Nowadays, residential and commercial building owners are searching for effective ways to reduce costs in different areas as much as possible. Apart from using energy-efficient roofing materials or installing skylights, they usually install solar panels on roofs. These practical features can greatly lower energy bills and give you access to renewable energy.
However, they will only work optimally when cleaned and maintained regularly. If you’ve recently installed them, you must learn how to clean solar panels on your roof through a series of steps. Many experts in Portland, Oregon, also use these steps in their day-to-day jobs, leaving you with clean and functional panels.
Have you ever wondered how solar panels work? They do more than capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. It goes through a series of complex steps, which are explained in detail below:
Solar panels are composed of many solar cells, typically made from silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, the silicon absorbs energy from the light particles (photons). This energy knocks electrons loose from their atoms, allowing them to flow freely.
The loose electrons are captured by an electric field within the solar cell, creating a flow of electric current. Since the electrons flow in a single direction, this current is called Direct Current (DC).
The electricity generated by the solar panels is in DC form, but most household appliances and the electrical grid require Alternating Current (AC). An inverter converts the DC electricity into AC electricity, ensuring compatibility with home devices and grid systems.
The converted AC electricity then flows to the property’s electrical panel (breaker box), where it is distributed to power various appliances and systems in the home.
Excess energy production can be sent back to the electrical grid (or stored in a battery, if available). With net metering policies, the Portland homeowner may receive credits for this surplus power, which can offset future electricity use.
Many solar panel systems come with a monitoring system that allows homeowners to track their solar panels’ performance and energy output. This data can often be accessed via online platforms or apps.
Cleaning roof solar panels is vital for several reasons, as unclean ones can impact the performance and longevity of the solar energy system. You can find various reasons why you should clean your panels:
Learning how to clean solar panels on a roof is important so that they capture light and are converted into electricity. Remember the steps mentioned to clean your solar panels while maintaining safety effectively.
The cleaning process involves:
Before you clean your solar panels, prioritize safety. Use the proper safety equipment, such as a sturdy ladder, safety harness, and non-slippery shoes. It’s also critical to turn the system off before the solar cleaning. You can turn it off using the main switch or inverter. Working with electricity can be dangerous, so taking these precautions is necessary.
Examine your solar panels from the ground before proceeding. Determine the extent of dust, dirt, or debris accumulation and note visible damage that needs repair. Planning when and how to clean is also important. It’s best to clean solar panels on a cloudy day, early in the morning or evening when they are cooler, as water can evaporate quickly on hot panels and leave streaks behind.
Gather the supplies before climbing onto the roof. You’ll need a soft brush or sponge, a squeegee with a plastic blade, a bucket of clean water, and a mild, non-abrasive soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can cause extensive damage to the panels. An extendable pole can also be helpful for accessing hard-to-reach areas.
Begin by gently rinsing the solar panels with clean water. This removes loose dirt and dust without scrubbing, which could potentially scratch the surface. Using a garden hose with a low-pressure spray nozzle is usually enough.
After rinsing, use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to delicately scrub the panels with soapy water to form a solar panel cleaner and remove stubborn dirt or bird droppings. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could scratch the glass surface. Work in a methodical pattern across each panel, making sure to reach all sections.
After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the panels again with clean, warm water to wash away soap residue. Leftover soap can form films over the surface, reducing solar panel efficiency. Use the squeegee to remove excess water, preventing water spots or streaks from forming as the panels dry. If accessible, wipe down with a lint-free soft cloth for a polished finish.
Once the panels are dry, take a few moments to inspect them again for any signs of damage or deterioration, which should be fixed by solar panel contractors. Once you’ve finished the cleaning and inspection, you can safely turn the solar power system back on and monitor its performance for improvements. Regular maintenance and monitoring keep the system operational at maximum efficiency.
You don’t necessarily have to conduct solar panel cleaning every week or month. There are proper instances where cleaning solar panels can bring back or further maximize their efficiency and lifespan. Some of the right moments to clean solar panels are as follows:
Cleaning solar panels during the early morning or late afternoon helps avoid the heat of the midday sun. Cooler panels reduce the risk of thermal shock and water evaporation, preventing streaks and spots. The low sunlight also allows you to see dirt and grime more clearly.
This time of day is ideal for cleaning as the panels are cooler, providing a more comfortable working environment and reducing the quick evaporation of cleaning water. Overcast conditions also make it easier to spot dirt and to leave a streak-free finish.
Cleaning panels at the start of new seasons, specifically after fall and winter, is beneficial. Autumn leaves, winter grime, or spring pollen can accumulate on panels. A seasonal clean removes these residues, preparing your panels for peak summer sunshine.
In areas prone to dust storms or prolonged dry spells, panels can gather a thick layer of dust, significantly reducing their performance. Once the dry period ends, a thorough cleaning can restore its efficiency as accumulated dirt will be washed away.
Leaves, branches, or other debris may land on panels after severe storms and block sunlight. Cleaning after these events can keep the panels working even during cloudy weather, which blocks most of the sunlight.
Some homeowners prefer scheduled solar panel cleaning services in Portland, such as biannually or quarterly. Keeping the panels clean can prevent grime or debris buildup, maintaining the panels’ efficiency over time.
When cleaning solar panels, you must thoroughly inspect them for visible damage that could impair their functionality. In most cases, failing to spot damage earlier can lead to costly repairs or replacements. If you don’t want to waste money in the long run, here are several signs of panel damage to look for:
You must follow certain cleaning practices to avoid damaging or reducing their efficiency. Do not use these bad or ineffective cleaning methods to keep your solar panels free of problems:
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap to clean your solar panels. It is a mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent. Mild soaps like Dawn effectively remove grime, dirt, and oily residues without harming the delicate surface and coatings of solar panels. When using Dawn dish soap, it’s important to mix it with water to create a gentle cleaning solution.
Armadas Exterior LLC can help install solar panels on your property. We specialize in residential solar panel installations, and thanks to our GAC certification, you should expect high standards from our work. We are also fully licensed, insured, and certified, so expect complete compliance with regulations related to installing solar panels.
Contact us right away to discuss the installation project for your new solar panels.
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