Solar power has started to hit its stride in the U.S. There are now 3 million-plus solar installations spread across the country, many of them residential systems. With federal solar incentives for homeowners now locked in place for another decade, that number will likely keep rising over time.
Of course, once you get those solar panels or if you buy a house with them already installed, there is a problem for which you will need a good answer: How to clean your solar panels.
After all, solar panels will lose efficiency if you damage them. If you’re concerned about doing the job right, keep reading for some solar panel cleaning tips.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
The best place you can start for information about solar panel cleaning for your system is the manufacturer’s recommendations. They’ll typically provide you with specific information about the kinds of tools you should use and what, if any, cleaning products are appropriate.
It’s important to note that not all panels get the same recommendations, so don’t assume information from a different system will apply to your current system.
Tools for Cleaning Solar Panels
There is good news on the tool’s front. You won’t need many. In fact, you can generally get by with the following:
- Soft brush
- Telescoping pole
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Garden hose
Assuming you don’t run into some kind of strange complications, those should let you get clean solar panels.
Cleaning
You can use the soft brush to gently knock loose any bird dropping, accumulated dirt, or debris. At this point, you can often finish the job with a gentle spray from your garden hose.
If not, you’ll want to use the brush to spread soapy water from the bucket over the panels using gentle strokes. Again, use the garden hose to rinse the panels.
Use a Pro
Another option is for you to use a professional solar panel cleaning service. Many solar installation services also provide cleaning services. So, start with a call to your solar installer and ask them about it. You may find a quick fix to your problem.
This is often the best option if you own a two-story home. Getting up on the roof comes with the risk of falling, and professional service can likely do the job more safely than you.
Other Solar Panels
Of course, residential solar panels aren’t the only kind of solar panels. Many people install them on RV van conversions. Once you do the solar sizing for your needs and install them, the same cleaning methods should work well.
How to Clean Your Solar Panels? Gently
Keeping things gentle is the name of the game when it comes to how to clean your solar panels. Use a soft brush to remove debris and bird dropping. Use a very light spray to rinse the panels.
If you want must use soapy water, and apply it with gentle motions.
Looking for more tips for keeping your solar panels in optimal working condition? Check out our Home Improvement section for more posts.
