4 tips for cleaning solar panels

Environmental Health News published a report by Generation180, – in collaboration with Solar Foundation and Solar Energy Industries Association – about the number of K-12 schools in the U.S using solar power. More than 5.3 million children and teens attend a school equipped with solar panels: the report found an 81% increase in K-12 US schools using solar energy over the last 5 years.  

This report also found two important things: first, the quantity of solar panels installed at schools is increasing in the country. Secondly, solar energy at schools does not only offer clean power, but also cost savings and educational opportunities. For example, in New York City – which has more than 250 solar installations completed or underway in its school system – more than 2,500 students have participated in a program, which trains teachers and students on solar energy, energy efficiency and energy storage. Students can intern with companies producing solar energy and learn how to install solar panels at their schools. 

But as a well-oiled car runs better, as well solar panels do their job more efficiently when they’re clean and well-maintained. 

Energy Matters (an important Australian company specialised in solar panel installation) and Solaranlage Ratgeber (a German online magazine about solar energy) provided a few useful tips about cleaning solar panels.  

Dust regularly causes problems, but the real “enemies” are bird droppings: since they’re very corrosive, in fact, they can damage the panels more than dust. Therefore, it’s highly suggested to clean them regularly in order to maintain their efficiency: more light gets through properly cleaned solar panels, more energy is produced. 

The best way to clean solar panels is to rely on professionals. First, because cleaning solar power systems installed across rooftops can be a hard and dangerous task to do by yourself. Besides, experts can ensure your panels better cleaning results. 

If the owner can carry out the cleaning, Energy Matters suggests doing it safely, wearing a hard helmet and a safety harness. The cleaning operations require demineralised water, a non-abrasive sponge and a mild cleaner, specially designed for cleaning solar panels. 

It’s recommended to proceed with cleaning at least twice a year: at the beginning and the end of the season, i.e., before and after the period of maximum use of the panels. It’s preferable to carry out the cleaning during periods of low rainfall, as the solar panel tends to self-clean during these meteorological events. Moreover, it’s recommended to proceed in the early morning hours and on days that are not too hot. 

Errecom cleaners’ range – formulated in our laboratories – includes Apollo, a cleaner for solar panels. It consists of a mild alkaline-based treatment that removes dirt from the panels, returning optimal performance. Apollo also forms a protective film on the panel, which – once rinsed – slows down the development of new dirt and protects against corrosion.