Signs that your solar panels need cleaning include:
- Decreased energy production or efficiency: A noticeable drop in the electricity output of your solar panel system, as monitored by system monitoring tools or your energy bills, often signals dirt, dust, bird droppings, or other debris blocking sunlight from reaching the cells.
- Visible dirt, dust, bird droppings, leaves, or debris on the panels: Accumulation of grime on the panel surfaces reduces their ability to absorb sunlight. If you see a layer of dirt, spotting, or debris buildup, it’s time to clean.
- Discoloration, spots, or stains: Uneven discoloration or stains on the solar panel glass surface caused by pollution, pollen, or sticky bird droppings indicate that cleaning is needed to maintain optimal performance.
- Shading caused by debris or overhanging vegetation: Leaves, branches, or other shading objects can create shadows on panels, diminishing their output and sometimes requiring trimming of nearby trees or cleaning off debris.
- Presence of animal activity or damaged components: Bird nests or evidence of animals around panels can cause soiling and physical damage, which may necessitate cleaning and inspection.
- Reduced output after dry periods without rain: While rain can help wash away loose dirt, in dry or dusty environments panels may accumulate grime faster, leading to decreased efficiency if not cleaned regularly.
Additional signs to consider (less visible) include:
- Abnormally high panel temperature: Overheating can indicate soiling or underlying electrical problems.
- Cracks, chips, or broken glass: Physical damage can also reduce efficiency and should be checked during cleaning or inspection.
Recommendations for cleaning frequency are generally once or twice a year, but this depends on local environmental factors like dust, bird activity, and pollution. Monitoring your system’s performance regularly will help identify when cleaning is required to maintain up to 30% better efficiency.
In summary, if you observe lower-than-normal electricity generation, see dirt buildup, or notice shading and debris, your solar panels likely need cleaning to restore optimal performance and prolong their lifespan.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-signs-that-my-solar-panels-need-cleaning/
