Caring For Solar Panels That Are Foggy

Should i clean the snow off my solar panels for production.

Caring for solar panels that are foggy.

Cleaning a cloudy solar panel system is as easy as cleaning a glass window. Cleaning the solar panel is quick and easy. Most solar panels are made of silicon and glass. Unless you have severe and consistent snowfall your panels will not be affected.

However the capacity will be slightly lower. Applying a small amount of dish soap to the surface of the solar panel and using a damp cloth might help to remove cloudiness. Dirty panels cannot absorb the energy as efficiently and will have a much reduced performance level. Clear lights allow more sunlight in for charging and shine brighter at night.

Not only do your solar panels keep working during cloudy months the rain takes care of the maintenance for you. Usually it s really that simple. So fresh and so clean. Think of it this way.

Currently most solar panels will work at approximately 50 efficiency during foggy conditions. The rain should be sufficient to clear off any dust and dirt that has accumulated on your panels. Even with a roof rake doing so may void your solar panel warranty or worse you could hurt yourself. It is recommended to check the panels.

They should be cleaned once every six months to ensure proper solar absorption. Fix that cloudy plastic covering the solar cells by coating it with a thin layer of clear nail polish or a spray on clear lacquer. Solar panels work by harnessing sunlight. The clear plastic housing protects the solar cell but is exposed to the elements and ultraviolet damage from the sun.

Restore clarity to your solar lights by removing a thin layer of plastic to remove the cloudiness on the light. As solar panels have no moving parts the main area of maintenance is to keep them clean. Cover the areas surrounding the plastic either the housing for the cells or the lid of a light with a built in solar panel with painter s tape before applying the chosen clear coat material. If you get a good downpour every few months don t even bother busting out the extendo squeegee.

The most effective way to clean your solar panels is with a hose and a bucket of soapy water. Most solar panel providers will recommend that you clean your solar panels with water and a hose. Even in low light or foggy conditions the panels are able to capture the sun s energy. Essentially in the same manner you would wash your car at home.

Brush off any loose debris with a damp paper towel then proceed to gently wipe the surface of the panel to remove any cloudy buildup. When solar panels become cloudy or dirty they can become less efficient and in some cases decrease power consumption by 30 percent. Because you don t want to scratch the panels in any way it s best to use just water and a non abrasive sponge to apply soapy water. Especially during peak dry periods when dust builds up may be higher.