Many ask,“Does cleaning solar panels make a difference?” Yes, as solar energy providers, we’ve noticed significant improvements after cleaning solar panels. But what’s the best way to do it? Safety is a major factor. While it might seem straightforward, cleaning your panels yourself could pose risks, such as damaging the PV modules or experiencing a fall, which might lead to injuries. We highly recommend getting someone that is well trained to work at heights. Here, we answer common questions about solar panel cleaning to help you make sure your panels are always working at maximum. Let’s get started!
Is Cleaning Solar Panels Worth It?
The short answer is yes, and here’s why. Dust accumulation, or soiling, can drastically reduce solar panel performance. South Africa has high levels of dust in certain regions. Research on the impact of cleaning photovoltaic systems shows that solar panels can lose up to 17.7% of their power output without regular cleaning. This is a significant barrier to maximising the performance of solar systems, especially if you completely rely on solar power to meet energy demands for your business or home.
Our South African climate adds to this challenge. Semi-arid regions in the country often experience minimal rainfall, which means depending on natural cleaning methods like rain isn’t enough. Even advanced anti-soiling coatings, tested by researchers, haven’t proven effective in these dry environments. So regular manual or machine-assisted cleaning is an effective way to maintain the performance of solar panels even in dusty conditions.
From a cost perspective, cleaning may seem like an added expense, but the benefits quickly outweigh the costs. Regular and efficient cleaning strategies can boost energy output without breaking the bank. Donah Sheila Simiyu’s research found that cleaning certain sections of PV arrays seven times a year boosted energy production, keeping operational costs in check while enjoying maximum output. This approach is ideal for large-scale solar setups that want to balance performance with budget considerations.
The frequency of cleaning photovoltaic panels in South Africa doesn’t have to be excessive. In fact, cleaning solar panels once a month or even during specific dusty, windy seasons like August can improve your solar panels’ productivity. Dust buildup happens eventually, and a targeted cleaning schedule prevents energy losses while keeping costs manageable. This is true for SA where heavy dust storms or prolonged dry periods affect solar installations. If you want to learn more about solar energy in general, discover our comprehensive guide for solar.
What is the Best Thing to Clean Solar Panels With?
When it comes to cleaning solar panels, a soft rag or biodegradable soap is your best bet. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch or damage the surface of the panels. If you regularly clean your panels, a gentle spray from a garden hose may be enough to wash away dirt and debris. For more stubborn grime, a little soap and water, along with a soft cloth, will get the job done without causing any harm.
How Do I Clean My Solar Panels in South Africa?
Cleaning solar panels in South Africa follows the same principles as anywhere else: protect the glass to prevent scratches, which can reduce energy production. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely clean your solar panels:
- Turn off your system: Before cleaning, always shut down your solar panel system for safety and to avoid damaging any equipment.
- Remove loose dirt: Use a soft brush to sweep away dust, leaves, and other debris from the surface of your panels.
- Rinse with water: Use a standard garden hose to rinse off your panels. Avoid high-pressure washing, as it can crack the panels or cause other damage.
- Check efficiency: After cleaning, monitor your system’s output to see how much cleaning has improved performance.
This manual method is the best way to clean solar panels, when accumulated by dust and other conditions found in parts of South Africa.
How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?
As solar experts we recommend giving your panels a thorough cleaning at least once a year, because SA doesn’t receive much rain. But this may vary depending on where you live. In fact, annual cleaning has been shown to boost energy output by up to 12% compared to panels only cleaned by natural rainfall. If you can manage to clean them twice a year, even better!
The best time for cleaning solar panels on roofs is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun isn’t directly on them. This prevents the panels from heating up too much, making the cleaning process safer and more effective. Be cautious if you have rooftop panels—use an extendable brush for hard-to-reach areas to avoid slipping or falling. Or leave it to the professionals!
Conclusion: Alumo For Solar Panel Cleaning
For hassle-free solar panel cleaning and to ensure your system is working at its best, trust Alumo’s professional cleaning and inspection services. Our team is experienced in cleaning photovoltaic panels safely and effectively. We offer complete solar panel cleaning services from just R1 725. Get a quote today and see how we can help you maintain your solar system’s efficiency!