As solar technology has improved over the years, it’s becoming more common to see businesses take advantage of solar panels. Not only do solar panels provide a clean source of alternative energy, but they can also save you money in the process. Additionally, being known as a business that’s environmentally conscious can potentially boost your reputation as well.
For solar panels to work, they need to be exposed to sunlight. Most often, they can be seen installed on roofs to maximize sun exposure. However, since they’re located outside, they tend to be susceptible to obstructions like dirt and bird debris. If not taken care of, these obstructions can affect how much light you’re converting into energy.
The Need for Solar Panel Cleaning Services
How often do you clean the roof of your commercial building? Probably not often, if at all. You may be among the many people who believe that if dirt and debris get on your roof, the rain and wind can take care of it for you. This is the same logic that tends to be applied to the upkeep of solar panels. So the question is: Does washing solar panels help?
It’s true that, in some cases, the weather can often do the work for you. But what if something gets on your system that can’t easily be wiped away? Or perhaps you live in an area without much precipitation and a lot of dirt and dust due to winds. Say, for example, a flock of birds pass by your building and decide it’s the perfect place to do business. Bird droppings likely won’t be washed away by the next rainstorm. Dirt and dust can also stick to panel faces. In these situations, cleaning your solar panels is really necessary.
How to Clean Solar Panels
If you need to clean your solar panels, you have two options: hire a professional or do it yourself. It’s always recommended to go the professional route because of their expertise and knowledge; they know how to clean your panels without damaging them as well as locate and correct any basic system defects when found. However, if you’re interested in doing the cleaning yourself, here are a few things you are going to need:
- Hose
- Water
- Bucket
- Eco-friendly Soap
- Non-Abrasive Sponge
- Squeegee
Before you do anything, check with your solar installers and providers to determine if there is anything you should know about cleaning your panels. They can provide details and recommendations for cleaning your system properly and protecting your investment.
How Often Should I Clean My Solar Panels?
Cleaning your solar panels can help restore the maximum potential of your system’s ability to convert light into energy, but how often should it be done? A simple physical inspection can help you determine the need for a cleaning. This is especially recommended if you live in an area where wildfires or dust storms are common. The dust and dirt build-up on your panels can easily reduce electrical production by 15% if not removed.
Another option to consider is the installation of a monitoring system. With this technology, you can stay on top of the performance of your solar panels. If efficiency drops, the monitoring system can send you an alert that your system needs maintenance.
Keep Your Solar Panels Functioning at Their Best
At C.I. Services, we want to help you get the most out of your solar system. In addition to our installation services, our experienced team can also perform solar system and roof system repairs and maintenance. As California’s premier source for solar solutions, you can count on us to take care of your commercial solar panels.
Contact us today to learn more about our solar panel services.