San Diego is known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, but it's also a prime location for harnessing the power of the sun through solar panels. As a homeowner who has recently installed solar panels, you may be wondering if rain can clean your solar panels. Or, if you live in a drought-prone area, you may be hoping that rain will do the job for you since you can't use water to clean them. In this blog post, we will explore the truth behind the myth that rain can clean solar panels and provide you with expert advice on how to keep your panels clean and efficient. So, let's get straight to the question...
Will rain clean my solar panels?
The short and simple answer is NO, rain will NOT clean your solar panels. While rainwater may remove some dirt or dust particles from the surface, it's not enough to keep them clean and efficient. Think of it this way, would you leave your car outside and rely on rain to clean it instead of washing it yourself? The same applies to your solar panels. Dirt, dust, and other debris buildup on the panels, which block sunlight and decrease their efficiency. Hence, as a responsible homeowner and solar panel owner, it's crucial to maintain and clean your panels regularly.
vs.
So, how exactly should you clean your solar panels?
First off, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines as to what cleaning agent you should use and how
often you should clean them. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning them every 6-12 months, depending on your location, the panel's orientation, and how dirty your panels are. Always use a non-abrasive cleaning agent, like a specialized solar panel cleaning solution, and a soft brush to avoid scratching the surface. If you live in an area with a high amount of dust or pollution or in an industrial area (photo above is near a horse ranch), it's essential to clean your solar panels more frequently. Consider installing a self-cleaning system that uses water to rinse off dirt, dust, and other debris from the panels. Although it's not recommended due to high cost and potential for water damage to your home.
Another important factor to consider is: Safety
Solar panels are often installed on roofs, which can be dangerous to navigate. If you're not
comfortable cleaning them yourself or you're unable to reach them safely, it's best to hire a professional solar panel cleaning service. Professional services have the necessary equipment, training, and expertise to clean your panels safely and effectively while complying with safety regulations.
Don't risk your life to save a few pennies, it's just not worth it.
Easily clean your solar panels with these effective tips
Want to keep your solar panel array sparkling clean without risking life and limb? We've got you covered. Climbing on top of your roof is a big no-no unless you're trained in safety (and even then, it's risky business). But if you absolutely must, start with deionized water - the safest option for most systems. Stubborn dirt or debris? No problem. Grab a mild detergent like GLASS GLEAM and gently scrub away. Just remember, nothing too abrasive or you'll damage those delicate panel cells. And if all else fails, leave it to the pros like Advanced Solar Cleaning. They'll clean your array without damaging a thing. Safety first, folks!
Love the Rain, but Don't trust it to Clean Your Solar Panels.
Rain may be beneficial to water your plants or wash your car, but it's not a reliable or efficient way to clean your solar panels. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your solar panels are crucial to keep them efficient and functioning well, which will save you money and reduce your environmental impact in the long run. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines, use a non-abrasive cleaning agent, and consider installing a self-cleaning system or hiring a professional service to clean your panels safely and effectively. By taking care of your solar panels, you'll ensure that they continue to provide you with clean, renewable energy for years to come.