How to maintain and keep photovoltaic panels for maximum performance?

Although photovoltaic panels are easy to install, efficient and easy to maintain, energy production can decrease over time if they do not remain correctly. In fact, nature could help you in this sense, but if dust, dirt, birds, leaves or other debris can accumulate on photovoltaic panels, they can reduce their performance.

In a study conducted in 2018, experts established that the accumulation of dust and debris on photovoltaic panels contributes to an energy energy loss 3-4% per year. [1]

Fortunately, the cleaning of the solar panels is a simple procedure, which you can do without the help of a specialist. In this article, find out why it is essential to keep solar panels in optimal conditions, as you can clean the panels step by step and other suggestions that can help you maintain the photovoltaic system for a long time.

Maintenance of photovoltaic panels: why is it important?

From the economies you can do to the benefits for the environment, there are several reasons to keep your photovoltaic panels throughout the year.

Improved energy production

Numerous studies have shown that dirt and residues can reduce the efficiency of the panels From 5% to 25%. When the powder, the leaves or other debris accumulate on the surface of the panels, block sunlight, making them less efficient. Therefore, regular and adequate cleaning of solar panels can significantly improve energy production. [2]

Your security and your family

Cleaning solar panels gives you the opportunity to inspect them to detect any problems. By evaluating photovoltaic panels, you can make sure everything works correctly and, if you have encountered problems, you can remedy before they become important concerns.

How often should you clean the photovoltaic panels?

Position of photovoltaic panels It is a decisive factor in determining the cleaning frequency. For example, if the panels are positioned near the trees, it is very likely to need more common cleaning. This is due to the fact that the leaves and other residues can fall on the panels, thus blocking sunlight and reducing their efficiency.

Weather conditions They are another factor that influences the frequency of cleaning. If you live in an area with frequent powder storms or high levels of pollution, more regular cleaning may be required. Discover C.Um to maximize the efficiency of photovoltaic panels in cold seasons!

pollution It is a significant factor that can affect the performance of solar panels. According to a recent study, air pollution can lead to a reduction in the efficiency of the sun panel with a maximum 25%. [3]

A general rule is to clean the panels One or twice a year to maintain optimal efficiency. It is important to mention that, in areas with regular rainfall, rain can help clean the panels, thus reducing the need for manual cleaning.

How to correctly clean photovoltaic panels for maximum performance?

There are several ways to clean photovoltaic panels. The best choice for this task depends on the type and quantity of impurities and debris that have accumulated from your panels:

• Water rinse: In general, to remove most of the powder and debris, simply use a water tube or a bucket full of clean and cold water;
• Soft brushes or rugs: Soft brushes and microfiber rugs are an excellent way to clean the water and remove excess dirt;
• Water with delicate soap: A delicate soap can act to remove difficult spots and traces. Only make sure to rinse the panels with water later;
• Photovoltaic panels detergent: A specific cleaning solution for photovoltaic panels can help you eliminate almost all dirt or residue;
• pressure washing: The pressure recycling devices can eliminate stubborn dirt when other methods are not effective. Avoid high pressure washing devices because they can cause damage to solar panels.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have all the tools and materials necessary at hand

To clean the photovoltaic panels, you will need a brush with soft bristles, a water tube and a cleaning solution suitable for solar panels. Also, if the panels are mounted on the roof, you will have to have a staircase. Do not forget the safety equipment, such as seat belts and headphones, to avoid potential accidents.

2. Arrest the system of photovoltaic panels
   For your safety and system protection, stop the supply of solar panels before starting the job. If you need electricity, you can use the one stored in the batteries for photovoltaic panels.

   3. Wet panels with water
   With the help of the garden tube and a spray nozzle, rinse the photovoltaic panels and the roof that surrounds them to remove debris or dirt.

   4. Apply the cleaning solution
   Apply a thin layer of cleaning solution on a small section of a photovoltaic panel. Allow the solution to pierce dirt for several minutes, but it doesn't give it enough time to dry out.

   5. Delete the solution
   With a brush or a soft sponge, dry the section of the solar panel on which you have applied the cleaning solution. If you don't reach, you can wrap a cloth on the head of a mature. Do not bend and always sit on the scale with the entire sole, not on the tip of the fingers!

   6. Repeat in small segments
   Follow the steps above to apply the cleaning solution, clean it on small segments until you cleaned all photovoltaic panels.

   7. Rinse the panels
   Using the tube and spray nozzle, rinse the panels again. Then use a scraper to dry the panels before starting again.

Periodic cleaning of photovoltaic panels is essential to maintain optimal performance of solar systems and the use of efficient and quality solar inverters contributes to the maximization of the energy efficiency of the entire system.

What do you have to do and what to do to clean the solar panels?

If performed correctly, the cleaning of solar panels is a simple and efficient method with which it is possible to improve energy production, save more money and reduce carbon footprint. However, you have to know that there are some things that it is advisable to do and some you need to avoid.

What do you have to do

1. Check the guarantee of the solar system and panels to see if there are rules or cleaning requirements.
2. Consult the manufacturer or installation program to receive advice for the types of panels.
3. Clean your photovoltaic panels carefully and regularly.
4. Use clean and cold water, delicate cleaning solutions, such as soap water or special solar panels.
5. Limited to soft and non -abrasive cleaning tools, such as microfiber rugs, soft brushes or simply water.
6. Rinse the solar panels well after cleaning.
7. Clean carefully and respect the safety measures when you perform cleaning. If the panels are too high to reach them safely, it is better to call a professional.

What you don't have to do

1. Avoid the use of abrasive cleaning tools for the maintenance of solar panels. These tools can damage the protective layer of the panels, which can negatively influence their performance.
2. Hot or dirty water can damage the panels and reduce their efficiency.
3. Avoid using hard chemical detergents.
4. Avoid cleaning photovoltaic panels on hot days. You can cause damage to the panels and reduce their efficiency. The best time to clean the solar panels is early morning or late in the evening.

In the same order of ideas, read this article with 7 myths dismantled on solar panels and their efficiency!

Frequent questions

Can solar solar panels cause fire?

Even if this scenario is quite rare, there is a risk. Most happen due to poor quality installations. Therefore, it uses some reliable specialists for the installation of panels, which can guarantee a correct and safe configuration of the sun system.

How often should solar panels be cleaned?

This frequency may vary according to several factors, such as the level of pollution, the proximity of the trees and the extreme weather conditions. Although there is no valid general rule, experts recommend control and cleaning panels at least once a year.

Can rain clean photovoltaic panels?

The rain can clean the solar panels to a certain extent, but this method also has its limits. The rain can leave dirt and debris behind it, reducing the efficiency of the system. In addition, prolonged exposure to rainfall can cause damage to the system.

Finally, we must underline that each photovoltaic system is unique and can require specific maintenance. Therefore, it is always advisable to request a professional's advice before making any decision relating to the maintenance of solar panels.

source

[1] Ilse, Klemens, et al. «Tecno-economic evaluation of dirt losses and mitigation strategies for the generation of solar energy.» Joule, vol. 3, n. 10, 1 October 2019, pages 2303–2321, www.cell.com/jouule/fulltext. Access to January 31, 2025.
[2] Renewable Energy for Life Pty Ltd. «Dirt and dust on solar panels hinder their efficiency by blocking sunlight, making it difficult to transform the energy of the sun into electricity. Therefore, it is essential to use effective measures to maintain optimal performance and increase energy production.» LinkedIn.com, 25 October 2023, www.linkedin.com/pulse/impact-debris-lar-panels-maintaining-clean-Energy-production-johc. Access to January 31, 2025.
[3] «Great reductions in the production of solar energy due to dust and pendant air pollution.» ACS Publications, 2017, PUBS.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.estlett.7b00197. Access to January 31, 2025.