Keeping Solar Panel Clean (1 Viewer)

[Stewart J]

Been on the roof of my Hymer last couple of days cleaning and waxing it in the hope waxing will slow down the gunge build up. Surprising how dirty the Solar Panel was and it got me thinking has anyone waxed theirs to slow down dirt build up?

 

[JeanLuc]

I don’t think I would try that. I just get up there every so often and wash/wipe the panel.

 

[funflair]

If Im waxing the roof I do the panels at the same time, cant see it doing any harm.

Martin

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[Basildog]

Surely rain-x or similar would actually be a better idea ?

 

[funflair]

Surely rain-x or similar would actually be a better idea ?

Would it?

Martin

 

[tacr2man]

Due to flat mounting of panels on moho , as opposed to angle in land solar, probably best answer is drive very fast in heavy rain to try and blow the dust off

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[Lenny HB]

You should never wax the panels as wax protects against UV and solar panels need UV to work. Also have you not noticed the glass on panels is a Matt finish to reduce reflected light, a gloss or waxed finish will reflect sunlight reducing the effectiveness of the panels.

 

[funflair]

I can feel a test coming on

Martin

 

[funflair]

Interesting read that says that its only the visible spectrum that converts to power so UV and IR simply cause the panel to heat up.

http://www.solarpoweristhefuture.com/what-light-wave-do-solar-panels-use.shtml

Martin

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[Steve and Denise]

Quite amazing what you can find on here that you would not normally consider.

 

[Tibbo]

Most of the advice I've read for cleaning solar panels seems to recommend just plain water to rinse off the grime and then a soft cloth and water to wash. Just try to avoid doing it in direct sunlight or when the panels are warm/hot.

 

[TinaLes]

Maybe fitting a screen washing function, and some windscreen wipers on top of the panels would be a good idea?
So good I think I will patent it, and of course it will be a very expensive option on all German vans especially, my Carthago didn't even have the fitted Radio Option! as the cost was "so prohibitive" I am told so I fitted my own higher spec regardless, just need some wiper blades and motor off a BMW I suppose, as every time that has its annual service "they needed replacing sir"
Les

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