Did you know solar panels can lose up to 20 percent of their efficiency when dirty? Cleaning is one way to ensure a good return on investment in solar energy. However, before grabbing your cleaning supplies, you need to understand the impact cleaning can have on your solar module warranty. This article is your guide to everything you need to know about solar module cleaning and manufacturer warranties.

Understanding solar module warranty

Solar panels are durable; they can still be working after 25 years. However, manufacturers offer warranties, which may vary in length. Warranties are essential because solar panels are crucial investments and a vital part of the energy fabric. They assure level performance through the product's lifecycle to protect your return on investment (ROI).

Solar panel warranties are divided into product and performance or power warranties. The former pertains to the equipment and usually assures it will function for at least ten years without failure. The latter typically guarantees that the PV panels will produce electricity at least 90 percent efficiency for ten years and 80 percent for 25 years.

With technological advances, solar panel manufacturers can offer more extended warranties, with companies like Silfab offering 30 years and Maxeon offering up to 40 years.

You can come across rankings of warranties by solar panel production companies. However, it should be noted that solar products from the same brand may have different warranty terms.

Importance of cleaning for solar panel efficiency

While the manufacturers offer performance warranties, solar farm operators must ensure their investments give the maximum return. This is where cleaning comes in.

Solar panels degrade with time, reducing the amount of power they can produce. However, another factor that affects efficiency is how clean they are. When dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris accumulate on PV panels and block some of the sunlight striking them, they can cause a production loss of up to 20 percent, although this depends on factors like location and the type of dirt and debris.

Apart from the loss of revenue from reduced energy production, dirty panels can affect longevity due to scratches and hotspots.

Cleaning the panels is essential to keeping them in good shape. However, when cleaning your PV panels, you must consider the manufacturer's warranty.

Impact of cleaning on solar module warranties

Solar panel manufacturers have much to say about cleaning PV panels and warranties. We analyzed the warranties provided by popular solar panel makers (including Jinko Solar, Axter, Yingli Solar, Panasonic, Suntech, Canadian Solar, Sharp, and Trina Solar), and here are the main points:

Conditions that can void your solar panel warranty

A common theme is that your warranty can be voided by using improper cleaning methods, including unauthorized chemicals or abrasive tools. These can cause micro-cracks or thermal stress.

Environmental factors can also affect your warranty. For example, proximity to a salty or highly polluted environment can lead to a higher frequency of cleaning.

Failure to clean your PV modules can also invalidate your solar module warranty.

Proscribed cleaning methods

• High-pressure washers or jet systems might effectively and quickly clean your solar panels. However, they can cause micro-cracks in the glass, leading to severe damage and voiding your warranty.

• Manufacturers also forbid abrasive tools and aggressive chemicals, such as acids, alkalis, or high-concentration alcohol, which can scratch and damage the panel's surface.

• Manufacturers also frown on cleaning solar panels when the daily temperature is the highest or using water whose temperature is different from the panels because these can lead to thermal stress and possible damage.

Recommended cleaning practices

Most of the manufacturers recommend cleaning with soft brushes, sponges, or microfiber clothes to prevent scratching the panels. Mild detergents can generally be used.

The warranties also suggest cleaning your panels early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the panels' temperature has dropped. Some manufacturers also recommend the frequency of cleaning, especially in dusty areas.

The warranties also often include guidelines for removing tougher stains like bird droppings, grease, and resins. The recommended cleaning agents include low-concentrated isopropyl alcohol.

Cleaning practices that require leaning on the modules or applying too much pressure can also void the warranty.

Solar module cleaning safety precautions

Cleaning solar panels can be hazardous, so manufacturers include safety precautions. For example, nearly all the warranties analyzed emphasize the risk of electrocution. They caution against cleaning PV panels with damaged glass or exposed wiring and discourage applying water directly to electrical connections.

Solar manufacturers also recommend that cleaning be done only by qualified personnel to reduce the risk of injuries and damage to the modules.

It is important to note that there are some variations in the warranties from different brands. Therefore, following the instructions provided by your solar panel manufacturer tailored to your specific model is essential.

However, the frequency of cleaning can be significantly reduced by applying solutions that make the panels self-cleaning. For example, a coating of AirDefender's solar panel surface solution helps harness the power of rain and wind to keep the panels clean, avoiding the risk of damage and loss of warranty. Contact us today to learn how our solution can boost the efficiency of your solar energy production.

Conclusion

Cleaning your solar panels is essential to keep them working optimally and last as long as possible. However, improper cleaning methods can damage the panels and void the warranty. By sticking to the manufacturer's guidelines and taking proper precautions, your panels will work efficiently, protecting your investment.