Solar panel cleaning

[Pudsey Bear]

I'm not sure what is best to clean the panels; some of the cleaning stuff these days may harm the glass. Also, is it a good idea to use car polish on them or not? I don't feel I was getting the best out of them, even on very sunny days.

 

[Robmac]

I just use soapy water Kev then hose it off.

In the pub on Thursday I was chatting with a bloke who fits large solar arrays in fields and I asked him how they are kept clean. He told me that most are self cleaning these days.

I don't know if mine are (I suspect not) but I suppose for self cleaning they would need to be at an angle rather than flat.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

Yes, the angle will help on a house, and I dare say being black (ish), they heat up and burn a lot of the crud off that gets washed away, but these, like most MoHo ones, are pretty flat all the time.

 

[Boris7]

Like Rob I just use soapy water and hose them down.

On the house they are black and self cleaning but I wash them once a year anyway.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

What about polishing them?

 

[Boris7]

It’s not a rocket Kev

 

[Robmac]

AI view Kev;

AI Overview



Yes, you can polish solar panels if they have surface buildup like oxidation or grime that regular cleaning won't remove
, but you must use a specific plastic polish and avoid abrasive materials to prevent damage. Hand polishing is recommended to avoid overheating the surface with a power polisher.
This video demonstrates how to clean solar panels effectively:

53s




DoItYourselfDad
YouTube • 10 Sept 2022

When to polish

• When there is a layer of grime, oxidation, or film that washing alone cannot remove.
• If the panels have been exposed to harsh conditions like high heat, soot, or salt buildup.

What to use

• Specific products: Use a plastic polish designed for this purpose, such as Novus #2 (Fine scratch remover) or Plexus. Do not use general-purpose polishes.
• Application: Apply a small amount of polish and use a soft cloth for hand polishing.

What to avoid

• Abrasives: Never use abrasive scrubbers, pads, or cleaners, as they can scratch and permanently damage the panel's surface, reducing efficiency.
• Excessive pressure: Do not apply too much pressure when polishing, as this can damage the silicon cells underneath.
• Power polishers: Use a power polisher only on a very low speed setting, as high speed can cause friction and damage the panel's surface. Hand polishing is generally safer.
• Harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the panel's protective coatings.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

It’s not a rocket Kev

Silly bugger, polish helps pool water and makes it run off, the panel does have a very slight slope where it's parked

 

[Pudsey Bear]

Righty ho, that's one less job to do then.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

I asked Mr Google.


It is not recommended to polish motorhome solar panels with car polish or wax. Car polishes and waxes are designed to protect against UV rays and create a glossy, reflective finish, which is counterproductive for solar panels that need to absorb as much UV light as possible to generate energy efficiently.
Using car polish on solar panels can lead to several problems:

• Reduced Efficiency: The finish can reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of solar energy absorbed by the panel.
• Residue Buildup: Wax can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and grime, making the panels harder to clean in the long run.
• Potential Damage: Some car care products contain harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the panel's anti-reflective coating or surface, potentially voiding the manufacturer's warranty.

Recommended Cleaning Method
The safest and most effective method for cleaning motorhome solar panels involves simple, gentle techniques:

1. Shut Down the System: Always turn off your solar panel system according to the manufacturer's instructions before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards.
2. Use Plain Water or Mild Soap: In most cases, a good rinse with plain water using a hose with a soft flow is sufficient. For more stubborn dirt (like bird droppings or tree sap), use lukewarm water mixed with a small amount of mild, non-abrasive soap or dish soap.
3. Use Soft Materials: Use a soft-bristled brush, a soft sponge, or a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the panels. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or harsh scrubbers.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all soap residue is completely rinsed off with clean water, as any leftover film can leave streaks or affect performance. Using deionized or distilled water can help prevent mineral deposits/water spots, especially in hard water areas.
5. Clean During Cooler Hours: Clean the panels in the early morning or late evening when the panels are cool to avoid thermal shock (which can cause micro-cracks) and to prevent water from evaporating too quickly and leaving streaks.
6. Check Manufacturer's Guidelines: Always consult your solar panel manufacturer's instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations to ensure you don't void the warranty.

For protection against the elements, focus on keeping the panels clean rather than applying protective polishes or waxes. Specialised, pH-neutral cleaning products designed specifically for solar panels are available if needed

 

[Fazerloz]

You would be better off polishing something else.

 

[Robmac]

I asked Mr Google.


It is not recommended to polish motorhome solar panels with car polish or wax. Car polishes and waxes are designed to protect against UV rays and create a glossy, reflective finish, which is counterproductive for solar panels that need to absorb as much UV light as possible to generate energy efficiently.
Using car polish on solar panels can lead to several problems:

• Reduced Efficiency: The finish can reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of solar energy absorbed by the panel.
• Residue Buildup: Wax can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and grime, making the panels harder to clean in the long run.
• Potential Damage: Some car care products contain harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the panel's anti-reflective coating or surface, potentially voiding the manufacturer's warranty.

Recommended Cleaning Method
The safest and most effective method for cleaning motorhome solar panels involves simple, gentle techniques:

1. Shut Down the System: Always turn off your solar panel system according to the manufacturer's instructions before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards.
2. Use Plain Water or Mild Soap: In most cases, a good rinse with plain water using a hose with a soft flow is sufficient. For more stubborn dirt (like bird droppings or tree sap), use lukewarm water mixed with a small amount of mild, non-abrasive soap or dish soap.
3. Use Soft Materials: Use a soft-bristled brush, a soft sponge, or a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the panels. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or harsh scrubbers.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all soap residue is completely rinsed off with clean water, as any leftover film can leave streaks or affect performance. Using deionized or distilled water can help prevent mineral deposits/water spots, especially in hard water areas.
5. Clean During Cooler Hours: Clean the panels in the early morning or late evening when the panels are cool to avoid thermal shock (which can cause micro-cracks) and to prevent water from evaporating too quickly and leaving streaks.
6. Check Manufacturer's Guidelines: Always consult your solar panel manufacturer's instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations to ensure you don't void the warranty.

For protection against the elements, focus on keeping the panels clean rather than applying protective polishes or waxes. Specialised, pH-neutral cleaning products designed specifically for solar panels are available if needed

I hadn't considered thermal shock Kev but I will in future!

 

[Robmac]

You would be better off polishing something else.

Don't encourage him Chris, he needs his eyesight!

 

[barryd]

Never bothered cleaning panels. Can't say its made any difference. They still seem to perform the same

 

[Pudsey Bear]

You would be better off polishing something else.

I may have worn it out already.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

Never bothered cleaning panels. Can't say its made any difference. They still seem to perform the same

If you've never cleaned them, you won't know if it helps or not, will you?

 

[Fisherman]

I’m just glad Barry never started this thread, we would be on page 100 bye now, and be discussing something completely different

 

[marchie]

I'm not sure what is best to clean the panels; some of the cleaning stuff these days may harm the glass. Also, is it a good idea to use car polish on them or not? I don't feel I was getting the best out of them, even on very sunny days.

Leiffheit Extending Window Pole with microfibre cloth and clear water. Use the cloth to flick water on to prevent scratches and then dunk the cloth in a bucket of water to give a good wiping, and leave to air dry

Steve

 

[exwindsurfer]

I've never had a prob cleaning my panel.

 

[Robmac]

I've never had a prob cleaning my panel.

Nor me really Jeff.

I get Julie to do it.