Solar panels are designed to provide a steady source of electricity and heat. Each panel has many solar cells. The panels are linked up to each other to form a whole system. They're usually installed onto the roofs and tops of homes and buildings in groups of three or four. To ensure your panels are able to function properly and provide adequate power, make sure that they are properly maintained.
Thankfully, these devices require only the minimum amount of upkeep. The only breakable part is the glass on the solar panels. The only component that has any moving parts at all is the heating pump. Even though maintenance will be light, it's wise to stay on top of it.
Inspecting your solar panels periodically is the first step. Dirt and other pieces of debris will have to be removed to prevent damage. Check them as often as the manufacturer's manual says to or whenever the glass appears particularly dirty. Check them more frequently if you live in a dusty area. Generally, if you check them and they're very dirty, you should check them more frequently. If it helps, create a schedule or mark your calendar to keep track of the device's maintenance.
Now that you've discovered that your solar panels are dirty, you need to clean them to remove the dirt and grime that has accumulated. Soap and warm water can loosen the dirt. Wipe it away with a clean soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass. Bird droppings are commonly found on solar panels, since they're usually located on roofs. These to, will need to be thoroughly removed. To avoid leaving streaks and water spots behind, cool the panels down with room temperature water before applying the soap.
Don't remove the solar panels to clean them. That's more work than it's worth. You'll need to go to the panels to clean them, using a ladder and safety gear. A large amount of ladder and roof related accidents occur each year so it is very important that you take every safety precaution as you inspect and clean the panels.
In order to function properly solar panels must be kept completely clean. A dirty panel could mean that you get little or no use out of it. So cleaning them is an extremely important act, rather than a cosmetic one.
If you are unwilling or unable to ascend to your home's roof, you have a few more options. There is a tool available that allows a homeowner to effectively clean their solar devices from the comfort and safety of the ground. Much like the devices used at a self service car wash, a long metal pole sprays a powerful steady stream of water. Most of the devices can be hooked up the home's front or backyard water faucet.
You could also consider hiring professional solar panel cleaners. These companies can send experts out to your home to inspect and clean rooftop solar panels. They have the proper tools and knowledge to keep them clean and working efficiently. Look in the phone book or online for local businesses that offer this service. Or ask the contractor that installed your system. Make sure you do your research and shop around for the company that offers the best overall deal.
Thankfully, these devices require only the minimum amount of upkeep. The only breakable part is the glass on the solar panels. The only component that has any moving parts at all is the heating pump. Even though maintenance will be light, it's wise to stay on top of it.
Inspecting your solar panels periodically is the first step. Dirt and other pieces of debris will have to be removed to prevent damage. Check them as often as the manufacturer's manual says to or whenever the glass appears particularly dirty. Check them more frequently if you live in a dusty area. Generally, if you check them and they're very dirty, you should check them more frequently. If it helps, create a schedule or mark your calendar to keep track of the device's maintenance.
Now that you've discovered that your solar panels are dirty, you need to clean them to remove the dirt and grime that has accumulated. Soap and warm water can loosen the dirt. Wipe it away with a clean soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass. Bird droppings are commonly found on solar panels, since they're usually located on roofs. These to, will need to be thoroughly removed. To avoid leaving streaks and water spots behind, cool the panels down with room temperature water before applying the soap.
Don't remove the solar panels to clean them. That's more work than it's worth. You'll need to go to the panels to clean them, using a ladder and safety gear. A large amount of ladder and roof related accidents occur each year so it is very important that you take every safety precaution as you inspect and clean the panels.
In order to function properly solar panels must be kept completely clean. A dirty panel could mean that you get little or no use out of it. So cleaning them is an extremely important act, rather than a cosmetic one.
If you are unwilling or unable to ascend to your home's roof, you have a few more options. There is a tool available that allows a homeowner to effectively clean their solar devices from the comfort and safety of the ground. Much like the devices used at a self service car wash, a long metal pole sprays a powerful steady stream of water. Most of the devices can be hooked up the home's front or backyard water faucet.
You could also consider hiring professional solar panel cleaners. These companies can send experts out to your home to inspect and clean rooftop solar panels. They have the proper tools and knowledge to keep them clean and working efficiently. Look in the phone book or online for local businesses that offer this service. Or ask the contractor that installed your system. Make sure you do your research and shop around for the company that offers the best overall deal.
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