The best part was that I IMMEDIATELY saw a 20% increase in production! Laura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes, travel and lifestyle. Do not wash solar panels when they are hot the sudden temperature change from cold water increases the risk of cracking the glass. Mr. Clean AutoDry Car Wash System Starter Kit. Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC is your #1 choice for phenomenally clean solar panels. Guardian Fall Protection Bucket of Safe-Tie with Temper Anchor. An expert appraisal of the very best solar panel cleaning products available on the market today. Some solar panel cleaning tools even have ON/OFF buttons to regulate the flow of water as and when needed. We use pure filtered water and specialized equipment, never harmful chemicals or abrasives. Solar panels dont require much maintenance, but keeping them clean is essential to their performance. uses the purest reverse osmosis deionized water to boost photovoltaic (PV) production by 20% or even more in some cases. In that case, homeowners should hire professional assistance to avoid potentially serious injuries. With a pole extending up to 20-ft, soft yet hardy bristles, and a water-feeder which comes with its own lightweight, flexible hose, this is your best bet if you want to keep those roof-mounted solar panels clean and optimised for performance. However, if your solar panels are only tilted minimally, or you live in a high-traffic, dry or dusty area, or even by the sea, then youre going to need to clean your solar panels in order for them to continue generating maximum output of power. No corrosive chemicals, only the purest reverse osmosis deionized water. All Rights Reserved. Some roofs are easily accessible from the ground, and others arent. By absorbing sunlight, they create a current thats converted to usable electricity. However, homes with second or third stories may require climbing up to the roof. 2022 Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC. Some brushes can be preloaded with your preferred glass cleaner or cleaning product, which can then be sprayed from the head, whilst others are only compatible with cold water, and still others are dry brushes only. All products are independently selected, tested or recommended by our team of experts.If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Camco Flow-Through Wash Brush is a super affordable alternative to the more up-market options on this list. The DocaPole is a simple squeegee with a washing cloth on the other side of the head. If you live in an area with very hard water, then mineral deposits left on your solar panels as they dry could be a real issue. Clean your solar panels on an overcast day in the early morning or evening in cooler months. A clean panel can be up to 25% more efficient than a dirty one. https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/weather_sun.svg, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/basic_battery_charge.svg, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/arrows_deny.svg, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/basic_elaboration_todolist_check.svg, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/basic_battery_full.svg, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/basic_battery_half.svg, Advanced Service guarantees a minimal drop off in power output due to dirt build up and keeps unwanted pests away, https://premiersolarcleaning.com/wp-content/themes/salient/css/fonts/svg/basic_battery_empty.svg. Brushing breaks down and removes some material, making the next steps in the cleaning process more effective. Extending up to 20-foot, whilst remaining lightweight, this brush allows you to reach roof-mounted panels from the ground with ease. If this isnt possible, you will need to hire a Clean Energy Council accredited technician with the appropriate safety and equipment training instead. If deionized or distilled water isnt available, treating hose water with a water softener can help improve its cleansing power. Starting with a gentle brushing is the best way to clean solar panels because if a lot of material is sitting on solar panels, immediately mixing the debris with water might cause spread and smear. Cooler days are better to complete a solar panel cleaning project because they minimize the risk of cracking glass as the water dries. Advanced Service guarantees a minimal drop off in power output due to dirt build up and keeps unwanted pests away. If cleaning solar panels seems more dangerous than beneficial, contacting a professional is a practical solution to improving solar output. Maximum 10 texts per month. If DIY solar panel cleaning is feasible, the first step is shutting them off. For two-story homes, youll need a bit more ladder to get the job done: Remember to use your unique situation to determine what you need. This scrubber is multifunctional and of simple design. Dust, grime, and environmental pollutants severely impact the efficacy of solar panels. Solar Panels require little maintenance aside from regular cleaning in order to work at maximum efficiency. We focus on providing high end solar and wind powered products. Phenomenal protection and power production, guaranteed. Residue can build up and decrease the efficiency of your panels over time. Rave reviews from customers suggest that this is the very best solar panel cleaner out there. Having taken a look at our top picks in three categories, and addressed the inner-workings and considerations relating to these products, its time we took a more in-depth look at the best solar panel cleaning tools on the market in 2021-22. Everything you need to know about solar water heating. Lets take a brief look at our top picks across a small range of categories. Solar panel cleaning is essential for maintaining optimal solar system performance. But just like that TV, solar panels will start to accumulate dust and dirt on the surface very quickly, and that is when you have to consider the best solar panel cleaning tools for the job of keeping them clean and working efficiently. Only solar panels that are easy and safe to access should be cleaned without professional services. It may be tempting to hit solar panels with as much water as possible to get the job done quickly, but high-pressure cleaning is likely to create fine cracks on their surfaces. Regular monitoring of solar panel output and condition ensures your solar power system produces at top capacity AND saves money by catching minor issues early. It could be a little demoralizing to spend an hour cleaning your panels only to discover later that they look even dirtier than they were when you started! is available to clean rooftop solar panel systems on your home or business, solar carports, and even large ground solar systems. Whilst some solar panel owners opt to wash them down with just a hose, this is insufficient and leaves lots of tough dirt and grime on the panels. Sunrun expects installations arising from new Home Depot stores to ramp gradually throughout the year. Let us do your dirty work and SAVE YOU MONEY! This water attracts other chemicals, so its more efficient for cleaning. Solar panels are generally pretty much self-cleaning as natural rainfall will usually wash away the accumulated dust and grime.
Use a hose with a suitable nozzle that gets the water stream to the tops of your panels. Time required: 20 minutes to 1 hour Difficulty: Beginner Estimated cost: $40$75 (when supplies are first needed).
The EQUIPMAXX water-fed pole is made from aerospace-grade aluminium, and has sturdy brass fittings allowing you to securely attach your outdoor faucet or hose, with which you can then wash, brush and clean your panels in one. Manufacturer specifications will explain how to make sure electrical currentsboth produced by the panel and going into the homeare turned off. Most come in at under $50, with still others as cheap as $25-30. I called Adam last minute and had him come out to clean my 13 panels and he showed up within 30 minutes.
The poles are made of a wide range of materials, all lightweight, with the very best being made from aerospace-quality aluminium (strong and light). Water is the best solar panel cleaner, especially if its deionized or distilled.
Rain can wash away much of the dirt and debris that might block a homes solar panels from absorbing the maximum amount of sunlight. Now that you know what components go into the construction of solar panel cleaning brushes, lets answer a few questions you need to consider before purchasing one. Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC. Wear work gloves to keep your hands clean and safe. As we stated earlier, cleaning tools for solar panels tend to have telescoping poles of varying lengths. Have your panels inspected by a reputable solar specialist before getting your panels cleaned. However, grime can still build up over time.
It is also important to remember that some cleaners can leave a residue. Such cleaning tools make the scrubbing and washing of hard-to-reach and roof-mounted solar panels much, much easier, whilst those without require either a dry-clean or manually retracting and dipping the brush head time after time until the panels are clean. For cleaning solar panels, you want to find a quality brush head that has two important features: As far as specific items go, there are options to suit any needs and budgets. Our pigeon proofing/protective barriers protectyourhome. Does Your House Qualify for Solar? The pole onto which the brush head is attached is telescoping, meaning that it can be extended up to a maximum reach, clipped into place there (so that it is secure), and then retracted for storage or for more accessible cleans. Typically used for washing windows, this pole scrubber is perfect for solar panels as well. Environmentally friendly. Sunruns solar service and Brightbox give people the freedom to create their own energy, contribute to healthier communities, and support a safer, more resilient energy system for everyone, said Lynn Jurich, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, of Sunrun. Even though rain clears away some of this, it doesnt get everything and can create dirty residue when puddles evaporate.
Before you go purchasing the first snow rake you see, remember that most of these rakes were designed to be used on rooftops, not solar panels. Solar Panels Maintenance: Is It Really Necessary? If you do not currently own a ladder and want to make sure that you get something that will work well for your project, use Home Depots handy ladder measurement graphic to be sure that you are working safe and purchasing the most economical option.
For those of you that like a complete kit package, the same company offers a whole setup meant specifically for solar panel cleaning for under $300. These have more supportive grip than a hose on its own. The services provided to you on this site are not provided by Ford Motor Company, but rather by Sunrun, 225 Bush St #1400, San Francisco, CA, 94104, an independent company. A dirty solar panel may be producing 15-25% less electricity than a clean one. Maybe it's time to call in a solar energy pro. Because of the potential danger involved, it would be best to consider options that allow you to clean from the ground first and avoid walking on the roof altogether! Using just clean water and your soft brush with sponge and squeegee functions, remove any stubborn grime and residue. This can be done from the ground if the soft brush is attached to a telescopic extension pole with a threaded tip or hook. We put a lot of work into designing, researching, writing, editing and reviewing these articles. Standard hardware supplies can be used for a solar panel cleaning project, but safety considerations are critical. The built-in squeegee allows you to easily wipe water away, though note that this brush does not enable to user to pump water directly through it, as do other competitor products. This is a Veteran owned and operated company that I am very happy to recommend and support. Customers may also access information about Sunruns solar-as-a-service and Brightbox home battery offerings or set up a consultation through www.homedepot.com. The pole extends up to 20 feet, though even without extending it is still a good 6.5 feet long. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Are there any tools that you wished you had from the beginning or something that you find yourself never using? Clean solar panels will have lower energy costs because they allow maximum exposure and higher solar output. Some poles can extend to 24 feet. If your panels are roof-mounted, water-compatibility is probably a good option, since you cant always rely on rain water, and it would be hard to get up there with a bucket of water yourself. The handle can extend up to 12 feet long, giving it a reach of approximately 20-feet when used from a standing position. Finding a model with some padding is essential. If you need to climb onto the roof, take safety precautions like wearing a hard hat and harness. You can opt out anytime. So your daytime traffic never even knows we were there. You wont need a huge pump to get the job done because we arent relying on the pressure to clean the panels, but rather the scrubbing action. Americans are united in their desire for clean, renewable energy. Copyright 2022 UnderstandSolar.com. Rinse with clan water and dry with the squeegee. Only direct water on the top suface of your panels, not on the back of the panels or in the gaps between the panels and the roof. The brush end of solar panel cleaning tools holds a soft-bristled brush, sometimes with two layers of brushes (one for lifting dirt, one for brushing it away). If a garden hose doesnt allow for enough spraying control, a telescopic hose wand may help.
By Jacqueline Medina | Updated Apr 7, 2022 12:55 PM. Solar panels must be turned off before cleaning, and the underside should never be touched. This design is better for close range application but is durable and simple to use, and relatively affordable. However, if the panels are more easily accessible, then you may feel you only need a dry brush. Careful, detailed visual inspection of your solar panel equipment prevents panel malfunction and keeps your solar energy system performing with high efficiency. Debris should be removed with gentle brushing from a soft-bristled tool to start the cleaning process.
The head can be tilted and locked into place to achieve otherwise difficult cleaning angles. A:This depends upon the accessibility of your panels. Home Solar Equipment Solar Panel Cleaning Tools. Ohuhu 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder. The amount generated depends on the absorption of sunlight, so if solar panels are dirty, theyre not as efficientor cost-effectiveas they can be. Check with your manufacturers recommendations and restrictions before deciding to use a cleaner, and always thoroughly rinse your panels after cleaning. The most cost-effective way to increase the efficiency of your solar electricity system is to have regular cleanings and inspections performed. A hard hat, ladder support, and harness are recommended for any homeowner who plans to work on a roof instead of from the ground. The good news is that if you have soft water, then you shouldnt need to worry too much about this step but use your own situation to help determine your needs. This happens because those minerals, mostly calcium, will not evaporate with your rinse water and instead will dry into a scale on the surface of your solar panels. Below we have covered some of the types of cleaning tools that you may want to consider, including some of our top picks for the best solar panel cleaning tools for 2018. A:A general recommendation is about every three months, however, if you have severe rain, smog, wind, or snow; it might be a better idea to clean them more often, perhaps once a month. You also agree to our Terms of Service. Based on your particular needs, one-time cleaning and monthly maintenance programs are available. These little guys come in handy in many other projects as well so its highly possible that youll get more out of this purchase than simply an addition to your solar panel cleaning tools. Is it possible to use cleaning products directly through the brush? Another important aspect to consider is safety. The bristles are designed to be soft enough that theyre not liable to scratch the surface of your expensive solar panels (obviously an important feature). Be sure to suit up in a safety harness to ensure that your first slip wont be your last! When maintained properly, solar panels can produce high amounts of electricity without damaging the environment, whilst saving you money year-in, year-out, for many years to come. As such, they can be made from metal or even hard plastic that could scratch or break the glass on your panels if you arent careful. What has your experience been in the past? With a few easy-to-find tools, homeowners can learn how to clean solar panels safely to boost their efficiency, as well as determine when it might be best to hire professional help for solar panel cleaning. Rain can help to clear off a bulk of heavy particulates but does not effectively rid the glass of smaller dirt and grime. It varies from place to place, but some studies have shown that dust storms can decrease the power output of a solar array by 20-50%. After spraying away most of the mess, problem areas can be given extra attention with a sponge, squeegee, or soft cloth dunked into a bucket of clean water. The brush is designed to clean cars, boats, RVs, and other items, but works great for cleaningsolar panels. Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), Ammonia-free formula removes dirt without smearing or streaking, Active ingredients help reduce surface tension on solar panels, Concentrated liquid surfaces thoroughly to improve efficiency. Solar panels are electrical equipment and should not be cleaned while active. Hard water (mineral rich) can leave deposits when it dries. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydneys many bookstores. Depending on how often you intend to clean your panels, and how dirty they tend to get, these are important considerations to make. Time to make a switch to eco-friendly and cost-effective solar rain barrel pumps. Please consider supporting us through making a purchase from one of the affiliate links included in this post. Local store prices may vary from those displayed. Sunrun is bringing its home solar and Brightbox battery service to more Home Depot stores across the United States. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. One more thing! Although weve already talked a bit about how to clean your solar panels, today were going to dive in and look more closely at the solar panel cleaning tools and why they are important. This water functionality enhances the cleaning experience by ensuring that dirt is not only lifted and brushed away, but washed away with clean, fresh water, too. It allows the user to connect the pole to a garden hose so that water can be sprayed out of the brush head for cleaning. What is Ideal for a Small Solar Power System: Kits or DIY? However, any soap should be used sparingly and with caution. What materials is the cleaning kit youre looking at made of? For more informationabout going solar with Sunrun and The Home Depot click here. The difference tends to come from functionality and materials used, and whilst not always true, in this case a little more cash does seem to buy you a more quality product. Its safest to clean solar panels from the ground with extension tools while wearing gloves. Especially in dry climates or near construction or industrial sites, relying on rain to keep panels clean may not be enough. If a manufacturer isnt offering their customers a warranty, chances are the product isnt going to last very long before breaking or malfunctioning. The reach range of solar panel cleaning products varies greatly, from just 4-6ft, to 6.5-20ft.
2000-2022 Home Depot. Those same deposits can form on the cars paint and lead to a cloudy finish! Weve talked about how to remove snow before, but getting rid of snow certainly qualifies as a project that would require some solar panel cleaning tools! We awarded this our best in Brush-Only category. You probably remember the moment that your shiny new solar panels arrived at your home and were installed on your roof. With three included squeegee heads and solid customer reviews, this is a great brush-only choice.
Keep in mind that sap, smog, pollen, bird droppings, and other things that can greatly decrease the efficiency of your panels accumulate quickly, and require more regular, deeper cleaning than you can depend upon from rain alone. In general, solar panels require little cleaning and maintenance in areas that receive regular precipitation. We can clean your solar carports or other solar panel systems overnight when your facilities arent busy. Based on the specifics of the solar system, its location, and environmental factors, solar panels are rated for a solar output within a specific range of watts. Louisville Ladder Pro Top Fiberglass Extension Ladder 28-foot. This will ruin the efficiency of the solar system and invite future problems. Leaves, bird poop, and dust accumulate on solar panels. If a hose has a high-pressure attachment, it should be removed before solar panel cleaning. For a standard one-story rooftop, this 12.5-foot ladder should provide a more convenient, economical option. Its the length of the pole which you need to consider. Renew Economy reports that solar panels generally cost up to $15- $20 each to clean, which means the annual cleaning of an average-sized 2KW solar PV system with 10 panels could cost around $330, depending on your location and service provider. This is why solar panels are most often set up in sunnier locations. If you already use catch basins to collect rain water, purchasing a small pump to attach to your flow-through brush head might work well for your needs. Our 3 stage filtered pure water is fed through an extension pole with a brush made specifically for solarpanel cleaning and other high quality glass.
solar panels can produce high amounts of electricity, can last many years without requiring replacement parts, How to Choose a Solar Panel Cleaning Tool, 5. Once this is done, brush off any loose dust and debris from your panels. The accessibility of your panels will be the biggest factor affecting your decision to buy a panel cleaning kit. As an alternative to purchasing a deionizing system, you might want to consider using rainwater or another water source with naturally softer water. In this list, we discuss our top five choices for solar panel cleaning tools, examining their features, pros, and cons. Brushes and poles are going to be your bread and butter solar panel cleaning tools. He also guaranteed that I would see improvement in the amount of energy the panels generate. Solar power has been increasing in popularity exponentially over the past few years. If you do decide that you need some extra filtering then purchasing a standalone filter might be useful. Remember, when in doubt consult with professionals (and please understand this information is provided for informational value only, and is not intended to be taken as advice). Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. Do the math to see what kind of financial sense cleaning makes and also to see how often it would be worthwhile to clean them. Sunrun representatives will be available in Home Depot locations to answer questions about solar and help Home Depot customers set up a home or phone consultation with a Sunrun sales professional. The aluminum handle is sturdy and can telescope to reach closer or further, depending upon the application. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you. If you can safely reach your solar panels from the ground, then you can give them a clean yourself. This telescoping brush setup is very sleek and effective. Super fast, super friendly, and does a very good job. Some of these tools can be connected to a hose or outdoor faucet so that you can pump water through the pole and out at the brush end to enhance the tools cleaning potential.
Let us know in the comments! To get the most out of a professional solar panel cleaning service, homeowners can begin a mock version of the cleaning process. Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC is a veteran owned and operated solar panel cleaning company. I highly recommend hiring Adam with Premier Solar Cleaning. We review the best solar panel cleaning pools available today, with feature breakdowns, pros, cons, and reviews. Without a long enough extension pole, reaching solar panels to brush will require an extension ladder. Need Help? A:To some extent, yes. A small amount of gentle, non-abrasive soap mixed with one part vinegar and eight parts water is an excellent homemade solution for cleaning the glass on solar panels. Does the cleaning tool come with a hose, or even the ability to be attached to an existing hose or outdoor faucet? Well examine their main features, reviews, pros, and cons.
Hoses and/or faucets may usually be screwed onto the handle-end of the solar panel cleaning tool, from which they send water up the telescoping pole to spray out of holes in the brush end. Suppose the solar panels are too high to reach comfortably with tools or are set in a steep or slippery location. Even cleaning products deemed safe for use on solar panels can be abrasive. Most of the tools on this list are compatible with hoses and outdoor faucets, but thats not the case for every item reviewed here. Its our hope that by the end of this article youll feel ready to make an informed decision and an educated purchase. Try to get the exact items you need for your unique situation and take a few notes about the before and after gains. They will allow you to reach up onto the roof from the ground and maintain a high level of safety. Thankfully, these tools tend to be pretty affordable, especially in relation to the panels. We provide Commercial Solar Cleaning, Efficiency Checks, and Repair Consultations; as well as Residential Solar Cleaning. The handle of solar panel cleaning brushes tends to be made of material which makes it easy to grip, usually some sort of foam or plastic. A:Unfortunately, no. Premier Service is a top tier quarterly package that provides you with thebest value AND the highest power output! Since solar panels are often set on roofs or high areas, cleaning solar panels requires careful attention to safety. Consent for calls & texts is optional. This kit will include the above items plus a squeegee, drying head, additional adapters, and different pole options. Schedule your solar panel cleaning today! Keeping your panels clean and operating at maximum efficiency saves you money and by signing up for regular solar panel cleaning with Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC. The Ulihome scrubber is another model with a micro-fiber scrubber, making it ideal for glass. Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. Some posts may contain affiliate links. Find out what the best solar panel cleaning tools are for your needs first so that you dont go whole-hog without considering what it is you really need. Whilst small variations do exist from product to product, there are some standard parts and processes which well now discuss. The pole can be extended up to 12 feet in length, giving it a maximum total reach of about 17 feet. Because solar panels create usable energy by capturing sunlight, giving them more sunlight will increase their solar output, or how much power they produce. Dont forget that your unique situation will govern how little, or how much, that you will need to purchase to clean your panels. Find Out Now, Settings / Do not sell my personal information. The high end of that spectrum would be reserved for areas with frequent dust storms and very little rainfall to help clean the panels naturally, but the reality is that there will be some loss of power whenever something is getting in between the sun and the solar cell. A product with a warranty (whether 1-year or lifetime) is without doubt more trustworthy than one without.
Use a hose with a suitable nozzle that gets the water stream to the tops of your panels. Time required: 20 minutes to 1 hour Difficulty: Beginner Estimated cost: $40$75 (when supplies are first needed).
The EQUIPMAXX water-fed pole is made from aerospace-grade aluminium, and has sturdy brass fittings allowing you to securely attach your outdoor faucet or hose, with which you can then wash, brush and clean your panels in one. Manufacturer specifications will explain how to make sure electrical currentsboth produced by the panel and going into the homeare turned off. Most come in at under $50, with still others as cheap as $25-30. I called Adam last minute and had him come out to clean my 13 panels and he showed up within 30 minutes.
The poles are made of a wide range of materials, all lightweight, with the very best being made from aerospace-quality aluminium (strong and light). Water is the best solar panel cleaner, especially if its deionized or distilled.
Rain can wash away much of the dirt and debris that might block a homes solar panels from absorbing the maximum amount of sunlight. Now that you know what components go into the construction of solar panel cleaning brushes, lets answer a few questions you need to consider before purchasing one. Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC. Wear work gloves to keep your hands clean and safe. As we stated earlier, cleaning tools for solar panels tend to have telescoping poles of varying lengths. Have your panels inspected by a reputable solar specialist before getting your panels cleaned. However, grime can still build up over time. It is also important to remember that some cleaners can leave a residue. Such cleaning tools make the scrubbing and washing of hard-to-reach and roof-mounted solar panels much, much easier, whilst those without require either a dry-clean or manually retracting and dipping the brush head time after time until the panels are clean. For cleaning solar panels, you want to find a quality brush head that has two important features: As far as specific items go, there are options to suit any needs and budgets. Our pigeon proofing/protective barriers protectyourhome. Does Your House Qualify for Solar? The pole onto which the brush head is attached is telescoping, meaning that it can be extended up to a maximum reach, clipped into place there (so that it is secure), and then retracted for storage or for more accessible cleans. Typically used for washing windows, this pole scrubber is perfect for solar panels as well. Environmentally friendly. Sunruns solar service and Brightbox give people the freedom to create their own energy, contribute to healthier communities, and support a safer, more resilient energy system for everyone, said Lynn Jurich, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, of Sunrun. Even though rain clears away some of this, it doesnt get everything and can create dirty residue when puddles evaporate.
Before you go purchasing the first snow rake you see, remember that most of these rakes were designed to be used on rooftops, not solar panels. Solar Panels Maintenance: Is It Really Necessary? If you do not currently own a ladder and want to make sure that you get something that will work well for your project, use Home Depots handy ladder measurement graphic to be sure that you are working safe and purchasing the most economical option.
For those of you that like a complete kit package, the same company offers a whole setup meant specifically for solar panel cleaning for under $300. These have more supportive grip than a hose on its own. The services provided to you on this site are not provided by Ford Motor Company, but rather by Sunrun, 225 Bush St #1400, San Francisco, CA, 94104, an independent company. A dirty solar panel may be producing 15-25% less electricity than a clean one. Maybe it's time to call in a solar energy pro. Because of the potential danger involved, it would be best to consider options that allow you to clean from the ground first and avoid walking on the roof altogether! Using just clean water and your soft brush with sponge and squeegee functions, remove any stubborn grime and residue. This can be done from the ground if the soft brush is attached to a telescopic extension pole with a threaded tip or hook. We put a lot of work into designing, researching, writing, editing and reviewing these articles. Standard hardware supplies can be used for a solar panel cleaning project, but safety considerations are critical. The built-in squeegee allows you to easily wipe water away, though note that this brush does not enable to user to pump water directly through it, as do other competitor products. This is a Veteran owned and operated company that I am very happy to recommend and support. Customers may also access information about Sunruns solar-as-a-service and Brightbox home battery offerings or set up a consultation through www.homedepot.com. The pole extends up to 20 feet, though even without extending it is still a good 6.5 feet long. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Are there any tools that you wished you had from the beginning or something that you find yourself never using? Clean solar panels will have lower energy costs because they allow maximum exposure and higher solar output. Some poles can extend to 24 feet. If your panels are roof-mounted, water-compatibility is probably a good option, since you cant always rely on rain water, and it would be hard to get up there with a bucket of water yourself. The handle can extend up to 12 feet long, giving it a reach of approximately 20-feet when used from a standing position. Finding a model with some padding is essential. If you need to climb onto the roof, take safety precautions like wearing a hard hat and harness. You can opt out anytime. So your daytime traffic never even knows we were there. You wont need a huge pump to get the job done because we arent relying on the pressure to clean the panels, but rather the scrubbing action. Americans are united in their desire for clean, renewable energy. Copyright 2022 UnderstandSolar.com. Rinse with clan water and dry with the squeegee. Only direct water on the top suface of your panels, not on the back of the panels or in the gaps between the panels and the roof. The brush end of solar panel cleaning tools holds a soft-bristled brush, sometimes with two layers of brushes (one for lifting dirt, one for brushing it away). If a garden hose doesnt allow for enough spraying control, a telescopic hose wand may help.
By Jacqueline Medina | Updated Apr 7, 2022 12:55 PM. Solar panels must be turned off before cleaning, and the underside should never be touched. This design is better for close range application but is durable and simple to use, and relatively affordable. However, if the panels are more easily accessible, then you may feel you only need a dry brush. Careful, detailed visual inspection of your solar panel equipment prevents panel malfunction and keeps your solar energy system performing with high efficiency. Debris should be removed with gentle brushing from a soft-bristled tool to start the cleaning process.
The head can be tilted and locked into place to achieve otherwise difficult cleaning angles. A:This depends upon the accessibility of your panels. Home Solar Equipment Solar Panel Cleaning Tools. Ohuhu 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder. The amount generated depends on the absorption of sunlight, so if solar panels are dirty, theyre not as efficientor cost-effectiveas they can be. Check with your manufacturers recommendations and restrictions before deciding to use a cleaner, and always thoroughly rinse your panels after cleaning. The most cost-effective way to increase the efficiency of your solar electricity system is to have regular cleanings and inspections performed. A hard hat, ladder support, and harness are recommended for any homeowner who plans to work on a roof instead of from the ground. The good news is that if you have soft water, then you shouldnt need to worry too much about this step but use your own situation to help determine your needs. This happens because those minerals, mostly calcium, will not evaporate with your rinse water and instead will dry into a scale on the surface of your solar panels. Below we have covered some of the types of cleaning tools that you may want to consider, including some of our top picks for the best solar panel cleaning tools for 2018. A:A general recommendation is about every three months, however, if you have severe rain, smog, wind, or snow; it might be a better idea to clean them more often, perhaps once a month. You also agree to our Terms of Service. Based on your particular needs, one-time cleaning and monthly maintenance programs are available. These little guys come in handy in many other projects as well so its highly possible that youll get more out of this purchase than simply an addition to your solar panel cleaning tools. Is it possible to use cleaning products directly through the brush? Another important aspect to consider is safety. The bristles are designed to be soft enough that theyre not liable to scratch the surface of your expensive solar panels (obviously an important feature). Be sure to suit up in a safety harness to ensure that your first slip wont be your last! When maintained properly, solar panels can produce high amounts of electricity without damaging the environment, whilst saving you money year-in, year-out, for many years to come. As such, they can be made from metal or even hard plastic that could scratch or break the glass on your panels if you arent careful. What has your experience been in the past? With a few easy-to-find tools, homeowners can learn how to clean solar panels safely to boost their efficiency, as well as determine when it might be best to hire professional help for solar panel cleaning. Rain can help to clear off a bulk of heavy particulates but does not effectively rid the glass of smaller dirt and grime. It varies from place to place, but some studies have shown that dust storms can decrease the power output of a solar array by 20-50%. After spraying away most of the mess, problem areas can be given extra attention with a sponge, squeegee, or soft cloth dunked into a bucket of clean water. The brush is designed to clean cars, boats, RVs, and other items, but works great for cleaningsolar panels. Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), Ammonia-free formula removes dirt without smearing or streaking, Active ingredients help reduce surface tension on solar panels, Concentrated liquid surfaces thoroughly to improve efficiency. Solar panels are electrical equipment and should not be cleaned while active. Hard water (mineral rich) can leave deposits when it dries. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydneys many bookstores. Depending on how often you intend to clean your panels, and how dirty they tend to get, these are important considerations to make. Time to make a switch to eco-friendly and cost-effective solar rain barrel pumps. Please consider supporting us through making a purchase from one of the affiliate links included in this post. Local store prices may vary from those displayed. Sunrun is bringing its home solar and Brightbox battery service to more Home Depot stores across the United States. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. One more thing! Although weve already talked a bit about how to clean your solar panels, today were going to dive in and look more closely at the solar panel cleaning tools and why they are important. This water functionality enhances the cleaning experience by ensuring that dirt is not only lifted and brushed away, but washed away with clean, fresh water, too. It allows the user to connect the pole to a garden hose so that water can be sprayed out of the brush head for cleaning. What is Ideal for a Small Solar Power System: Kits or DIY? However, any soap should be used sparingly and with caution. What materials is the cleaning kit youre looking at made of? For more informationabout going solar with Sunrun and The Home Depot click here. The difference tends to come from functionality and materials used, and whilst not always true, in this case a little more cash does seem to buy you a more quality product. Its safest to clean solar panels from the ground with extension tools while wearing gloves. Especially in dry climates or near construction or industrial sites, relying on rain to keep panels clean may not be enough. If a manufacturer isnt offering their customers a warranty, chances are the product isnt going to last very long before breaking or malfunctioning. The reach range of solar panel cleaning products varies greatly, from just 4-6ft, to 6.5-20ft.
2000-2022 Home Depot. Those same deposits can form on the cars paint and lead to a cloudy finish! Weve talked about how to remove snow before, but getting rid of snow certainly qualifies as a project that would require some solar panel cleaning tools! We awarded this our best in Brush-Only category. You probably remember the moment that your shiny new solar panels arrived at your home and were installed on your roof. With three included squeegee heads and solid customer reviews, this is a great brush-only choice.
Keep in mind that sap, smog, pollen, bird droppings, and other things that can greatly decrease the efficiency of your panels accumulate quickly, and require more regular, deeper cleaning than you can depend upon from rain alone. In general, solar panels require little cleaning and maintenance in areas that receive regular precipitation. We can clean your solar carports or other solar panel systems overnight when your facilities arent busy. Based on the specifics of the solar system, its location, and environmental factors, solar panels are rated for a solar output within a specific range of watts. Louisville Ladder Pro Top Fiberglass Extension Ladder 28-foot. This will ruin the efficiency of the solar system and invite future problems. Leaves, bird poop, and dust accumulate on solar panels. If a hose has a high-pressure attachment, it should be removed before solar panel cleaning. For a standard one-story rooftop, this 12.5-foot ladder should provide a more convenient, economical option. Its the length of the pole which you need to consider. Renew Economy reports that solar panels generally cost up to $15- $20 each to clean, which means the annual cleaning of an average-sized 2KW solar PV system with 10 panels could cost around $330, depending on your location and service provider. This is why solar panels are most often set up in sunnier locations. If you already use catch basins to collect rain water, purchasing a small pump to attach to your flow-through brush head might work well for your needs. Our 3 stage filtered pure water is fed through an extension pole with a brush made specifically for solarpanel cleaning and other high quality glass.
solar panels can produce high amounts of electricity, can last many years without requiring replacement parts, How to Choose a Solar Panel Cleaning Tool, 5. Once this is done, brush off any loose dust and debris from your panels. The accessibility of your panels will be the biggest factor affecting your decision to buy a panel cleaning kit. As an alternative to purchasing a deionizing system, you might want to consider using rainwater or another water source with naturally softer water. In this list, we discuss our top five choices for solar panel cleaning tools, examining their features, pros, and cons. Brushes and poles are going to be your bread and butter solar panel cleaning tools. He also guaranteed that I would see improvement in the amount of energy the panels generate. Solar power has been increasing in popularity exponentially over the past few years. If you do decide that you need some extra filtering then purchasing a standalone filter might be useful. Remember, when in doubt consult with professionals (and please understand this information is provided for informational value only, and is not intended to be taken as advice). Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. Do the math to see what kind of financial sense cleaning makes and also to see how often it would be worthwhile to clean them. Sunrun representatives will be available in Home Depot locations to answer questions about solar and help Home Depot customers set up a home or phone consultation with a Sunrun sales professional. The aluminum handle is sturdy and can telescope to reach closer or further, depending upon the application. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you. If you can safely reach your solar panels from the ground, then you can give them a clean yourself. This telescoping brush setup is very sleek and effective. Super fast, super friendly, and does a very good job. Some of these tools can be connected to a hose or outdoor faucet so that you can pump water through the pole and out at the brush end to enhance the tools cleaning potential.
Let us know in the comments! To get the most out of a professional solar panel cleaning service, homeowners can begin a mock version of the cleaning process. Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC is a veteran owned and operated solar panel cleaning company. I highly recommend hiring Adam with Premier Solar Cleaning. We review the best solar panel cleaning pools available today, with feature breakdowns, pros, cons, and reviews. Without a long enough extension pole, reaching solar panels to brush will require an extension ladder. Need Help? A:To some extent, yes. A small amount of gentle, non-abrasive soap mixed with one part vinegar and eight parts water is an excellent homemade solution for cleaning the glass on solar panels. Does the cleaning tool come with a hose, or even the ability to be attached to an existing hose or outdoor faucet? Well examine their main features, reviews, pros, and cons.
Hoses and/or faucets may usually be screwed onto the handle-end of the solar panel cleaning tool, from which they send water up the telescoping pole to spray out of holes in the brush end. Suppose the solar panels are too high to reach comfortably with tools or are set in a steep or slippery location. Even cleaning products deemed safe for use on solar panels can be abrasive. Most of the tools on this list are compatible with hoses and outdoor faucets, but thats not the case for every item reviewed here. Its our hope that by the end of this article youll feel ready to make an informed decision and an educated purchase. Try to get the exact items you need for your unique situation and take a few notes about the before and after gains. They will allow you to reach up onto the roof from the ground and maintain a high level of safety. Thankfully, these tools tend to be pretty affordable, especially in relation to the panels. We provide Commercial Solar Cleaning, Efficiency Checks, and Repair Consultations; as well as Residential Solar Cleaning. The handle of solar panel cleaning brushes tends to be made of material which makes it easy to grip, usually some sort of foam or plastic. A:Unfortunately, no. Premier Service is a top tier quarterly package that provides you with thebest value AND the highest power output! Since solar panels are often set on roofs or high areas, cleaning solar panels requires careful attention to safety. Consent for calls & texts is optional. This kit will include the above items plus a squeegee, drying head, additional adapters, and different pole options. Schedule your solar panel cleaning today! Keeping your panels clean and operating at maximum efficiency saves you money and by signing up for regular solar panel cleaning with Premier Solar Cleaning, LLC. The Ulihome scrubber is another model with a micro-fiber scrubber, making it ideal for glass. Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. Some posts may contain affiliate links. Find out what the best solar panel cleaning tools are for your needs first so that you dont go whole-hog without considering what it is you really need. Whilst small variations do exist from product to product, there are some standard parts and processes which well now discuss. The pole can be extended up to 12 feet in length, giving it a maximum total reach of about 17 feet. Because solar panels create usable energy by capturing sunlight, giving them more sunlight will increase their solar output, or how much power they produce. Dont forget that your unique situation will govern how little, or how much, that you will need to purchase to clean your panels. Find Out Now, Settings / Do not sell my personal information. The high end of that spectrum would be reserved for areas with frequent dust storms and very little rainfall to help clean the panels naturally, but the reality is that there will be some loss of power whenever something is getting in between the sun and the solar cell. A product with a warranty (whether 1-year or lifetime) is without doubt more trustworthy than one without.