The popularity of domestic solar panels increased tremendously in 2022. With the ongoing climate crisis and rising energy prices, many individuals view solar panel installation as one of the easiest steps they can take to make a difference. One solar company reported an increase of 830% in inquiries in 2022 which means many households are beginning to take solar power seriously. With the increased uptake of domestic solar panels, maintenance becomes an ever more pressing concern. The long-term performance of solar panels is dependent on them being cleaned and maintained regularly.
What happens when solar panels are dirty?
Much like your windows at home, dirt makes it hard for light to penetrate glass. This results in two main problems when dealing with solar panels.
Performance
Dirty solar panels are basically in the shade because they do not get as much exposure to direct sunlight as they should. This impacts the amount of solar power that the solar panels can generate. This means that the panels are not performing optimally and thereby producing less electricity. Domestic solar panel systems can report up to a 21% increase in solar generation after the panels are cleaned. If you have seen a decline in the performance of your solar panel, it could be an indicator that they need to be cleaned.
Maintenance
Dirty solar panels are more likely to develop problems. The weight of the accumulated dirt can cause cracks, which over time can cause permanent damage to the solar panels. Failure to clean your solar panels regularly can cause a solar panel system to not only perform poorly but also have a shorter lifespan. It’s highly recommended to come up with some type of maintenance routine for solar panels to ensure that they are functioning optimally at all times.
How are solar panels cleaned?
One of the most significant challenges of cleaning solar panels, be they commercial or residential solar panels, is the height at which you have to work at. This is why it’s crucial to have your solar panels cleaned by experts who have taken the right training and experience. At CJH Cleaning, we make use of state-of-the-art equipment to clean solar panels at really tall heights.
Moreover, our professional panel cleaners are committed to providing high-pressure jet wash cleaning services to access extreme heights where needed. Specialized non-abrasive cleaning equipment enables us to clean your solar panels while keeping our experts safe and making sure we achieve the desired results.
When should solar panels be cleaned?
Most manufacturers recommend that solar panels be cleaned at least once every 6 months. Accumulation of grime and dirt on solar panels can affect the product warranty, so it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. All in all, the frequency of cleaning should be as often as possible in order to keep your panels functioning optimally. Just like the office or home windows, glass is easier to clean when it has not been neglected and allowed to develop cracks.
What are common solar panel issues?
There are various factors that can cause your solar panels to develop issues or problems. Some require frequent monitoring to keep in check, while others can be prevented by regular cleaning.
Pollution
The effect of airborne pollution will often be influenced by the location of your home (whether it is an urban or rural setting). For instance, you may have to deal with more airborne pollution if you live near an airport or industrial site. Airborne pollution particles are more effective at blocking out UV rays than ordinary dust and dirt. With that in mind, it’s important to keep your solar panel clean if you live in an area with an increased risk of airborne pollution.
Tree Sap
Tree sap is a real problem for solar panels because it is sticky and difficult to remove. Solar panels are sometimes installed under overhanging trees that can drip seasonally. This sap is more detrimental to your solar panels than the typical dust and dirt, and should therefore be addressed as soon as possible.