Guide to Maintaining and Cleaning Your Solar Panels

Learn when and how to clean solar panels in KZN, understand the impact of dirt, and discover why professional cleaning is a safer choice. Get a free quote today for efficient, eco-friendly solar panel maintenance.

From Grime to Shine

Solar panels are marvels of modern technology, harnessing the sun’s power to provide clean, renewable energy. However, like any outdoor equipment, they are constantly exposed to the elements. This exposure can lead to the accumulation of dirt and debris, which can have an impact on the efficiency and functionality of solar panels.

Research suggests that dirty solar panels can lose up to 20% of their efficiency. In some extreme cases, the external resistance caused by dirt and debris can reduce the photovoltaic performance of solar panels by up to 85%. This is a substantial loss, severely impacting the long-term energy output and the overall return on investment in solar technology.

solar panel cleaning

How Does Dirt Affect Solar Panels?

Reduced light absorption impacts solar panels’ efficiency and electricity generation capability. The primary problem stems from the accumulation of dirt, dust, and grime on the surface of the panels. 

Here’s how this seemingly minor issue can have significant consequences:

  • Barrier to Sunlight: Dirt, dust, bird droppings and grime build up over time on the surface of solar panels. This layer acts as a barrier, reducing the amount of sunlight that can reach the solar cells. It’s like wearing sunglasses on a sunny day; just as sunglasses reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your eyes, dirt reduces the sunlight reaching the solar cells.
  • Impact on Power Output: This reduced light absorption results in a decrease in the overall power output. Studies have shown that even a thin layer of dust can significantly lower the efficiency of solar panels. 
  • Smoke: Here in the Midlands of KZN, South Africa, large grass areas frequently get burned. A recent study observed that solar output experienced a decline of 15-45% during days with intense smoke haze.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Certain seasons might exacerbate this problem. For example, in regions with a dry season, increased dust and less rainfall naturally lead to quicker dirt build-up on panels.

This reduction in light absorption is not a sudden occurrence but a gradual process. The longer the panels go without cleaning, the more dirt accumulates and the more pronounced the efficiency loss becomes.

Hotspot Formation

Hotspot formation is one of the less obvious yet significant problems that can arise in solar panels. This issue occurs when certain areas of a solar panel become disproportionately hot compared to the rest of the panel. 

  • Disruption in Electrical Flow: When parts of a solar panel become dirty or shaded, it disrupts the uniform flow of electricity. This can lead to some regions of the panel working harder than others to compensate for the loss in efficiency.
  • Excess Heat and Damage: Hotspots are problematic because they can damage the solar cells, reducing their life span and efficiency. In severe cases, they might even lead to the failure of individual solar cells, further decreasing the panel’s overall output.

If solar panels are not cleaned regularly, there can be a gradual but significant decline in their performance. The accumulation of dirt acts cumulatively, meaning the longer panels remain uncleaned, the more efficiency they lose.

clean solar panels

When to Clean Your Solar Panels

The timing of cleaning solar panels can vary depending on your location in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a region with diverse climates from the Midlands to the coastline. Understanding the local environmental factors is key to determining the optimal cleaning schedule.

In the Midlands, characterized by a temperate climate with a more even rainfall distribution, the best time to clean solar panels is at the end of autumn and spring. This period is ideal as it follows the rains, allowing you to clean off any accumulated debris.

Given the less humid but sometimes dusty conditions, regular monthly inspections are advised to check if additional cleaning is necessary, especially during drier months when dust accumulation can be more pronounced.

Coastal areas of KZN experience higher humidity and salt-laden air, which can leave a residue on solar panels. In these areas, more frequent cleaning might be necessary to counteract salt’s corrosive effects and deal with the mold and mildew growth facilitated by the humidity.

How To Clean Solar Panels?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean solar panels, particularly tailored for homeowners and businesses in KZN where environmental conditions can vary.

  1. Turn Off the System: Before beginning any cleaning, ensure that your solar panel system is turned off. This is a safety precaution to prevent any electrical hazards.
  2. Rinse with Water: Begin by gently rinsing the solar panels with plain water to wash away loose dirt and debris.
  3. Gently Scrubbing: If there are stubborn spots, lightly scrub the surface with a soft brush or cloth dipped in soapy water. Be gentle to avoid scratching the panels. Use a soft brush or a non-abrasive sponge to gently remove loose dirt. Avoid hard bristles or anything that can scratch the panels.
  4. Rinsing Off Soap: Thoroughly rinse the panels with your hose to remove any soap residue. Leftover soap can leave streaks and may attract more dirt.
  5. Drying: Allow the panels to air dry or gently wipe them with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials.
professional cleaners

Better to Get Professional Cleaning vs. DIY?

Homeowners and business owners often face the decision of whether to undertake the task themselves (DIY) or to hire a professional cleaning service. While DIY might seem cost-effective, there are several compelling reasons to consider professional cleaning services instead.

  • Risk of Falling: Climbing onto the roof to clean solar panels poses significant safety risks, especially for those not experienced with working at heights. Professionals are trained to handle such tasks safely. We have the necessary safety gear and equipment to prevent accidents, including harnesses and stable ladders.
  • Time-Saving: Cleaning solar panels can be time-consuming, particularly for large arrays. We can complete the job more efficiently due to their experience and specialized tools. We can also do the work while you are out at work, shopping, or busy with your day.
  • Damage Liability: We are fully insured. This means that in the rare event that something goes wrong during the cleaning process, our insurance will cover damages. This is not the case with DIY, where the homeowner bears all risks.
  • Personal Injury Protection: If a homeowner injures themselves while cleaning their panels, they are liable for their own medical costs. In contrast, the company’s insurance covers professionals for work-related injuries.
  • Thoroughness: We ensure thorough cleaning, often using high-quality, eco-friendly cleaning agents and deionized water systems that leave no residue, streaks, or spots.

No Grime Too Big, No Dust Too Small, Power Wash Cleans It All!

Don’t let dirt and grime compromise the efficiency of your solar panels! 

Given the risks and complexities associated with cleaning solar panels, professional services offer a safer, more reliable, and potentially more cost-effective solution. Ensure your panels are operating at their peak with professional cleaning services from Power Wash Solutions. 

Contact us now for a free quote and discover how our expert team can rejuvenate your solar energy system, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

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