Fall is Just around the corner! are you ready?
It’s that time of year again! Fall is just around the corner and what a beautiful season it is with leaves changing color and cooler temperatures bringing us relief from those summer heat waves we were experiencing. While the cooler temperatures may feel like a relief from the summer heat, falling leaves, pine cones, and other debris can reduce your solar system's efficiency if left unchecked. Preparing your panels for the Fall season is an important part of ensuring and maintaining peak performance and avoiding potential damage. Let’s jump into that pile of leaves!
What Should I Know Before I Get Started?
Our solar systems are designed to be virtually maintenance free during the lifetime of the systems installation. Panels should not require regular cleaning. Seasonal rainfall is usually enough to keep panels free of normal soiling. However, an occasional cleaning of the panels may be needed to ensure optimal performance. We recommend that you inspect your panels and should they need cleaning. There is no better time than the Fall, you might be wondering why that is? The reason is outside temperature can affect your panels, think of your panels as glass, if you put cool water on panels that are hot it could cause your panels to shatter. The best thing to do to avoid this is wait until temperatures are a bit cooler outside.
What Supplies Will I Need?
A garden hose
We recommend that you do not use a pressure washer
A ladder
Recommended surface cleaner for photo-voltaic (solar) panels
In cases where excessive dirt has accumulated due to dust caused by forest fire ash, local farms, exposed dirt, etc., We strongly recommend using ONLY water and a soft cloth to remove debris from the panels.
For hard-to-remove debris, consider the following solutions:
For Anti Reflective Coating (ARC) glass: Various glass cleaners, including Windex have been tested on ARC glass, so we consider glass cleaners safe to be used as a cleaning solution as long as the cleaner is not applied with an abrasive sponge.
Do not use an abrasive tool, such as Scotch Brite. It will cause scratches on the glass. Always use a soft material on solar panels.
Kitchen dish soap is also acceptable. Make sure that the glass is rinsed well so no residue is left (aesthetic issue). Again, be sure and use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. For regular, non-ARC glass: use any off-the-shelf glass cleaner with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
For panels accidentally tainted by tar
We recommend using a petroleum based bug & tar remover.
What Are The Steps For Inspection And Cleaning?
Step 1: Inspect the panels for dirt, dust, and other debris
Look over the panels carefully for any visible dirt, dust, bird droppings, or other debris. These substances can obstruct sunlight and reduce the efficiency of your solar panels.Step 2: Rinse the solar panels with water first
Start by using a garden hose with low-pressure water to rinse off any loose dirt, dust, and debris. This initial rinse helps remove surface grime and may be all that is needed.
Step 3: In cases of remaining debris
This step is only needed if there is remaining debris after the initial rinse.For hard to remove debris: consider using one of the listed glass cleaners above keeping in mind not to use an abrasive tool to prevent scratches. A non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth is all you need. .
For panels tainted with Tar: we recommend using the supplies listed above. Keep in mind that the module edges and frames/frame tapes should not be exposed to these solutions. Take extra care not to scratch the module glass by using harsh/ abrasive material to clean the module.
Step 4: Rinse the panels with a low-pressure garden hose
If Step 4 is needed next you will want to use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse the panels of any cleaning solution or remaining debris.
If you have any questions about caring for your solar panels, please feel free to ask. We’re here to support you!
Enjoy The Season With Peace Of Mind Knowing Your System Is Ready!
Fall is the perfect time for solar panel maintenance if needed as it marks the transition from the sun-drenched summer months to the shorter, cooler days leading into the winter. Inspecting and cleaning your panels now, if needed, will help you maintain their efficiency and prevent potential issues caused by debris or weather changes. Remember, a little care now can make a big difference in their performance later. If you have any questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
