By Evolution Solar Sunshine Coast

There are quite a number of houses that have installed solar power on the Sunshine Coast nowadays. These solar power systems are great because they are quiet and have no running costs. We tend to even forget they are there until we receive an electricity bill and realise that we did not save as much as we should have. This could be due to a few factors; one of them is dirty panels. Have you ever thought about cleaning your panels? A solar power system can lose up to 25% in production due to the solar panels not being clean.

No matter where you live, your panels will slowly collect dirt over time. It may not be visible from the ground but I can guarantee you it is there. There are a number if things that could add to the dirt collected by your panels, such as dust, pollen, leaves, salt spray and animal droppings.

Sure, when it rains, the dirt is washed away…or is it? Yes the loose dirt, dust and leaves may be washed off, but there is a layer of dirt that has remained. Try cleaning a window by just spraying it down. Does the window become clean or do you have to use a cloth and maybe some window cleaner to clean it properly. Your panels are made of glass too, therefore the same principle applies. In short, it is a good idea to have your panels cleaned every now and then.

How often should you clean them? Well the answer varies. Where do you live? Does your house collect dust often? Do you live near the beach and get salty sea breezes? Do you live near an industrial site or busy road? Is there construction going on in your area? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I would suggest a clean would be required once every 6 months. A clean once a year would suffice If you live in an area that is relatively unaffected by dust and busy roads etc.

You may want to clean the panels yourself. In some cases this can be done easily. However we will always recommend that you get a professional to do the clean as there are risks involved in climbing up on the roof and doing it yourself. The professionals have the right equipment and are accustomed to working at heights and on different types of roofs. It will probably take them half the time and effort too. They will also pick up on any areas that may need attention such as loose mounting fixtures, shade and unnecessary corrosion amongst other things. Speak to your solar installer and they will mostly likely have someone who can clean them for you or they can point you in the right direction to find someone who can.

If you do decide to do it yourself here are a few tips before you begin:-

1. Most importantly, be SAFE. Make sure you shut your system down by turning it off according to the installers’ instructions. You could electrocute yourself or others if you don’t!

2. Use a safety harness if possible, secure your ladder and wear nonslip shoes. Wet roofs are very slippery! You can never be too careful.

3. Clean in the morning or evening so the panels are not too hot. They are glass and can get extremely hot. There is also the possibility you could crack them if you pour cold water onto such a hot surface.

Cleaning tips (Remember to shut the system down!)

1. Firstly I would check under your panels for any build-up of debris. Clean this out by hand or use a blower. In some cases you may have to get someone to come and do this for you as there is not much space to get under the panels without lifting them.

2. Use a soft bristle broom, mop or window squeegee.

3. Use water only if you can. For dirt that is slightly more stubborn, use window cleaner. Do not use any products that are caustic or abrasive. Check the label before you use it.

4. Do not stand or lean on the panels or disconnect any wires.

5. Once you have washed the panels, dry them off with a towel. This will prevent water spots forming.

6. Look around while you are up there. Are there any trees or other items close by that may be casting a shadow on to your panels at certain time in the day? If there are it may be an idea to trim these back or taking the appropriate action to ensure that the panels remain in full sunlight for as long as possible.

7. Once you are finished don’t forget to switch the system back on!

Weather you do it yourself or get the professionals in to do it, a good clean once a year will help your solar system keep generating at its full potential.