During the winter months, when layers of snow fall and pile up on solar panels, the snow blocks valuable sunlight, thus reducing the efficiency of photovoltaic power generation. To combat this problem, many homes and businesses choose to use a cleaning brush to remove snow from solar panels. However, using a cleaning brush to brush snow can cause unexpected damage to solar panels if care is not taken. In this article, we will discuss how to use a cleaning brush to safely and effectively remove snow from solar panels while avoiding damage to the panels.
Selection and Use of Cleaning Brushes
Firstly, choosing the right cleaning brush is vital. There are several types of cleaning brushes available on the market, ranging from simple plastic brush heads to more advanced soft bristle brushes and even brushes with motorised drives. For solar panels, it’s best to use a soft-bristled brush or a specialised solar panel cleaning brush, as these won’t scratch or abrade the surface of the solar panel.
When using a cleaning brush, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Force control: force is key when brushing snow. Excessive force may cause the brush head to become embedded in the snow, which may put too much pressure on the solar panel and cause scratches or cracks. Therefore, you should maintain a gentle force when brushing snow to avoid unnecessary damage to the solar panels.
- Dry brush head: Make sure the brush head is dry before brushing snow. If the brush head carries moisture, it may bring moisture inside the solar panel during the snow brushing process, resulting in short circuit or corrosion. Therefore, it is best to dry the cleaning brush or wipe it clean with a dry cloth before using it.
- Avoid Sharp Tools: Never use sharp tools or metal brush heads to remove snow from solar panels. These tools can easily scratch the surface of the solar panel, leading to glass breakage or coating damage.
Correct snow brushing procedure
Next, let’s look at how to properly use a cleaning brush to remove snow from your solar panels:
- Observe the weather: before brushing snow, observe the weather conditions. If the weather conditions are bad (e.g. high winds, heavy snow, etc.), it’s best to wait until the weather improves before cleaning.
- Prepare tools: Choose a suitable cleaning brush and make sure the brush head is dry. Also, prepare a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe the surface of the solar panels if needed.
- Gently brush the snow: Using a gentle pressure, start at one end of the solar panel and gradually brush towards the other end. Avoid brushing the same spot repeatedly to minimise friction and wear on the solar panel.
- Inspect the surface: After brushing the snow, carefully inspect the surface of the solar panel for scratches or damage. If you find any problems, contact a professional for overhaul.
Alternatives and Preventive Measures
In addition to using a cleaning brush, there are a few other ways to remove snow from solar panels:
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- Warm water rinsing: In moderate temperatures, you can use warm water to rinse the surface of the solar panel to melt the snow quickly. However, you need to be careful not to overheat the water, so as not to cause deformation or damage to the solar panels.
- Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of solar panels can help to identify and deal with potential problems in a timely manner. This not only extends the life of the solar panels, but also ensures that they always maintain good power generation efficiency.
common problems
Why do you damage solar panels when brushing snow?
- Brushing snow may cause scratches or abrasions on the surface of the solar panel due to the use of excessively hard brushes or tools.
- Brushing the snow too hard may also cause an impact on the solar panel, resulting in cracks or breaks.
Is there any other way to clean up solar panels when they are covered in snow other than brushing them?
Warm water can be used to spray on the surface of the solar panel to quickly melt the snow and rinse it away. However, care needs to be taken not to overheat the water to avoid deforming or damaging the PV panels.
What should I do if my solar panels have been damaged by snow brushing?
Immediately stop using the damaged solar panel and contact a professional for overhaul.
What kind of brush should I use to clean the solar panels?
Clean with soft brush and other tools, avoid using sharp objects.
Conclusion
Using a cleaning brush to remove snow from solar panels is a simple and effective method, but it requires attention to practice and detail. By choosing the right cleaning brush, controlling the strength, keeping the brush head dry, and following the correct snow brushing procedure, we can safely and effectively remove snow while avoiding damage to the solar panels. Also, consider using alternatives such as warm water rinsing or automatic snow removal systems to ease the burden of cleanup. Let’s enjoy the convenience and environmental benefits of solar energy while protecting these valuable green energy facilities.
Solar cleaning brushes are available in different types (manual or electric), products (Double head, single head, rolling brush), sizes (3.2/5.5/7.2 m or 4.8-9m), power supply programs (AC power version, Lithium battery version, Dual power version, Motor (Bldc, Brush). Customizable brushes with soft heads and retractable poles, To choose the best solar panel cleaning brush for your project, you should consult with professionals who can offer you the best choices and prices.
