When cleaning solar panels, it is crucial to avoid scratches, as scratches can reduce the power generation efficiency of the panels and may even cause permanent damage. The following are some precautions to avoid scratches:
First, choose the appropriate cleaning tools
Soft materials are preferred:
Clean with a soft sponge, soft brush or microfiber cloth. These materials will not scratch the surface of the solar panel.
Avoid using tools such as hard brushes, steel wool balls or sandpaper that may scratch the solar panels.
Professional cleaning tools:
Consider using cleaning tools specifically designed for solar panels. These tools usually have soft cleaning heads and appropriate handle lengths, which are easy to operate and less prone to scratches.
Second, pay attention to the cleaning methods
Gently wipe:
When cleaning, gently wipe the surface of the solar panel to avoid excessive force or rapid friction.
For stubborn stains, you can first moisten them with clean water and then gently wipe them. Avoid directly scraping them off forcefully.
Avoid using sharp objects:
Do not use sharp objects (such as nails, keys, etc.) to scrape off stains or foreign objects on the solar panels, as this can easily cause scratches.
Clean along the texture:
If the surface of the solar panel has textures or stripes, it should be cleaned in the direction of the texture, which can reduce the risk of scratches.
Third, control the intensity and frequency of cleaning
Moderate force
When cleaning, there is no need to apply excessive force because the surface of solar panels is usually smooth, and minor stains and dust can be removed by gentle wiping.
Regular cleaning
Regular cleaning of solar panels can reduce the accumulation of stains, thereby lowering the risk of scratches during cleaning. However, the cleaning frequency should not be too high either, so as not to cause unnecessary wear to the solar panels.
Fourth, consider environmental factors
Avoid cleaning in bad weather:
Do not clean solar panels in windy, sandstorm or rainy and snowy weather, as these conditions may increase the risk of scratches or affect the cleaning effect.
Choose the appropriate time:
It is best to clean in the morning or evening. At this time, the surface temperature of the solar panels is relatively low, making them less likely to be damaged due to thermal expansion and contraction. At the same time, the light is also relatively soft, which is convenient for observing the cleaning effect.
Fifth, other precautions
Wear protective equipment
During the cleaning process, protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn to prevent cleaning agents or stains from splashing into the eyes or skin.
Check the status of the solar panels:
Before cleaning, it is necessary to first check whether the solar panels have cracks, damages or other damage conditions. If there is any, it should be repaired or replaced first, and then cleaned.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines:
Solar panels of different brands and models may have different cleaning requirements and precautions. Therefore, before cleaning, one should carefully read the cleaning guidelines or instructions provided by the manufacturer and follow the suggestions therein for operation.
