Why Clean Your Solar Panels?

Like most things from cars, and appliances to chimneys, if you let dirt, grime, and debris collect, their efficiency diminishes. Findings are confirmed by the World Academy of Science, Engineering, and Technology, who says “A drop in the efficiency of a solar PV panel is not desired.” One of the contributing factors to the drop in efficiency in solar PV panels is the accumulation of dust on solar panels.

Experts have found that the efficiency of dirty panels will reduce the efficiency of solar panels by 35%. They suggest that you plan to have your panels professionally cleaned every 3-6 months for best efficiency. When dust, debris, and bird droppings accumulate on your panels, it causes shading on the panels. When shading occurs the panels are less efficient. 

Benefits of Cleaning Solar Panels.

• Better efficiency. Accumulated debris will diminish the amount of power the system can produce. The shading from accumulation will hinder the overall efficiency.
• Overall longevity. Like any other apparatus that you have in your home. Cleaning the appliance will keep it in better condition. Call Guardian, our professionals will be able to notice if there are any repairs needed while cleaning the solar panels. 

When Do I Know that I am In Need of A Cleaning?

It is recommended as mentioned above to have your solar panels cleaned every three to 6 months. But this depends on the location of your panels. Where you live. If you live down a dusty dirt road, you may need more frequent cleanings. If you tend to have a lot of bird droppings, again you may find you need to have more frequent cleanings.

• You will be able to see if the panels need a cleaning. The visual observance should show you if you need one or not.
• Contact a professional. They will be happy to come out and inspect your panels before you book your cleaning. They will be able to let you know if a cleaning is needed or you could wait a month or two more. 

Don’t Be Fooled By Rainwater.

You may say, “Oh great it’s raining. The panels will be cleaned off. My efficiency will be up to par.” Rainwater will not clean your solar panels to a degree that will optimize their efficiency. It won’t compare to a professional cleaning. Look at your car’s windshield. If a bird’s droppings are on your windshield and your windshield wipers are not hitting it, how long will it take to wash away? Usually, it won’t. The sun beats down on it and it cakes on. Normally a good scrub will finally clean it off. Exactly why we don’t recommend depending on rainwater to clean off your solar panels.

So when you are ready for a cleaning, contact Guardian Chimney Sweep as we are experts in cleaning solar panels as well.

The mission of Guardian Chimney Sweep is to offer prompt, professional solar panel cleaning with minimal interruptions in our customers’ daily lives. We strive to provide expert solar panel cleaning as well as chimney sweep, chimney cleanings, chimney inspections, chimney repairs, fireplace inserts, gas logs, chimney rebuilds, gas logs, and more to our customers with low-cost, reliable service in a timely fashion.