Solar power is a great addition to any home. However, like anything else, they need regular maintenance to keep up their performance. That raises the question: should you be cleaning the panels yourself or hiring a professional service? And how do you best hire a solar panel cleaning service? Let’s dive into the answers.
Why Hire a Professional Service?
Cleaning your solar panels isn’t hard in itself. At the same time, solar panels are delicate, and without the right tools or know-how, you run the risk of damaging them. Also, most residential solar panels are on the roof, which poses a personal risk, too.
A professional cleaning service that specializes in solar panel cleaning has the experience and equipment to do the job correctly and safely. Studies show that clean solar panels can produce up to 25% more electricity than their dirt-laden counterparts, so hiring professionals can be an investment that pays off in the long run.
Understanding Your Needs
Before making a decision between cleaning yourself or hiring a service, it’s crucial to consider your circumstances. The frequency of cleaning largely depends on how dirty they get. This differs per location of your panels, the local climate, and levels of airborne dust and debris. If you live in a dusty area or have high bird activity, you may need more frequent cleanings. It’s also worth noting that panels installed at a steeper angle tend to self-clean more effectively when it rains.
Finding Potential Services
If you’re leaning towards hiring a professional, the next step is to find potential services. You can start by conducting an internet search for local businesses, checking out online directories, or even asking for referrals from neighbors who also have solar panels.
What to Look for in a Solar Panel Cleaning Service
When choosing a cleaning service, there are a few key things to look for. First off, ensure they have relevant experience and positive customer reviews. Look for a company that uses safe, approved methods of cleaning and has trained professionals. You might find companies that offer extra services, like system checks and bird proofing, which can add value to the deal.
Most companies don’t specialize solely in solar panel cleaning, but offer this as an additional service on top of standard panel installation of exterior home cleaning. There are even solar panel installers who offer free cleaning (for a limited time) with their installation.
Price and Value
The cost of solar panel cleaning services can vary depending on the size of your solar system and its location. While it might be tempting to go with the cheapest option, remember that quality service can provide better value in the long run. Also, you might be able to sign up for a 12-month contract with quarterly cleaning which could lower the per-cleaning cost. A well-maintained solar system produces more electricity and lasts longer, saving you more money over time.
Insurance and Licensing
Ensure that the cleaning service you choose is licensed and insured. This offers protection against potential damages or injuries that could occur during the cleaning process. Any reputable company should be able to provide proof of insurance upon request.
Warranty Considerations
Be aware that certain cleaning procedures might void the warranty on your solar panels. Always check with your solar panel manufacturer or provider, as well as the cleaning service, to ensure the cleaning process complies with warranty conditions. Here are the cleaning guidelines for the REC panels I have installed on my home
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Solar Panel Cleaning Service
Before finalizing a cleaning service, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Ask about their training procedures, the cleaning methods they use, how they ensure safety, and how they handle potential damage to your property or the panels.
Making the Final Decision
When making your final decision, weigh the cost against the service quality and consider the company’s professionalism and responsiveness. Remember, maintaining your solar panels is about preserving and enhancing their efficiency over the years.
Conclusion
If you don’t have time to clean your own solar panels (or it’s too dangerous), hiring a professional service is a good option. Cleaning is part of maintaining your solar panels and crucial in owning a solar-powered home. Whether you choose to take the DIY route or hire a professional cleaning service, it’s all about making sure your panels keep delivering. Take the time to do your research, weigh your options, and make the decision that’s right for you.