Cleaning Of Solar Panels In UK| How To Clean Panels In UK

If you want to maintain your solar panel efficiency and span life then clean solar panels. Understand the different methods of cleaning solar panels because the weather of the UK is quite different.

In this article you will come to know more about cleaning of solar panels in UK? What are safety tips and how to do it effectively?

Get more info about solar panels

Why do we clean solar panels?

Importance of maintenance:

Solar energy from solar panels is the best option to reduce electricity bills. For this we have to maintain solar panels and keep it clean. When the dust, leaves and other materials make a layer on solar panels the sunlight could not reach photovoltaic cells of panels. This reduces the efficiency of solar panels and produces less electricity.

Impact on efficiency:

Solar panels reduce 20% of their efficiency due to dust. It is proved by studies and cannot be falsified. Solar panels reduce their efficiency and that results in higher electricity bills and less energy production.

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When to Cleaning of solar panels in UK?

Sensational considerations:

The best time to clean solar panels in the UK is autumn and spring season. Spring cleaning removes the winter dust on solar panels and the autumn cleaning prepares for winter season in low sunlight. Do not clean the solar panels during summer season because when the cold water is on hot solar panels there is a chance of cracking of solar panels or any other damage.

Sign solar panels need cleaning:

We can clean solar panels when we notice a sudden change in efficiency of solar panels. After a storm and after checking dust on solar panels we can clean solar panels. Regular inspection and checking we can get the best timing for cleaning of solar panels.

Cost for Cleaning of solar panels in UK:

Job	Duration	Cost
Less than 40 panels on ground floor	10___30 minutes	£60-£100
Less than 20 panels above one floor	20___40 minutes	£100-£150
Less than 40 panels above one floor	60___90 minutes	£150
Clean over 40 panels	1___2 hours	£150-£300

Tools and Equipment we need:

Basic tools for cleaning:

The items that are given below are best and suitable for Cleaning of solar panels in UK without any damage.

Hose

Soft brush

Spray nozzle

Sponge

Soapy water

Specialized Equipment:

For more specialized cleaning and the more and more hard dust we need some specialized equipment. Commercial cleaning kit that includes sponges, soft bristle brushes and telescopic poles. We can clean solar panels commercially by using these equipment.

Cleaning of solar panels in UK Step by Step:

Initial inspection:

Before cleaning, check the solar panels completely. Check corrosion, cracks, damages and loose connections. Solve these issues before cleaning of solar panels to avoid further problems while cleaning or after cleaning.

Rinse panels:

Before cleaning solar panels. Gently rinse the panels to remove loose dust. This will make the cleaning more effective and easier. Do not apply high pressure on panels.

Apply cleaning solution:

Mix the detergent in water or soap then use a sponge and soft brush to clean the panels properly and apply this water on panels. Do not skip any part of solar panels for this work in parts. Apply sponge on panels gently to avoid scratches on solar panels.

Drying:

Rinse off the cleaning solution completely from solar panels. Let panels air dry and remove extra water by using a sponge.

Common mistakes:

Using Abrasive materials:

One of the biggest mistakes that is done is the use of harsh chemicals, hard brushes and pads. This will reduce the efficiency of the solar panels and scratch on the solar panels.

Ignore guidelines:

By ignoring guidelines of cleaning solar panels it will lead to various accidents and damages. Follow up the safety measures like wear non slippery shoes and use a secure ladder. Do not clean the solar panels during adverse conditions or damaged solar panels.

Tips for Cleaning of solar panels in UK:

Regular inspection:

Run regular inspection to check dirt and other wastes on the solar panels. Solve the problems early to get rid of big damage. Use a monitoring system to detect the issues in solar panels. This will increase the efficiency of solar panels.

Keep clean environment:

It is very important to clean the surrounding areas of solar panels. Cut down the trees and remove the objects that cast shadow on solar panels. By getting more sunlight directly more electricity will be produced.

Factors for Cleaning of solar panels in UK:

Weather conditions:

The weather in the UK is unpredictable. Sudden storms or rain happen. These storms and rain put some dust on solar panels. By regular cleaning of solar panels in UK is maintained. Rain washes some dust but the bird drops and some dust leaves.

Urban Vs Rural:

The location of solar panels also affects when to clean solar panels. The solar panels that are in Urban areas where the traffic dust and smoke that adds on the panels and the solar panels that are in rural areas where some dust and bird dropping are on solar panels. So, the location also matters if solar panels need cleaning or not?

Summary:

Keep the solar panels clean to reduce electricity bills, increase the efficiency of solar panels and increase the span life of solar panels. By understanding the importance of maintenance and using safety tips, solar panels work properly. In UK you can clean your solar panels by yourself or also hire a professional for cleaning of solar panels in UK regularly.