If you’re wondering how to clean and repair solar panels at home, there are two main options: Hire someone to do it yourself. If you can do it yourself, avoid using high pressure water and keep trees away from the panels. Also clean the panels before the rainy season.
Do it yourself
The most effective way to clean solar panels is to use a hose and a bucket of soapy water. You can even use a soft sponge to wash certain stains. Rinse well and then let dry in the sun. To avoid damaging the panels, read the warranty terms before cleaning them.
Solar panels typically need cleaning two to four times a year. Fall and spring are the best times to clean and care for them. In winter, birds and other debris can stick to the panels and cause damage. It is also recommended to check for signs of ash or soot build-up. They are different from dust and must be removed by a professional.
It’s also a good idea to check the solar panels. If they are too dirty, you will not be able to generate electricity. If your batteries need more than just cleaning, call a professional. It is also important not to touch the batteries while they are running. If you’re not comfortable jumping on a roof, a good alternative is to use baking soda to clean up spills.
Hire a professional
You can clean your solar panels regularly to keep them in good condition and improve their appearance. But if you don’t have the time or inclination to clean them yourself, hire a professional to clean and repair your panels for best results and to minimize damage to your panels. Also, proper cleaning of the panels is essential to maintain the warranty. In addition, a professional can more easily detect any problems, preventing them from needing expensive repairs.
If you want to clean the solar panels yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. If you are unsure of the methods and chemicals to use, you can also hire a professional solar panel cleaning company to do the work for you. Just make sure you choose a company that is licensed and insured and ask for references before you hire them.
Avoid high water pressure
Solar panels are best cleaned with clean water, not high pressure water. Do not use an extension cord or garden hose as they can damage the seals and cause scratches. You can also use a soft brush to remove loose materials. If you are cleaning solar panels at home, do not step on them as they are hot and could damage them.
Pressure washers are great for cleaning the outside of your home, but they should never be used on solar panels. High water pressure can damage equipment and cause elements to lose efficiency. High pressure water can also cause damage by causing corrosion, which can cause the panel to fail.
Avoid trees around your solar panels
If you have solar panels on your roof, it is important that they are free of debris and dirt. Dust can clog solar panels and interfere with power generation. The same goes for pollen, especially during the flowering period. Trees and new construction can also block sunlight. Fortunately, most states have laws that protect solar systems. Using filtered water to clean your solar panels will reduce the risk of damage to your system.
If trees cast a shadow on your solar panels, you should trim them accordingly. If you are unable to prune the trees, you may need to contact the owner of the tree and have them prune it. If you live in an area with lots of trees, you can also ask your neighbors to cut down their trees so that sunlight reaches your solar panels.
Avoid polluted places
If possible, try to avoid contaminated areas when cleaning and repairing solar panels at home. Polluted air can clog the panels and reduce the amount of sunlight reaching them. Another factor that can reduce sunlight is seasonal pollen and bird droppings. Fortunately, you don’t have to live in a high-pollution area to avoid these problems.
To clean solar panels at home, you can use a variety of tools, some of which are designed to clean solar panels. First, you’ll need a sturdy ladder and harness system. For above ground panels, you may need a ladder to reach the far sides of the panels. You’ll also need a scraper, a manual scraper that removes excess water without damaging the surface of the panels.