Cleaning photovoltaic panels in 8 simple steps. Access complete services with Charger.ro

Maintaining photovoltaic panels also includes cleaning them so that the equipment can operate at optimal capacity. Even though this may seem daunting, we have several solutions for you.

Good news: cleaning photovoltaic panels is not that difficult and ensures the optimal performance of your installation. In this article, you will learn how to do this easily and how to continue getting the best performance from your installed photovoltaic system. Clean panels generate the most electricity!

Firstly, you can turn to Charger.ro for complete maintenance services. Charger is with you throughout the lifespan of the systems offered and installed, not just at the beginning - both through warranty and extra services. Additionally, there are several companies on the market that offer specialized solutions for cleaning photovoltaic panels, including automated systems that you can access either through us or directly.

If, however, you dare to do this on your own, below are our recommendations and the benefits of a clean photovoltaic system:

Why clean photovoltaic panels? It's beneficial for your wallet:

? Clean panels generate between 3 and 10% more electricity;

?? You will recover the costs of professional cleaning through better performance;

What safety measures should you apply?

?? Completely stop the system before starting;

?? Do not touch the cables with water;

?? It's best to work from the ground;

How often is cleaning necessary?

??? The frequency of cleaning photovoltaic panels may vary depending on several factors, but there are general recommendations for their optimal maintenance: -

• Annual cleaning: Most experts recommend cleaning the panels at least once a year. This applies to photovoltaic panels installed in areas with a moderate level of pollution and dirt.
• Twice a year: In case your location is exposed to harsh conditions, such as industrial pollution or the rainy season, cleaning twice a year may be a better option.
• Regular monitoring: In addition to periodic cleaning, it's important to check the panels monthly or quarterly to see how clean they are and whether dust and dirt are accumulating around the photovoltaic cells.
• User manual: Consult the user manual of the solar panels for specific recommendations from the manufacturer regarding the frequency of cleaning and suitable cleaning methods.
• Dependence on conditions: The cleaning frequency may vary depending on location and weather conditions. Areas with less rainfall may require more frequent cleaning than those with more precipitation.

What materials are needed?

?? Soft brush with a telescopic handle;

?? Lime-free water or rainwater;

?? Soft cloth or sponge;

?? Use only special soap or none;

How much does it cost to clean the photovoltaic system?

?? The cost of maintaining photovoltaic panels can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, location, and cleaning frequency. On average, the cost of cleaning photovoltaic panels ranges from 500 to 1,500 RON for a typical residential solar panel system. For larger commercial systems, the cost can vary between 2,000 and 4,000 RON or even more. It's also important to note that certain factors, such as the cleaning method used or the accessibility of the panels, can influence the cost of cleaning photovoltaic panels. For example, using professional cleaning services may involve higher costs than cleaning the panels yourself. Additionally, in areas with a high cost of living, the cost of cleaning solar panels may be higher.

Cleaning solar panels - is it necessary?

There are arguments for and against cleaning photovoltaic installations. The fact is that a large part of the dirt is already washed away by rain. However, especially in the case of a flat roof, dust and dirt accumulate fairly quickly on the sensitive panels. The inclination of photovoltaic panels determines how easily snow and rain slide off. This already has a cleaning effect on most photovoltaic installations on a sloped roof.

Nevertheless, it is recommended to perform thorough cleaning from time to time. The independent research organization TNO calculates that the energy efficiency loss due to dirty cells ranges from 3 to 10%. Depending on the total surface area of your modules, cleaning solar panels can quickly become a laborious task! Fortunately, it doesn't have to happen too often, and as mentioned above - there are services for that, even from Charger.ro!

Would you like to learn more about implementing a photovoltaic system? Request a dedicated offer for your location.

Professionally cleaned or do it yourself?

When it comes to electrical installations, our recommendation is always to turn to professional solutions. In addition, not everyone has scaffolding in place or the appropriate safety equipment to climb onto the roof.

The basic rule over the course of a year is: With an energy efficiency improvement of at least 3.5%, you can recover the costs of professional cleaning. The best time to clean the photovoltaic installation is at the beginning of spring. We have the most sunshine in Romania between May and July. Before the sun becomes stronger, your panels are ready to work optimally."