A solar panel is a piece of electronic equipment that converts sunlight into heat or electricity using solar radiation. Solar thermal panels, which convert sunlight into heat, and photovoltaic solar panels, which generate electricity from light, are the two types of solar energy devices. In both situations, the amount of sunshine they receive is critical, and the duration and intensity of the sunshine vary with the seasons and geographical location.
The efficiency of a solar panel is the proportion between the amount of energy it captures and the amount of energy it generates. 20% efficiency indicates that 20% of solar energy is converted to electricity, while the remaining 80% is turned into heat. The more efficient a solar system is, the more electricity it generates. Although the type of technology utilized in solar panel cells has a significant impact on their efficiency, the typical efficiency of solar panels ranges from 15 to 25%.
On the other hand, solar panels do not absorb as much of the sun’s rays when they are dirty, thus lowering their efficiency and power output.
Is it necessary to clean your solar panels?
The sweat is not worth it, so we’d say no. Researchers from the University of San Diego discovered that dirt caused less than 0.05% of energy loss. Washing them is primarily a question of beauty rather than efficiency. The cells of a photovoltaic solar panel are sensitive to physical shock. If you don’t want to damage the cells, you must be particularly cautious when cleaning them.
But what if your panels are covered in dust and grime, with no rain expected for several days or weeks?
Read the specifications / Contact the manufacture
Contacting the manufacturer of the solar panels is the first step since they may provide instructions or warnings on cleaning them. If you choose not to contact them directly, look at the panel specifications sheet to see whether any special precautions are required. Although this step is tedious, the goal is not to violate their warranty.
The second step is to use a low-flow garden hose and water the panels as much as feasible without coming into direct contact with them. The use of a low-flow garden hose is essential because the panels’ cells must not be damaged.
A pressure was her should not be used, as doing so may result in irreversible damage. It would be unfortunate if your good intentions caused more harm.
If nothing else works, use a soft cloth to gently wipe the screens. You may also clean the panels with a little soap but no detergent. Non-abrasive sponges may also be used.
Consider it a little like when you clean your automobile. You don’t want to use too much pressure or something too abrasive, since you don’t want your car paint to be scuffed or damaged.
How to clean off snow?
Snow will usually melt after a few days, with the exception of ice storms. The same techniques for washing apply in the event that it does not melt: be cautious and try to remove the snow as softly as possible.
The brush you employ to clean your automobile’s windscreen may be utilized, but the bristles should not come in contact with the glass since they are abrasive. Wipe away the top layer of snow, and wait for the final snow to melt.
If ice forms, you may use warm water; however, keep in mind that if it is too hot, the panels will be damaged by thermal shock, and the cells will shatter.
In a nutshell, washing your solar panels is not advised other than in the most exceptional circumstances when their energy production falls significantly below average. When it comes to washing, be cautious and try your hardest not to be too harsh with the panels.