How to Clean Solar Modules
Without regular cleaning, solar panels can lose 5 to 15 percent efficiency. The lost efficiency increases the time it takes the solar system to pay for itself by three to five years. Self-cleaning systems can help, but may leave water deposits that require manual cleaning to remove. Since water deposits may not come off, manual cleaning provides the most reliable choice for solar panel maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Bucket of water
- Lint-free towel or sponge
- Non-scratch drying cloth
- Streak-free cleaner
Instructions
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Check each solar panel for cracks and loose wires. Do not clean a damaged panel --- call a technician to service the panel. Solar panels have a glass or plastic covering that protects the interior wiring. Cleaning a cracked panel or one with exposed wiring can cause permanent damage to the interior wiring.
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Mix the cleaner and water. Use the lint-free cloth or sponge, dampened with the diluted cleaning mixture to wash the outside of each solar panel. Clean in the same direction using consistent upward or downward strokes.
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Dry each panel with the drying cloth using strokes, moving in the same direction each time. Buff out any streaks. Brush out the corners where debris may become trapped.
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Tips & Warnings
Read the manufacturer's cleaning instructions before beginning for recommendations specific to your brand.
References
- Photo Credit Solar energy image by lefebvre_jonathan from Fotolia.com
