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Maintaining clean solar panels is key to receiving the full benefits of a solar-powered system. Here we’ve combined our top tips to help answer any questions you may have about keeping your solar panels clean and in good condition either through safe DIY methods, or through expert maintenance services.
Do Solar Panels Need Cleaning?
Solar panels are actually designed to be self-cleaning, meaning you don’t need to constantly worry about the cleanliness of your panels.
This is because the panels are coated with a special coating, called hydrophobic coating, this prevents water droplets sticking to the surface, this takes the dirt and debris away with it when the water falls off. We have plenty of rain in the UK that ensures any excess dirt on your solar panels is washed away.
However, it may be necessary to clean your panels during a dry period with little to no rain, or if there is a build-up of dirt such as moss, grime, and bird droppings if your panels are close to trees. These elements can severely impact the production capabilities of your solar panels, as even the smallest bird dropping can cause shade which will become damaging for the panels’ performance. We already have a handy guide on Bird-Proofing Your Solar Panels if you are looking for a way to prevent damage or the need for extra cleaning.
How to Clean Solar Panels Safely
As long as it is safe to do so, you can clean your solar panels yourself. Here are our recommendations if you opt to clean your panels:
- Choose the Right Time
We recommend that you clean your panels during cooler parts of the day – early morning or late evening – to avoid thermal stress that can crack the glass. Make sure to avoid cleaning during heatwaves, as sudden temperature changes can damage the panels.
- Prepare the Necessary Tools
You may need a telescopic pole with a soft-bristle brush, a hose with a gentle spray nozzle, warm water mixed with a mild, biodegradable detergent, and a soft cloth or squeegee for drying.
- Turn Off the System
Ensure your solar system is turned off before cleaning to prevent any electrical hazards. If you’re feeling unsure, refer to your system’s manual for specific shutdown procedures or contact our team for advice.
- Clean From the Ground
For your own safety, you should clean your panels from the ground, use a telescopic pole to gently scrub the panels, starting from the top and working your way down. This method prevents dirt from falling onto already cleaned areas.
- Rinse and Dry
Rinse the panels thoroughly with clean water to remove any detergent residue, then use a squeegee or soft cloth to dry the panels, this will prevent water spots that can affect performance.
For commercial solar panels, we have written a handy guide on ‘How to Maintain Your Commercial Solar Panels’, which goes into more detail on how to keep your panels performing optimally, including how we can assist you with this.
DIY Solar Panel Cleaning
If you do decide to clean your solar panels yourself, you might want to know what to clean solar panels with and how to go about it. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Only use mild, biodegradable cleaning products in order to prevent damage to the panels as well as the environment. Bleach and harsher chemicals can strip away that protective coating on your panels, reducing efficiency and causing permanent damage.
- Don’t Use Power Washers:
High-pressure water can further damage the panels and their seals, instead, consider using a hose with a soft brush attachment. A soft cloth and mild soap are also a practical option.
- Inspect for Damage:
Set yourself regular reminders to check for cracks, chips, or other signs of wear that may require professional attention. Ideally you should be inspecting your panels at least every six months to check for damage. It’s recommended to have your panels professionally inspected every 5 years. At East Yorkshire Solar, we offer comprehensive services for in between at home, regular inspections.
- Stay Safe:
Don’t risk your safety, if your panels are on a steep or high roof, consider hiring a professional to avoid accidents.
Professional Solar Panel Cleaning
While you can undertake your own cleaning and monitoring of your solar panels, regular professional maintenance can ensure your system performs better for longer. Qualified technicians can perform in-depth assessments and fix issues that may not be visible during casual inspections.
In East Yorkshire’s climate, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your solar panels performing at their best. At East Yorkshire Solar, we provide comprehensive operations and maintenance services for both domestic solar panels and commercial solar panels tailored to the local environment, ensuring your panels stay efficient all year round.
For commercial-scale installations, we have MCS-certified technicians (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). This certification is a UK-based quality assurance scheme that ensures solar panels and other renewable energy systems meet specific standards. You can find out more about what this means for you in our blog ‘Illuminating the Path to a Greener Tomorrow’.
Why Choose East Yorkshire Solar
At East Yorkshire Solar, we offer comprehensive services to maintain the upkeep of your solar system. Our expert, local team is well-equipped to provide the necessary repairs and maintenance as part of our services in order to keep your system in excellent condition.
Learn more about what makes us different on our Why East Yorkshire Solar page.
Further Support
We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our team of experts today for further guidance and advice, or receive your instant quote.
Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk
Telephone: 01482 230 422