Fast read
The essential guide to cleaning solar panels in Australia
As solar power becomes more popular in Australia, people are talking more about how to keep solar panels clean. Since we get a lot of sunlight here, it’s crucial to make sure the panels work well and keeping them clean is a significant aspect of that.
But not everyone agrees on the best way to do it as some folks think that the rain we get does a good job of cleaning the panels naturally. They say that with the rain and sunshine we get, the panels stay remarkably clean on their own, which means we don’t have to clean them by hand frequently, which saves time and effort.
On the other hand, there are people who say it’s better to clean the panels regularly by hand. They think that even though we get rain, it’s still important to clean off any dirt, bird droppings, or pollen that can build up. They say that keeping the panels clean this way makes them work better and last long term.
The importance of cleaning solar panels
Solar panels are designed to convert sunlight into electricity. For them to achieve peak performance, it’s essential that they remain free from obstructions like leaves, bird droppings, branches, or accumulated dirt. Even a thin layer of dust can cause a drop in your solar panel’s power output, and why this might be only a few per cent – it all adds.
While rain can wash away some of these impurities, a little rain is rarely enough. This means manual cleaning can enhance electricity production.
The person cleaning the solar panels can also see if there is an issue. Such as loose clamps or any solar panel burn marks, the cleaning process also doubles up as a quick general maintenance check-up.
For a more detailed check up we recommend a professional regular scheduled check up.
DIY vs Professional Cleaners
A significant portion of Australians choose the DIY cleaning route, primarily to save on costs. But this comes with its challenges.
Firstly, climbing onto rooftops, especially if they’re steep, poses a risk. A single misstep could lead to injuries. The high costs of the hospital bill, or permanent damage to one’s health pale in comparison to the small savings for a clean solar panel.
Secondly, without a professional’s trained eye, you could overlook potential solar panel system issues that a seasoned cleaner might spot during a routine cleaning session. Professionals don’t just clean; they perform some system checks, ensuring all components are in good condition.
Notably, many established solar installation companies in Australia now bundle cleaning services. It’s worth checking out their websites or directly reaching out to explore these options. Some even roll out attractive after-sales service plans, inclusive of cleaning services, offering homeowners peace of mind regarding the system’s longevity and efficiency.
If your roof is single-storey and flat, and you are committed to DIY cleaning, consider these steps:
- Use clean water if possible, not water with impurities from a rainwater tank for example. This prevents residue build-up which can be caused by deposits in rain water.
- Clean your solar panels with gentle tools, for example, use a soft sponge. High-pressure hoses or abrasive materials like steel wool can damage the solar panels, and should always be avoided.
- Say no to chemicals – Stick to mild detergents or glass cleaners and avoid strong chemicals or soapy soaps.
- Safety is your number one priority. If you’re going up, wear non-slip shoes, use a sturdy ladder, and always have someone on standby. Therefore do not do this job if you are the only one at home and make sure any ladder is properly tied up – BEFORE you use it.
Our recommendation for optimal solar panel maintenance? Regularly wash the solar panels yourself, and every 12 months, and book a professional cleaning session that also includes a system check-up every 2 years.
Never use a pressure washer on your solar panels, even if they are extremely dirty. The strong water jet has the potential to open seals, cause microcracks in cells, and allow water ingress over time into the panel.
When to choose professional solar panel cleaning?
In certain situations, you must seek professional cleaning rather than just considering it as a recommendation. For instance:
- Solar panels located on steep or complex rooftops;
- Solar panels that haven’t been maintained for an extended period and/or have lichen growth;
- Homes in regions with extremely dusty conditions and which are not easy to get access to the roof.
Professionals come equipped with the right tools and possess the expertise to restore your solar panels to prime efficiency. They also conduct thorough system checks, ensuring everything is functioning perfectly.
In some regions, solar installation companies offer cleaning and regular maintenance services and in other population-heavy regions, specialist solar services have sprung up.
Wrapping up
Keeping your solar panels clean is super important for making sure they work well and last a long time. Luckily, following these easy steps, you can clean them yourself or get a professional to help if you need it. Doing this regularly helps catch any problems early and ensures you get the most out of the renewable energy your panels produce.
Regularly cleaning your solar panels is crucial because it helps them work better and last longer. With these simple steps, you can clean them yourself or ask a professional for help. By doing this often, you can find any issues early and make sure your solar panels make as much renewable energy as possible.
