As the world moves towards more eco-friendly living, more and more households are opting to install solar panels. Not only are they are a great way to save money on your energy bills, but they also help to reduce your carbon footprint and work to protect the environment.
Those who have solar panels installed often believe that installing solar panels are all they need to do. However, this is simply not true. Much like a roof that accumulates dirt and debris and requires regular cleaning and maintenance to stay in top shape, so do solar panels. But, is solar panel cleaning worth it? How often should it be done? Does it even make a difference?
In this post, we will take a look at why solar panel cleaning is so important and whether it is a task you should be doing.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
A solar panel is a frame with several connected solar cells that generate a current of electricity. The more solar panels are connected together, the more electricity is produced.
When light particles hit the surface of a solar cell, it knocks electrons free. These electrons flow through the circuit and create an electrical current. Put simply, these panels convert sunlight into electricity.
If enough power is generated, this form of clean electricity can replace power from the national grid or a generator and eliminate all the harm of power from fossil fuels.
There are a number of factors that can affect how much power is generated. This includes the angle of your solar panels. If they are installed at too great of an angle, less sunlight will hit them which means they will produce less electricity.
Conversely, if they are too flat, they may not be angled correctly to receive the most sunlight. The angle of your solar panels will also depend on your location and the time of year.
Why Solar Panel Cleaning Is Crucial
Unfortunately, pollen, dust, dirt and pollution in the air will eventually end up on your panels. Not only is this unsightly, but studies have shown that solar panels generate far less electricity when obstructed and unclear. This is because fewer light particles are able to hit the panel and be absorbed.
While it is believed that the occasional rainfall can keep your solar panels clean, in many cases this can do more harm than good! As much as it can wash dirt and dust away it can just as easily carry pollution and dust onto the panels, making them dirtier than before.
As such, regular cleaning is required to keep your solar panels functioning at their best.
When To Clean Solar Panels?
Solar panels are often installed in an environment that is constantly exposed to the elements, whether this is on a roof or on the ground.
Depending on the location you live in, solar panels can quickly accumulate dust and other pollutants. While this does not drastically change your power output, you may feel the difference over time.
As such, experts often recommend that you clean your solar panels once every six months, with regular spot cleaning if they get dirty and dusty more often. Similarly, they should be cleared and cleaned after wind storms and rainstorms. This is to remove obstructing dirt, dust and debris.
Not only does this keep your panels looking good, but the extra attention can help keep your panels in good working order for longer.
Professional Solar Panel Cleaning
For the most part, cleaning solar panels are not difficult. While cleaning them yourself may seem like a great way to save money, in most cases, it’s not only a risk to your solar system but a risk to your safety as well!
To ensure that your investment is not damaged or affected by the cleaning solutions, it is a task best left to the professionals. They have the skills, equipment and expertise to do the job without any risk to your system or safety.
The Bottom Line
So, is solar panel cleaning worth it? The answer is yes!
Cleaning your solar panels are one of the best ways to maximise your energy output, not to mention keep your panels looking their best. While it may seem like a daunting task, it is one that is easily achievable with the right tools and expertise. But for those who don’t have the time, equipment or expertise, leave it to Water Attack Pressure Washing.
As a solar panel cleaning company servicing the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, we have the experience to ensure your panels are properly cleaned and with an eye for detail, we ensure not a single spot is left behind. Book your cleaning today!
