According to the latest study, it has been reported that solar panels lose around 30%of power if not cleaned properly. Due to the accumulation of dust, the efficiency of solar modules and panels in terms of power gets reduced by up to 60%. Additionally, the researchers inferred that the daily energy loss caused by dust deposited on panels is 4.4% over a year.
To conclude Dirty Panels = Power Loss. The Disadvantages of not cleaning your solar panels are as follows:
Lose efficiency and lifespan
Hampers overall system performance
Permanent Module staining in certain cases
Low return on investment
Affects limited warranty
You might say that you clean your solar panels regularly by yourself and that is enough. Although self-cleaning ensures dust cleaning but there is always a risk of damage and electric shock. It also reduces mineral residue that blocks sun rays from reaching the cells. So if the output of one cell is shaded, it eventually shades the entire panel in the series. Therefore, if you want to maximize your output it is of utmost importance to get your solar panels cleaned by experts. Following are some of the benefits you get by doing so:
Ensures maximum output
Prevents permanent module staining
Increases the life of your solar panels
Savings in time and cost
For best results and to ensure that you don't scratch your solar panels in any way, simply use water and a soft, non-abrasive brush to clean away dirt and debris.
The best time to clean your installation is early morning, late afternoon or on overcast days. If the sun is shining with all its might, the water and cleaning products you use will evaporate quickly, leaving residues which will reduce your panels' efficiency as much as dirt does.
Pressure washers are great for cleaning the exterior of your home, including the roof and gutters, but it should never be used on solar panels. Yes, their high reach and pressure makes cleaning large sections of solar panels much easier but doing so runs the risk of damaging the panels
Avoid using detergents if possible as these may streak the glass of the panel. Use of abrasive powders also risks scratching the panels. Given the nature of good quality solar panel glass, clean water and a little scrubbing with a coarse cloth covered sponge or soft brush should remove the most stubborn grime.
The only regular maintenance needed for your solar panels is cleaning and an annual inspection. Otherwise, as long as your panels are working properly, they won't need additional maintenance throughout the year.