Do You Need to Clean Solar Panels?

Solar panels have become a significant need of every household because of their great functionalities and features. However, only a few households realize that they don't only need solar panels; they really need clean solar panels. 

But why? Is there a difference between the result of a dirty solar panel and a clean solar panel? To find the answer to all such questions, let's dig deep into an unbiased guide discussing the benefits and importance of why you need to clean solar panels. 

Why do you need to clean solar panels?

Following are some of the significant reasons for cleaning the solar panels once a week or at least twice a month. 

1. Dust and dirt

Dust and debris present in the air settle on the solar panel as time passes. Not cleaning them for days leads to low solar panel efficiency, as a thick layer of dirt and dust must be created on it. This is because they will hinder sunlight's ability to reach the panels, affecting their ability to generate electricity. 

2. Bird dropping

The birds usually rest on solar panels. The dropping of these birds can be a reason for the low efficiency of the solar panels. It could also be a reason for the blockage of the sun's rays on the panels. Thus affecting its productivity. However, with regular cleaning, you won't face this problem, enabling the panels to soak up as much sunlight as possible. 

3. Season debris

Different debris occurs during different seasons.  For example, snow in the winter can create a thick layer on the surface of the solar panels. Similarly, during the fall season, the falling leaves often settle on the panels. 

Also, there are so many dust mites during the spring. Therefore, no season doesn't bring any debris. However, cleaning the panels daily enables the proper working of the solar panels despite any of these seasons.

You might have to adopt different cleaning techniques, like using soap water in the monsoon season to remove wet dirt and wiping off the screen with a dry cloth in the summer. Similarly, you can consider specialized machines to remove snow in winter. 

4. Pollen removal

A stocky coat is a sticky substance created by pollen and cap in places with an increased number of pollen and trees. 

As it is not easily washed up by rain, it can cause significant issues. That is why cleaning is important to remove that sticky layer so that the panels can effectively perform their duties. 

5. Pollution reduction

Solar panels near industrial areas face several problems related to pollution. Pollution accumulates in the panels, creating a blockage between sunlight and the panels.

Nevertheless, cleaning your panels daily helps them effectively resist the hurdles and ensures that they don't lose their efficiency. 

Top 5 benefits of cleaned solar panels

Now that we know the importance of clean solar panels, here are some additional perks you can enjoy by investing a little bit of time and effort in cleaning them. 

1. More energy

Dirt-free solar panels can absorb more sunlight as they do not have any layer stopping the sunshine from reaching photovoltaic cells. With a little bit of cleaning, your solar panels can become more powerful and energy efficient. This ultimately also results in less dependency on the grid system, leading to a significant decline in the overall monthly bills. 

2. Longer durability

Regular cleaning of the solar panel not only cleans dirt but also removes harmful bacteria like pollen and bird droppings, which can deteriorate productivity. 

It also minimizes the risk of long-term damage and dysfunctionality that can otherwise cause the permanent failure of your solar panel. 

3. Better appearance

Let's say you went to your friend's house and saw those dirty panels filled with dirt and bird droppings. Would you ever consider going to the same house again? Of Course not. 

Let's reverse the case. You went to your friend's house with cleaned and shiny solar panels. What would you think about him now? Positive words, right? 

This is what a clean and dirty look of the panel can cause to your reputation. Hence, if you want good remarks from the home visitors, it is essential to clean solar panels along with the other house areas before the visitor arrives. 

4. Higher return on investment

Maintaining clean solar panels helps to maximize their productivity. This can result in higher energy generation, which can bring many benefits, such as tax incentives and rebates from the government. 

At the same time, the increased production can make you less dependent on the grid, especially during peak hours when electricity charges are higher than usual. 

5. Warranty compliance

Most solar panels come with a warranty. However, one condition you must fulfil to remain warranty compliant is keeping them in good condition. If you do so, you can avail yourself of better service from the manufacturer. 

How can maximum productivity from solar panels be ensured?

While cleaning your solar panels is an integral part of the process, more is needed. You must take care of some very important things along with the cleaning process. 

Firstly, make sure to place your solar panel where sunlight falls directly on it. This will help the panels generate energy for the longest possible time. 

Secondly, ensure that you take care of  all the other system components, including the inverter and battery to better optimize the solar panel performance. 

It would help to go with a trusted and reliable firm like Innotinum. With years of experience, it extends its offers to multiple storage batteries, such as IES—H0, IES—H1, and IES—L0. 

You can also check out their inverter range, which includes IPS—H0 (EU), IPS—L0 (EU), and IPS—L0 (US). 

Conclusion

The bottom line is that whether you need to clean your solar panels is one of the essential and frequently asked questions by households. 

To give a detailed answer, we have formed this guide, which not only discusses the importance of cleaned panels but also their benefits. So, make sure to read the whole article from start to finish to reap maximum benefits.