Tips for Proper Maintenance and Cleaning of Solar Panels in 2023

Performing regular solar panel maintenance and cleaning is essential to maximize power production and achieve the expected 25+ year lifespan from a PV system. This guide provides recommendations for properly inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining solar panels.

Founded in 1992, GRL is one of the leading brands in China’s low-voltage electrical market. Now, GRL has accumulated extensive R&D and manufacturing experience in solar systems, convergence boxes, fuses, fuse switches, DC fuse switches, isolators and busbar systems. Contact us for more infomation.

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Why Solar Panel Maintenance is Important

Over time, solar panels can accumulate dirt, dust, snow, salt, and other contaminants that will reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the cells. Typical solar panel losses from soiling include:

  • Dust buildup – Losses of 5% or more annually
  • Pollen/tree debris – Production losses up to 10%
  • Bird droppings – Significant power loss if allowed to remain

Cleaning removes these contaminants and restores peak performance. Other maintenance checks safeguard against defects and degradation issues.

Solar Panel Cleaning

Follow these solar panel cleaning best practices:

Cleaning Frequency

  • Desert climates – Clean every 6 months ideally
  • Other areas – Annually is typical, more often if heavy soiling
  • After major storms – Clean after hail, hurricanes, heavy wind/rain

Adjust frequency based on environmental soiling levels.

Cleaning Methods

  • Brush panels with a soft bristled brush to dislodge debris
  • Spray with water, preferably deionized
  • For stubborn dirt, use mild, eco-friendly cleaners
  • Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth, avoid abrasives

Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive pads.

Safety Precautions

  • Shut down solar system and verify it is de-energized
  • Exercise extreme caution when working on roofs
  • Wear proper safety gear – goggles, gloves, harness as needed
  • Block off ground areas under work

Take all necessary solar panel cleaning precautions.

Cleaning Tools/Equipment

  • Soft brush for dry brushing debris
  • Spray bottle or hose with adjustable nozzle
  • Squeegee or microfiber cloth for wiping down
  • Extension poles for roof access
  • Water filtration system for DI water
  • Protective gear – gloves, goggles, harness, cones, signs

Use proper tools to prevent panel damage. Professional crews have specialized equipment.

Solar Panel Inspections

Routine inspections help detect issues early:

When to Inspect

  • During cleaning sessions
  • After major storms
  • Annually at minimum

Schedule more frequent inspections if issues arise.

What to Look For

  • Dirt or debris shading cells
  • Damage to glass, cells, wiring
  • Discolored/peeling anti-reflective coating
  • Backsheet cracking or delamination
  • Leaks at panel joints
  • Wildlife or pest issues

Troubleshooting Common Problems

  • Low output – Clean panels, check for damage, test voltages/continuity
  • String outages – Check string fuses, wiring, isolate bad panels
  • String underperformance – Compare string outputs, isolate bad panels
  • Pests – Seal openings, remove nests humanely

Address identified issues promptly to protect and restore performance.

Solar Panel Repairs and Replacement

As panels age, repairs or replacement may become necessary:

Repairs vs Replacement

  • Minor glass cracks can be repaired cost effectively
  • Severe cracks, cell damage, backsheet issues typically require panel replacement
  • Compare repair costs vs new panel costs

Replacement Costs

  • New Tier 1 solar panels cost $0.75 to $0.90 per Watt typically
  • Installation labor averages $0.25/Watt
  • Total $1.00 to $1.15 per Watt for PV panel replacement

Warranty Considerations

  • Panel warranties typically last 10-12 years
  • Defects covered under warranty may receive free replacement
  • Verify transferability for second owners

Understand when replacement is most cost effective long term.

Professional Solar Panel Maintenance

Solar providers offer maintenance packages that include:

Services

  • Scheduled interval panel cleaning
  • Annual system inspections
  • Testing and troubleshooting electrical issues
  • Filtering monitoring data to detect underperformance
  • Preparing maintenance reports

Technician Qualifications

  • Solar training and PV system certification
  • Electrical safety training and procedures
  • Experience with panel cleaning and repairs
  • Compliance with regional licensing and regulations

Maintenance Contract Benefits

  • Keeps panels in prime condition
  • Maximizes power output and revenues
  • Detects and resolves problems early
  • Provides maintenance data and records
  • Warranty support

Consider professional maintenance to optimize lifetime solar panel performance.

Contact Us for Your Solar Panel Maintenance Needs

With decades of solar experience, our qualified technicians can provide:

  • Skilled inspections and troubleshooting
  • Repairs, replacements, and upgrades
  • Custom maintenance packages
 

Trust us to keep your solar PV investment producing at peak capacity. Contact us today to discuss your needs.  GRL has the ability to independently develop new products and provide OEM & ODM services to help clients gain a competitive advantage. Feel free to contact us or write us a message!

Frequently Asked Solar Panel Maintenance Questions

Q: How often should solar panels be cleaned?

A: Minimum annually, every 6 months for dusty regions. After major storms.

Q: What is the proper way to clean solar panels?

A: Brush debris, spray with water, wipe with microfiber cloth. Avoid chemicals/abrasives.

Q: What supplies are needed to clean solar panels?

A: Soft brushes, DI water, microfiber towels, cleaning sprayers, safety gear.

Q: How can I safely access my roof solar panels for cleaning?

A: Use proper fall protection like harnesses, guardrails. Professional cleaning services recommended.

Q: How much does professional solar panel cleaning cost?

A: $100 to $300 for typical residential system cleaning. Quotes vary regionally.

Q: How can I tell if my solar panels need to be cleaned?

A: Compare output to baseline. Visually inspect for dirt buildup. Clean if output drops 5% or more.

Q: Does cleaning solar panels increase energy production?

A: Yes, removing soiling can increase production by 10% or more in some cases.

Q: What damage can occur from improper solar panel cleaning?

A: Harsh chemicals or abrasives can damage glass, frames, and cells.

Q: How often should solar panels be inspected?

A: Annually at minimum. Ideally during cleaning. After major weather events.

Q: What should you look for when inspecting solar panels?

A: Damage, debris shading cells, discoloration/corrosion, backsheet issues, wildlife.

Q: How much does solar panel replacement cost?

A: $1.00 to $1.15 per Watt typically – includes new panels and installation labor.

Q: How long do solar panels typically last?

A: Solar panels can maintain over 80% output for 25-30 years when properly maintained.

Q: What factors cause solar panels to degrade over time?

A: Normal decline in solar cell efficiency. Accumulated weathering and damage.

Q: When is it time to replace solar panels due to degradation?

A: When output drops 15-20% and repairs/cleaning cannot restore performance.

Q: Is it better to repair or replace damaged solar panels?

A: Minor damage can be repaired. Severe damage often requires full replacement.

Q: Are solar panel warranties transferable to a new homeowner?

A: Typically manufacturer warranties transfer. Extended warranties may not.

Q: What should be included in solar panel maintenance contracts?

A: Scheduled cleaning, inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, production monitoring.

Q: Is it safe to install solar panels on my own?

A: Solar requires expertise. Using certified pros ensures safety and code compliance.

Q: What qualifications should solar maintenance technicians have?

A: PV training/certifications, electrical licensing, safety procedures training.

Q: How do I troubleshoot issues with my solar panels?

A: Isolate underperforming strings. Check connections, fuses, voltages. Inspect panels.

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