Cleaning solar panels on an RV

[Trackrig]

How many of you clean your solar panels? If you do, how often? Do you just turn a hose on them or do you actually clean them?

Bill

[Lwiddis]

Hard to measure, trackrig, unless your system is in the bulk charging phase.

[pianotuna]

Trackrig wrote:
OK, for those that clean them, do you notice any performance differences afterwards? And, yes I realize that from one day to the next, the sunlight isn't going to be exactly the same.

Bill

No, but I have shade tolerant panels that are a triple junction design, and no glass. Maximum output remains at 17 amps at solar noon. The panels are from 2005.

[Trackrig]

Duplicate post

[Trackrig]

OK, for those that clean them, do you notice any performance differences afterwards? And, yes I realize that from one day to the next, the sunlight isn't going to be exactly the same.

Bill

[TurnThePage]

About twice a year for this guy. I use a ladder to get close then use squeegy with a sponge on one side, and mild detergent. They get DIRTY!

[Lwiddis]

Be careful squirting cold water on hot solar panels. I’m a weekly cleaner...early in the morning.

[jdc1]

I've had solar on my houses for over 7 years. The SoCal home I sold last year, I had to climb on the roof and brush them off 2-3 times a year. The NoCal home I own now is in a less dusty environment. I only get up there once a year. I use a soft bristle broom that has a hose attachment. Water flows through the handle and out the brush head. I will use it on the RV as needed.

[_1Flyboy]

Yes, i get on the roof and clean the solar panels every couple of weeks; dirt, dust, pollen, etc can reduce the charge to your batteries significantly! I’ve seen some solar panels completely covered !in dirt!

[pianotuna]

Hi Bill,

I wash them once per year with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution.

I wet them down and let them soak. Then I use the cloth and mild soap. Then I rinse with water.