Precautions and Methods for Cleaning and Maintaining Solar Panels

Precautions and Methods for Cleaning and Maintaining Solar Panels

Regular cleaning of solar panels is the simplest and most economical way to maintain the efficient operation of photovoltaic systems (such as photovoltaic water pumps and home power generation systems). Dust, bird droppings, leaves, and other debris can significantly block sunlight and reduce power generation. Correct cleaning methods can achieve twice the result with half the effort, while incorrect operation may damage the equipment.

I. Key Precautions Before Cleaning

Safety First:

Power Off Operation: Before cleaning, be sure to shut down the system and disconnect the controller from the photovoltaic panels, or use the circuit breaker on the equipment itself. It is best to clean in the early morning, late afternoon, or on a cloudy day when the panel surface temperature is not high.

Prevent Slips and Falls: When cleaning the roof, ensure you have a stable footing and fasten your safety belt, and use a sturdy ladder.

Choose the Right Time: Avoid cleaning during midday when temperatures are high and sunlight is direct. Sudden temperature changes may cause the glass on the panels to crack, and water stains may evaporate too quickly, leaving marks. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time.

II. Recommended Cleaning Tools and Methods

Use gentle physical methods to avoid damaging the panel surface.

Recommended Tools:

Soft brush or mop: such as a sponge mop or soft-bristled brush.

Water: Ordinary tap water is sufficient. If limescale is severe, a small amount of neutral soap solution can be used.

Soft cloth or rubber squeegee: used for wiping and removing moisture.

Standard Cleaning Procedure:

Initial Dusting: Gently sweep away loose dust and leaves with a soft brush or feather duster.

Rinse or Wipe: Rinse the surface with water from top to bottom. For stubborn stains (such as bird droppings or tree sap), gently wipe with a damp soft cloth or sponge, adding a small amount of neutral detergent if necessary.

Squeeze Dry: Gently scrape away water from the surface in the same direction with a rubber squeegee to reduce water residue.

Air Dry: Finally, allow the surface to air dry naturally.

III. Prohibited Operations and Behaviors

The following actions may permanently damage solar panels or affect their performance:

**Prohibited Use:** High-pressure water guns, sharp metal tools, abrasive steel wool, corrosive chemicals (such as strong acids and alkalis), and abrasive materials. These will scratch or corrode the glass and coating, damaging the anti-reflective film.

**Avoid Stepping on:** Do not step directly on the photovoltaic panels, as this may cause microcracks in the internal cells.

**Avoid Using Cold Water to Heat the Panels:** Avoid rinsing the panels directly with large amounts of cold water when the surface is very hot.

IV. Cleaning Frequency Recommendations

There is no fixed standard; it depends on the local environment.

**Dusty, Arid, and Low-Rain Areas:** Cleaning may be necessary monthly or quarterly.

**Rainy Areas:** Rainwater has a self-cleaning effect, which can extend the cleaning interval, but inspections should still be conducted quarterly or semi-annually, focusing on removing adhesive substances (such as bird droppings) that cannot be washed away by rainwater.

**Important Note:** Inspection and cleaning should be performed promptly after each sandstorm, dusty weather event, or period of high bird activity.

In summary: Gentle, regular, and safe. The core of cleaning and maintenance is "regularly removing shading with clean water and soft materials." Treat it as a simple daily maintenance task, like cleaning windows. Keeping the panels clean can typically improve power generation efficiency by 5% to 20% or even higher, making this time investment extremely worthwhile. Developing a habit of regular inspection and cleaning is the best way to ensure your photovoltaic system maintains optimal performance in the long term.