How to Clean Solar Panels
Cleaning your solar panels regularly is important to ensure that they are performing properly. As they are exposed to the elements it is common that biological growth and contaminants may develop on the surface.
Moisture and warmth provide the perfect breeding ground for biological contaminants such as algae, fungi, and more seriously, lichen. Preventing the growth of lichen is very important for the longevity of your solar panels.
Can Algae, Fungi and Lichen Growth Affect Solar Panel Performance?
The simple answer is yes. In areas that experience rainfall and humidity especially, these contaminants can pose a risk to your solar panels.
The growth of algae and fungi can massively reduce the efficiency of your solar panels because they shade them. As we know, solar panels convert sunlight into energy, so shading the panels will limit their rate of conversion.
Not only that, but excessive build up of algae and fungi can actually damage your solar panels. Solar panels are a big investment, so looking after them is imperative.
Lichen is the most damaging to solar panels, which is an accumulation of both algae and fungi. Lichens have the capacity to corrode metal parts which causes them to malfunction. They reduce power outputs which drastically reduces power production, and can actually limit the lifespan of your solar panels.
Regular cleaning and maintenance must be accomplished in order to keep solar panels working effectively, for longer periods of time.
How to Clean Algae, Fungi and Lichen from Solar Panels
The most effective way to clean solar panels and eradicate biological growth such as algae, fungi and lichen is to use a specialist cleaning product such as GK Greener Kleener or GK Pro.
Our products have been formulated to remove biological growth quickly and efficiently. Within minutes of application the product breaks down algae, fungi and moulds over time with cycles of sun and rain.
Our GK Pro is a professional cleaning product that should be used by specialist cleaners or cleaning teams. GK Greener Kleener is an effective alternative that can be used to clean solar panels by non-professional cleaners.
How to Clean Solar Panels with GK Greener Kleener
Applying GK Greener Kleener is very simple. Dilute the product according to the severity of the growth. We recommend 2 parts water to 1 part Greener Kleener for heavy soiling, and 3 parts water to 1 part Greener Kleener for light-medium soiling.
Apply the product directly to the solar panel using either a garden sprayer or a brush and leave it to work. The formula works over time with natural weather cycles and evaporates with natural weather conditions.
Apply the product in temperatures above 8°C and allow for 24 hours without rainfall.
We recommend wearing protective clothing such as gloves and eye protection.
How to Clean Solar Panels with GK Pro
GK Pro should be used by professionals only. Conversation with your preferred GK Pro applicator will determine the right course of action for your property.
GK Pro should be applied during a dry, relatively wind free day with no likelihood of rain for at least four hours and in temperatures above 5°C.
A spray treatment with GK Pro works in conjunction with natural weather cycles of UV, to desiccate the now dead, bacterial staining while rain will remove the powdery residue.
We recommend wearing protective clothing such as gloves and eye protection.
Benefits of GK Greener Kleener and GK Pro for Solar Panel Use
Our products are an extremely effective disinfectant and cleaner that eliminates 99.9% of bacterial growth and will remove algae, mould and lichen.
The formula is free of bleach, free of caustic and acidic chemicals and will not damage the solar panels.
After initial application, further maintenance cycles will be a much shorter process, making it easy to stay on top of cleaning and maintenance.
They are safe to use around children and pets, however it is good practice to wait for the treated area to dry.
GK Greener Kleener has a pH of 6 which is virtually neutral making it safe around plants.
Plants and grass areas will not be damaged so long as you do not spray the formula directly onto them. With GK Pro we recommend covering plants and foliage with waterproof fabric or a plastic sheet before spraying.
Summary
The best way to clean solar panels and remove biological growth is to use a specialist cleaning product such as GK Pro or GK Greener Kleener. These effective products eliminate 99.9% of bacterial contaminants, increasing the lifespan of your solar panels and ensuring they perform effectively.
