How to Clean Solar Panels on Roof Safely & Easily
How to Clean Solar Panels on Roof Safely & Easily
In the last few years, several homeowners across the USA have shifted to solar energy to make their homes energy efficient, and in the process, they also took a step towards a sustainable future. But many homeowners have also complained that they have found it hard to maintain the solar panels as they gather dirt, dust, and leaves, which reduces the energy output. So, having clarity on how to clean solar panels on roofs safely and in an efficient manner can expand their lifespan and enhance their performance.
Why Is Cleaning Solar Panels Necessary?
The energy output of the solar panels maximizes when sunlight falls directly on them. With passing time, debris gets on top of them, which happens mostly in houses that are located in areas that experience frequent rainfall, dust storms, and other harsh climatic conditions.
You might experience up to a 20% reduction in power output in case a thin layer of dust accumulates on top of the panels. With regular cleaning, you not only enhance the efficiency of the solar panels but also avoid long-term damage related to molding and acid deposition.
Ensuring Safety While Cleaning
Ensuring safety should be your top priority. Roof work has certain challenges, so you should always have your safety gear on, and do not forget to put on non-slip shoes. Use a sturdy ladder to reach the roof. In case the panels are hard to reach or located on a steep pitch, don’t shy away from asking for help from a professional cleaning agency. Last but not least, do not forget to turn off the solar system before the start of the cleaning work to avoid any kind of electrical hazards.
A Complete Guide for Upkeeping Your Solar Panels
- Rinsing With Water: You should start off by rinsing the panels gently with water. You can use a garden hose to do so, as high-pressure washers can cause serious damage to the panel structure. The loose dirt and debris will be cleared in the process.
- Use of Mild Soap Solution: Put mild dish soap in the water that you are going to use for cleaning the panels, and then use it to clean the dirt in a more efficient manner. For rubbing the collected dust and dirt, use a microfiber cloth, or you can also use a sponge for it.
- Never Put Abrasive Content: It is advised not to use brushes with metal tips to scrub the dirt off the surface of the panels, and alongside that, to avoid irreversible damage to the panels, avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning.
- Drying: Once you are done with scrubbing, leave the panels for some time to dry in the air. You can put a soft squeegee to use to prevent water spots from appearing on your solar panels.
Final Thoughts
How to clean solar panels on roofs becomes essential to ensure their longevity and efficiency. As renewable energy is the way forward, you should put a little care into maintaining the solar panels to keep your investment safe in the long run.
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