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Solar panels do not require constant maintenance.

However, they still need proper cleaning to ensure efficiency and extend life expectancy. This should be done at least once a year, but you may need more frequent cleaning if your location is exposed to more dirt. Some areas that may require this include the following:

• Deserts. Dust and sand could quickly accumulate on your solar panels, causing scratches and keeping them from generating as much solar energy as possible.
• Wooded areas. If you live in places with many trees, the leaves and bird droppings may fall on the panels. They can affect the efficiency of your system.
• Polluted spaces. Areas near highways, factories, and those with a high level of pollution may also need more frequent cleaning due to the speedy build-up of oil, grime, and other debris.
• Areas with extreme weather. Frequent hailstorms and hurricanes may accumulate hail and other debris on solar panels due to strong wind. Leaving them there could damage the panels in the long run and affect the amount of energy they generate.

If there is a need for minimal cleaning, you may do it by yourself. Here’s a guide on how to properly clean your solar panels.

Read the manufacturer’s manual

The manufacturer’s manual usually has information about cleaning and maintaining the solar panels. Read it carefully to see if there are any special instructions to consider. Also, if there is too much dirt to clean, and the process could put you at risk, it’s best to get the help of experts. If you are around the area, a solar company in Cheshire can do the job for you. They are trained, experienced, and equipped, so the process will be safe and effective.

Choose the day of cleaning

The solar panels can be slippery during winter and too hot during summer, so spring is the best time to clean them. Start the cleaning early in the morning or at night when the sun has already set.

Prepare your cleaning materials

Get your cleaning materials ready. It would be better to use a cleaner with a handle so you don’t have to climb on the roof. Otherwise, be extra careful to prevent falling. Some of the materials you would need are a sponge or scrub and a hose. Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the panels. If you have deionised water, you don’t need to use soap for cleaning. However, if you only have regular hose water, use the mildest soap without harsh chemicals to prevent damage and stains on the panels.

Start cleaning

Remove the leaves, dirt, and debris that you see. Use the hose or deionised water to clean the leftover grime. If there are tough stains or hard-to-remove dirt and you are not using deionised water, gently scrub them with mild soap. Rinse with hose water, and let dry.

Keep your solar panels clean and properly maintained, so they run efficiently and prevent premature damage or replacement.

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