How to Clean and Inspect Solar Panels

Maintainence of Solar Panels.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Paper Towels
• Non-abrasive cleaner
• Wrench
• Screwdrivers

1. The following inspections and maintenance tasks are recommended at least once per year for best charge controller performance.
   1. Confirm that the correct battery type has been selected.
   2. Confirm that the current levels of the PV (Photovoltaic) array and load do not exceed the ratings.
   3. Tighten all terminals, inspect for loose, broken, or burnt wire connections. Be certain no loose strands of wire are touching other terminals.
   4. Check that the charge controller is securely mounted in a clean environment. Inspect for dirt, insects, and corrosion.
   5. Check that the air flow around the charge controller is not blocked.
   6. Protect from direct sun and rain. Confirm that water is not collecting under the cover.
   7. Check that the charge controller functions and LED indicators are correct for the system conditions at that time.
2. To clean the panels use non-abrasive cleanser and paper towels. The surrounding environment and the amount of road dust encountered determines how frequently the panels should be cleaned. One to two times a month is preferred.
3. A critical part of maintaining the solar powered battery charging system is keeping the panel clean.
   The amount of power that a panel will produce is directly related to the intensity of sunlight that reaches the internal crystals. A dirty panel will allow less light to reach the crystals resulting in reduced power output. A layer of dust or road grime can reduce power output by 15 to 25%. Combining dust with leaves and debris that cover two or three of the individual cells can reduce output power by 50 to 75%.
   Use of the basic maintenance tips, regular inspections and regular cleaning will assure maximum performance from the solar charging system.

Tips & Warnings

• The panels should be cleaned if a film or a layer of dust is on the windshield.
• On a bright sunny day, charging current of 2 or 3 amps can be obtained during the peak charge cycle.
• High winds blow dust and debris causing dirt build up on the panel. Frequently inspect the panel and clean as necessary.
• To avoid arcing at battery connections when replacing batteries or performing battery cable maintenance, be sure to remove the fuse (located in the curbside electrical compartment) for the solar panel charge controller, or cover the solar panel, for example with a blanket, to stop the production of electricity at the source.