Solar panels are one of the top investments any country, home, office, or person can make. People need to clean them often to keep them working well. Although cleaning is a basic task, people sometimes make errors that can shorten the life of solar panels. Let’s explore ways of avoiding damage when cleaning solar panels:
1. Harsh Cleaning Tools
One of the biggest solar panel maintenance mistakes is when people use the wrong solar panel cleaning products. Abrasive materials like scrubbers hard brushes, and strong chemicals scratch the panels. Once scratched, you can’t fix them. The NREL did a study that shows scratched panels lose 2% to 5% of their power. It’s better to use a soft cloth or sponge to clean panels.
2. Picking the Right Time to Clean
People often believe cleaning solar panels safely in warm weather is ideal. However, washing them when it’s hot causes stress and cracks. Solar panels heat up a lot and can reach 150°F (65°C) in the sun. Putting cold water on hot panels can shock them. It’s better to clean panels early or late in the day when they’re cooler.
3. Compromising Safety
Safety remains a top priority. Many homeowners ignore the risks of cleaning solar panels on rooftops. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that roof falls cause one-third of all construction deaths. People should wear a harness and non-slip shoes when cleaning, or better yet, hire a pro for proper solar panel care.
4. Using Tap Water
Using hard tap water to clean solar panels is a big mistake. It leaves tiny mineral traces on the panel surface. These traces stop sunlight from getting into the panels. Mineral deposits reduce power conversion efficiency to 15%. People should use deionized or distilled water instead. This water gives panels a shiny clean look without streaks.
5. Skipping Regular Upkeep
Many folks don’t clean their panels often enough, even though it’s best to do it. Over time, stuff like dust, pollen, bird poop, and other junk can make panels work up to 20% worse if you don’t clean them. Keep an eye on your cleaning schedule to get the most out of your panels all year.
6. Pressure Washers Are a No-Go
You might think a pressure washer would be quick and easy, but the high pressure can mess up the seals and joints. This lets water in and causes problems down the road. A gentle spray with a garden hose does the trick to get rid of most dirt and helps avoid damaging solar panels during cleaning.
7. Don’t Stand on the Panels
Solar panels can get tiny cracks if you step or stand on them. You might not notice these cracks, but they mess up how well the panels work and how long they last. It’s best to do your work without touching the panels. If you have to reach them, use the right gear. Tools with long handles help you work on panels without stepping on them.
