Solar panels are a fantastic investment for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. However, just like any other system in or around your home, they require proper maintenance — and cleaning is a crucial part of that. But when it comes to cleaning solar panels, it’s not just about getting the dirt off. There are serious risks involved, and ensuring that the process is done safely is essential to both your safety and the longevity of your system.
In this article, we’ll walk through the complexities of safely cleaning solar panels, why it’s difficult to know if a system is faulty, and why professional cleaning should always be done with caution.
Why Cleaning Solar Panels Isn’t as Simple as It Seems
At first glance, cleaning solar panels might seem straightforward. However, there are several factors that make it much more complex than simply wiping them down. These panels are part of an electrical system that is live whenever the sun is shining. And while cleaning the panels from a distance using a water-fed pole sounds like a safe option, it requires careful planning and understanding of the associated risks.
The Risk of Electrical Shock
The biggest concern when cleaning solar panels is the risk of electrical shock. Solar panels operate on direct current (DC), which is different from the alternating current (AC) most homes use. Even though the power output is generally lower on a typical residential system, it can still present a danger if there is a fault in the system. When sunlight hits the panels, they become live, and even after the inverter has been turned off, the panels may still carry electricity, especially if there’s any issue with the system.
This makes it incredibly difficult to know if a system is 100% safe to clean without specialised testing. Simply put, if something goes wrong, it could be too late by the time you realise it. As a result, cleaners must take multiple steps to mitigate risks — from pre-cleaning inspections to ensuring they have the proper equipment, including non-conductive poles and PPE like class 0-rated gloves and boots.
Why It’s Difficult to Know If a System is Faulty
Many homeowners don’t realise that faults in their solar panels are not always immediately visible. A small crack in the glass, for example, could lead to an internal short circuit. These issues may not show up in the system’s performance unless checked with the right tools. This means that even with a visual inspection, there might still be a risk that the system is faulty.
This is why thermal imaging can be so crucial. A properly calibrated thermal camera can highlight any hot spots or temperature anomalies in the system, which could indicate that something is wrong — but even then, it’s not a guaranteed fix. Thermal imaging provides an extra layer of security, but it can’t replace a professional electrical inspection. The complexity of diagnosing electrical faults means that homeowners are often unaware of issues until they become more significant.
The Challenges of Safe Cleaning
When cleaning solar panels, it’s important to stay at a safe distance from the panels themselves. This is why many professional cleaning services use fibreglass water-fed poles to clean from afar, ensuring that the cleaner never directly touches the panels. But this still doesn’t eliminate the risk.
Working on a roof or ladder, or from an elevated position, means that cleaners must also be aware of working at heightrisks. In Wiltshire, where weather conditions can change quickly, wet or windy weather introduces additional hazards. Even with the right PPE, it’s essential to avoid working in rainy or wet conditions, as water can compromise the effectiveness of electrical insulation (such as gloves and boots). Wet conditions also increase the risk of slipping or losing control of equipment.
The Critical Role of PPE
Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is a must for anyone cleaning solar panels. Gloves rated to Class 0 provide protection against the electrical hazards associated with solar panel systems, and dielectric boots offer additional insulation. These tools give an extra layer of protection, but they’re not foolproof. If the gloves or boots are damaged or compromised (for example, if they become wet), their effectiveness is significantly reduced.
Additionally, checking the condition of the PPE before every job is critical. A small tear or wear in the gloves could allow current to pass through, and compromised boots could provide no protection at all. This is why it’s so important to take the time to inspect all gear, even if it means delaying work.
Proper Scheduling: Timing Is Key
Another important consideration is when to clean solar panels. It’s recommended to clean them early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t at its peak. The midday sun (typically from 10 am to 2 pm) generates the highest output from the panels, and cleaning during these hours increases the risk of interacting with a live system.
For larger systems, it’s advisable to schedule the cleaning during the cooler parts of the day, while smaller systems may be easier to manage during peak output hours. However, always proceed with caution and adapt to the specific conditions on-site.
What Homeowners Should Look for in a Solar Panel Cleaning Company
When choosing a company to clean your solar panels, it’s important to ensure that they take the necessary precautions to guarantee a safe job. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the right company:
- Health and Safety Focus
The company should have a serious commitment to health and safety. This means they follow strict procedures for both the cleaning process and the safety of their workers. They should demonstrate adherence to industry safety standards and show that their team is fully trained to handle electrical hazards. - PASMA Certification
Ensure the company has PASMA certification, which ensures they are qualified to work safely with mobile access towers. This is especially important if the cleaning company needs to access your roof or use elevated platforms to reach your panels. - Electrical Awareness Certification
The company should have team members with electrical awareness training. This ensures that they understand the risks involved with working around live electrical systems and know how to handle equipment safely in proximity to solar panels. - Proven Safe Processes
The company should outline a clear process for cleaning solar panels safely, including pre-cleaning inspections(such as visual checks for damage, thermal imaging, and weather assessments) and proper PPE use. They should use fibreglass water-fed poles to minimise contact with panels, ensuring no conductive tools are used in the cleaning process. - Comprehensive Insurance
Make sure the company carries the appropriate level of insurance to cover any unforeseen incidents that may occur during the cleaning process. This is an indicator of their professionalism and commitment to safety.
By choosing a company that prioritises these factors, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your solar panel cleaning is being done with the highest safety standards in place.
Conclusion: Safety First
Cleaning solar panels is not a task to be taken lightly. Even with the best equipment, PPE, and proper planning, the electrical hazards are real, and the challenges of diagnosing faulty systems complicate the situation. For homeowners in Wiltshire, it’s crucial to hire a professional team that is trained and understands the risks involved. By taking the proper steps — including pre-cleaning inspections, correct equipment use, and timing — solar panel cleaning can be done safely, ensuring that your system stays in top condition without compromising safety.
If you’re considering having your panels cleaned, don’t hesitate to contact a professional team who understands the complexities of solar panel maintenance. Ensuring your panels are cleaned safely can help maintain the integrity of your system and prolong its lifespan.
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