Introduction:
G’day Territorians! In this article, we’ll explore the optimal cleaning frequency, factors specific to Darwin’s climate, and why maintaining clean solar panels is key to maximising your energy savings in this sunny city. Whether you’re a seasoned solar user or new to the technology, keeping your panels clean will ensure you enjoy the full benefits of solar energy.
Table of contents:
- Why do solar panels need cleaning?
- How much does cleaning solar panels help?
- How often do I need to clean my solar panels?
- How do I clean solar panels?
- Hire a solar panel cleaner!
Why do solar panels need cleaning?
Let’s uncover the reasons behind this crucial aspect of solar panel maintenance. There are 3 major factors that go into why you would want to clean your solar panels.
- Reduced Efficiency: The accumulation of dirt and pollutants can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels, leading to a decrease in energy production. This means you’re not getting the full return on your solar investment, it can actually have a bigger impact to your savings than you would think. After 2 years without cleaning it could be upto 60% deficiency
- Longer you wait, the harder it is: The more time the dust and particulates have resting on your solar panels; the more time it has to be baked onto your panels, making it substantially harder to clean off
- Inspect for damages: At the same time while cleaning your solar panels, you can also inspect any panel for defects or damages that may have been caused – furthering your production loses. Since panels have incredible warranties, its best to find any damage sooner than later.
How much does cleaning solar panels help?
Cleaning your solar panels can have a much bigger impact on your solar production than you would originally think. We very commonly have our customer ring us about inspecting their faulty system as its producing up to 60% less energy than originally installed, even only 12 months prior.
If you’re noticing that your solar system isn’t producing what it was after the first 12 months of your installation, chances are they just need a good clean – read further on how to clean and how often.
How often do I need to clean my solar panels?
A general rule of thumb is to clean your solar panels every 6-9 months, however your property’s frequency may be more or less dependant on certain factors
- Air quality: If you live on a property that gets very dry and doesn’t have a lot of vegetation around, you may find the dust and earth gets kicked up into the air during the dry seasons and blows onto your panels. Conversely, if your surrounding environment is high in vegetation, you’ll find that dust doesn’t get around as easily
- Construction: If there are any major construction in your area, you will notice a large amount of air pollution from trucks, debris and general construction materials, we would recommend increasing your cleaning frequency and especially when the construction has finished
- Bush fires: Bush fires are one of the biggest culprits in Darwin when it comes to air contaminants and debris being blown over large areas. Keep an eye on your solar production during the dry seasons and if there are any bush fires near your area – you will find lots of dust and ash gets baked onto your panels
A general guide is to clean your panels ever
6-9 Months
How do I clean solar panels?
Safety First:
- Before you begin, prioritize safety. Ensure you have a stable ladder, appropriate safety gear (such as gloves and non-slip shoes), and follow all safety guidelines.
- Check with your solar panel manufacturer or installer for any specific cleaning recommendations or warnings that you should be aware of.
Choose the Right Time:
- Opt for a time when the panels are cool and not exposed to direct sunlight. Cleaning hot panels can cause rapid water evaporation, leading to streaks and spots.
Gather Your Supplies (You’ll need a few basic supplies:):
- A soft, non-abrasive brush with an extended handle (a soft bristle brush or a squeegee with a soft rubber blade works well).
- A hose with a gentle spray nozzle.
- A bucket of warm water with mild dish soap (avoid using abrasive or ammonia-based cleaners).
- A soft microfiber cloth or sponge for stubborn spots.
- A squeegee for larger installations or to ensure a streak-free finish.
Pre-Rinse:
- Start by gently spraying the solar panels with a hose to remove loose debris, such as dust and leaves. This step reduces the risk of scratching the panels during the cleaning process.
Soapy Water Solution:
- Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap in your bucket. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the panel’s surface or affect their performance.
- Dip your soft brush or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the panels. Use a circular motion, working from top to bottom.
Rinse Thoroughly:
- Rinse the panels thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue. Ensure no soap or suds remain on the surface.
Monitor Performance:
- After cleaning, monitor the performance of your solar panels to ensure they are producing the expected amount of electricity. If you notice a significant increase in energy production, you’ll know your cleaning efforts were successful.
Tropical Shine Solar Cleaning
Hire a solar panel cleaning pro!
If you’re looking for a real local business that can clean your panels, we recommend Tropical Shine Solar Cleaning – head over to their website for a quote or give them a call!
0407 472 142
sales@tropicalshinesolarcleaning.com.au
Conclusion
For homeowners in sunny Darwin, Australia, where dust and dry spells can be prevalent, regular monitoring and cleaning are especially crucial to ensure your solar panels perform at their best.
Remember that the efficiency and longevity of your solar panel system are directly linked to proper maintenance. Neglecting to clean your panels can lead to reduced energy production, increased wear and tear, and even warranty issues. Therefore, a proactive approach to panel maintenance is in your best interest.
In the end, by staying informed and taking the necessary steps to keep your solar panels clean, you not only contribute to a greener planet but also ensure that your solar energy system remains a reliable and cost-effective source of power for your home.
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