It is always essential to keep the surface of solar PV panels cleaner to have high efficiency. Various materials are used according to the need and types of dust and dart accumulated. For example, to deal with oily stains, isopropyl alcohol can be used.For normal conditions, simple water and mild soapy solutions are best option.
The most effective way to clean your solar panels is with a hose and a bucket of soapy water. you shouldn’t use any type of high-pressure water sprayer .
Basically, manufacturers recommend cleaning with water only. However, in the literature there are solutions with surfactants:
Article Influence of cleaning using water and surfactants on the per...
As for the automatic cleaning, there is the Heliotex. I also highlight the Psclean, which is a project patented by I, Michelle and Danielle, more information:
Cleaning solar panels: Panels are generally self cleaning . However this not always true specifically in dry areas. First 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. Solar panels installed in windy and dusty areas may require more frequent inspection and cleaning. Some areas need a weekly washing, while other areas can go every other month – review your solar manufacturer’s specifications.
Each solar panel is different, so make sure to review the instructions from the solar manufacturer first before cleaning the panels; some panels are sensitive to certain chemicals, and others may have fragile components that you need to be aware of.
Inspect the solar panels on a periodic basis. Before washing, make sure that there aren’t any cracks and ensure all connections are tight. If there are damaged wires or cracks, it might be time to call an electrical technician.
Remove any debris on the solar panel. Trim back trees or plants that may be blocking the sun’s energy to the solar panels.
Fill a bucket with warm water and with a cleaning solution. Green cleaning supplies do a great job on glass and solar panels. Here’s is a simple non-toxic recipe for glass cleaner: 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon liquid non-abrasive soap or detergent, and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. In drier areas when there is water rationing – the solar panels can be cleaned fairly well using an air-hose.
Use a non-abrasive cleaning sponge or towel to wash the glass. Get the glass clean and clear as possible – don’t scratch it.
Remove remaining water with a high quality squeegee to avoid hard water mineral build up.
Use a lint free cloth to dry the edges of the panel.
There are companies that will clean solar panels for you. If you choose to use a solar panel cleaning service be sure they are insured – in case there are
You should keep in mind that each panels may have specific instructions in this regards and you have to check before applying any methods. Furthermore, in some cases there are several self-cleaning products which may be apply on the surface of panels and help the cleaning procedure.