The solar panel industry continues to grow, with it expected to account for around 40% of the country’s electricity supply by 2035. If you have a solar panel system set up at your residence or commercial property, you already know all of the benefits you can experience from this renewable energy source.
One thing you might not realize is that as your panels become dirty, their performance will start to suffer. But when is the right time to hire solar panel cleaning services?
This guide will go over everything you need to know about solar panel maintenance and when to call in professionals.
Do I Need to Clean My Solar Panels?
In order to perform optimally, your solar panels need to be cleaned. Sometimes rain is enough to clean off some of the built-up dirt and grime. However, there are certain instances when calling in a professional solar panel company is required.
Solar panels need light from the sun in order to generate electricity. The solar cells within each panel absorb the sun’s light, transforming it into electricity. Anything that’s on the top layer of a solar panel will result in a decrease in the panel’s efficiency.
Some common materials include:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Pollen
- Ash
- Leaves
- Bird droppings
Consistent rainfall can wash away most of the above materials. Unfortunately not every state in the US receives a consistent amount of rain. That means you can’t completely rely on the weather to clean your solar panels for you.
Why You Should Hire a Solar Company
Let’s talk about some of the reasons why you should hire a solar company to clean your home solar power system. If you want to learn more, you can research solar panel companies in the Richmond area.
They Won’t Damage the Panels
One of the major reasons why you shouldn’t clean your panels yourself is that you could potentially damage them. A professional company will use special cleaning equipment that’s designed to not damage your panels.
Non-abrasive equipment and soft bristles are needed to ensure you don’t scratch your solar panels. If you cleaned them yourself with standard cleaning equipment, you run the risk of scratching them.
Improve Your System’s Efficiency
If you clean your panels yourself, it’s not guaranteed that you’re cleaning them to the best standards. A solar panel company will clean them properly, improving their efficiency as they effectively remove all unwanted materials.
Correct Cleaning Detergents
Just as it’s important to use the right type of tools to clean your panels, it’s also essential to use the correct cleaning detergents. Using the wrong type of cleaning solutions could result in issues for your panels.
Connect With a Reliable Company for Solar Panel Cleaning Services
It can be tempting to try to clean your solar panels yourself. You should hire a company that’s experienced with solar panel cleaning services. They’ll ensure the job is done correctly without damaging your system.
For more information on the latest technology trends, check out one of our other articles.