar panel cleaning important.
When cleaning solar panels it is essential to use the right cleaning equipment.
Solar panel wash modifies the surface tension of the water so instead of water beading up it will form a continuous film across the solar panels to lift dirt and debris.
Solar panels are prone to accumulating dirt.
Airborne dust particles sticky tree and plant sap lichen soot and bird droppings are just a few of the things that can contribute to a build up of dirt on your panels.
However unless you live somewhere with high amounts of smog dust dirt or sand blowing around solar panel cleaning is generally not necessary.
Solar panels are generally self cleaning but in particularly dry areas or where panel tilt is minimal dust and other substances such as bird droppings can build up over time and impact on the amount electricity generated by a module.
Why clean solar panels.
So in conclusion why clean solar panels.
This was confirmed by another study by engineers at the university of california san diego which found that a minimum five degree angle helped debris to slide off the panels.
If you think fluctuations in your energy bill could be because you need solar panel cleaning see if the efficiency returns to normal after a good rain.
Unless a homeowner can show proof of regular cleaning their warranty might be voided.
Accumulation creates shading and will prevent sunlight reaching the cells.
Solar panel cleaning keeps your warranty in tact helps your solar panels produce the maximum electricity and importantly saves you more money in the long term.
There are some solar power manufacturers that require ongoing cleaning in order to honor the warranty.
Grime and bird poop doesn t need to cover an entire panel to have an effect.
There are several reasons you ll want clean solar panels.
For starters cleaning your panels and ensuring they are kept in good working condition protects your warranty.
If your solar panels are installed on the ground then you can opt to use a simple sponge to clean them up or a soft brush as well.
The glass is strong but using abrasive materials can scratch the surface of the glass reducing its performance or even damaging the module.
In most cases occasional rain will be enough to naturally and safely keep your solar panels clean and free of debris that could lower production.
Cole said solar panel wash is especially helpful in arid locations where dust is high and water is scarce because the wash allows for less water to be used in cleaning.
If you find the functionality is still acting wonky it might be something electrical that needs fixing instead of just cleaning.