The surface of solar panels is quite delicate, so manufacturers use protective glass to avoid damage to the working segments. Installing solar panels on the roof of a building saves significantly on electricity costs.
However, some manufacturers claim that the surface of the panels must be cleaned regularly to maintain effective performance. Below, we will try to answer the questions of what to wash photovoltaic panels with and whether to wash them at all?
When and how to wash photovoltaic panels?
The difficulty lies not only in working at height, but also in cleaning technologies. If solar panels are not cleaned properly, they will lose their efficiency and, in extreme cases, require repair. The best time to clean photovoltaic panels is in spring/summer. Depending on what the winter has been like, the panels can have varying degrees of contamination, and the loss of production due to contamination means a loss of investment.
Cleaning solar panels is not an easy task because solar modules are mounted on roofs. Even if the solar panels are installed on the ground (as in large grid-tied power plants), there is the problem of cleaning large areas effectively. Depending on how dirty even one panel is, they can generate significant losses. In some cases, a dirty panel can produce 30% less energy.
How is the professional cleaning of photovoltaics carried out?
Some manufacturers recommend cleaning the panels on a monthly basis, as well as regularly sweeping the snow off them in winter, but we disagree with this idea. Photovoltaic panels should not be cleaned every month. With the current weather conditions throughout the year, it is sufficient to wash them once a year.
In terms of the pollution itself. Suitably located photovoltaics does not get dirty in a way that significantly affects its functionality. Placing it close to construction sites or other areas of potential contamination can be a problem.
But if you already wash - how?
- only use rainwater or demineralised water; ordinary water cannot be used, as the sediment it contains can remain on the glass and reduce its light transmission;
- should not be pressure washed, as this can damage the cells;
- do not use hard brushes to clean the glass - they can scratch the surface;
- refrain from using aggressive chemicals; glass does not always react appropriately to them;
- before mechanical cleaning, it is a good idea to douse the panels with water without coming into contact with rags or brushes;
- do not wet clean in the event of frost, this can damage the glass.
How is professional cleaning carried out?
While you are able to clean the panels of dust yourself once a month, you can order a professional cleaning about once a year. Using the right tools, the employees of a specialised company will clean the solar panels of dust, stubborn dirt. The advantages of professional cleaning are:
- no risk of damage;
- ensuring maximum performance after washing;
- carrying out work at height while observing safety measures;
- using appropriate tools that will not scratch the glass;
As mentioned above, as a rule, rainwater or demineralised water is used to clean the modules. Thus, an excellent cleaning effect is achieved without the use of chemicals. When the solar panel is cleaned in this way, maximum light transmission and therefore maximum energy generation is achieved.
Photovoltaic maintenance
Continuity and high operational reliability of the panels is possible if they are properly maintained. This includes the diagnosis of both all the technical equipment installed at the station and the individual components (solar modules, inverters, transformers, etc.). Carrying out periodic routine maintenance and repairs as stipulated in the equipment specifications. Monitoring the condition and strength of the metal structures on which the solar panels are mounted, the fasteners and threaded connections.
Remember that more often than the washing itself, the condition of the panels should be visually checked. Are they not soiled by leaves, bird droppings or other larger dirt on the modules. Such checking should be the basis of caring for the condition of our photovoltaics.
Cleaning photovoltaic panels - trust the professionals
As photovoltaics are nevertheless a rather significant and important installation in the course of daily operation, we should pay attention to its regular maintenance and cleaning. Of course, it is possible to do this ourselves, but it seems to be a completely unnecessary effort which, by the way, can produce rather unfavourable results.
To clean photovoltaic panels on your own, you should not, for example, use glass cleaner, but a special cleaner for photovoltaic panels and photovoltaic modules. This is a guarantee of relatively thorough cleaning of the photovoltaic installation, but it is still not recommended to do it yourself, because, despite having the right means and tools, you can make a mistake that will significantly affect the functioning of the photovoltaic panels and, therefore, the entire installation. The use of a pressure washer is also not overly advisable - it is much better to trust specialists who know their stuff and will carry out the entire process without reverse osmosis and thermal shock to the PV panels.
How to clean photovoltaic panels? The experts know best!
Photovoltaics have been gaining in popularity for a good few years now and are one of the most appreciated ecological technologies available on the market. This is unsurprising, as it is an extremely cost-effective solution, both financially and in terms of care for the environment. However, in order to enjoy efficient operation of a PV installation, it must be subjected to certain maintenance and cleaning procedures.
These are not overly complicated tasks that require a great deal of regularity, but once in a while, the individual components of a photovoltaic installation need to be cleaned. Due to the enormous popularity of photovoltaic panels in recent years, you will find specialists at your fingertips who will make panel maintenance not only inexpensive, but also extremely thorough and precise. Due to the relatively low prices of the service and the fact that many companies offer an annual service as part of the purchase and installation of the panels, it will definitely be more cost-effective to ask for help from specialists than to try to clean the photovoltaics yourself.
Professionals in the cleaning of photovoltaic panels
The cleaning of photovoltaic panels, as we wrote above, is best left to the professionals. However, it is important to choose them in such a way that you are aware of the satisfactory and satisfying end results. It is worth taking an interest in our services, for example.
Why is it so cost-effective to work with us?
Above all, because we have many years of experience when it comes to photovoltaic panels and their installation; we also know how to clean photovoltaic panels with due precision. We don't mind all the details of even the most elaborate modules and installations - we'll see to it that you enjoy the smooth operation and aesthetic appearance of these installations.
Regardless of the size and characteristics of your photovoltaic installation, you can count on 100% professionalism in terms of customer service; a professional and individual approach to every order is our huge priority, so that we can now boast a truly extensive base of regular customers.
Join them now and enjoy the satisfaction of having clean and efficient photovoltaic panels.
