Solar panels are the main tool for absorbing sunlight. To enable solar panels to absorb more sunlight, it is essential to perform proper cleaning. To determine the most cost-effective and labor-saving method for cleaning solar panels, we visited a certain photovoltaic station in Turkey and conducted an experiment using a pop-up type sprinkler system. Through tests with different cleaning powers, it was found that the effect was best in the morning and evening for 10 minutes. The power generation of the solar panels could increase by 1.13% – 3.38%, and 83% of the water could be reused. But why did the experts still recommend using electric cleaning brushes after the experiment? Is the pop-up type sprinkler system suitable for all regions?
Advantages of pop-up sprinkler system:
1. Collecting rainwater to realize water saving
In arid areas where water resources are precious, precipitation can be collected by rainwater harvesting system and then used for cleaning.
According to research pop-up sprinkler system has a water recycling capacity of up to 83%, which is more water efficient than conventional flushing.
2. Reduce the accumulation of dust
The solar panels on the roof are very likely to accumulate dust, according to experimental data can be queried that the accumulation of dust will lead to a loss of power generation of 10-25%
Morning and evening solar panels can be sprayed for 10 minutes can be an overall increase in power generation of 1.13%-3.38%.
3. Reduced Labor Costs
Cleaning solar panels manually is not only costly, but also has the potential for accidents, whereas sprinkler systems can reduce the need for maintenance.
why experts not recommend using pop-up sprinkler system.
The biggest advantage of the pop-up sprinkler system is water saving, but it is not practical to use sprinkler irrigation to clean the solar panels, this system is only suitable for removing the floating layer, but it is difficult to clean the bird droppings and the nozzles are easy to be clogged, which is only suitable for cleaning light pollution, and if you want to clean the solar panels cleanly, it is recommended that you use a professional tool to do the cleaning, which is especially suitable for the Middle East and Australia such as sand and bird droppings coexist environment.
Now, please take a look at the cleaning process of the electric cleaning brush.
Is the pop-up type sprinkler system suitable for all regions？
By reading the above information, you can know that he is more suitable for areas with arid conditions and sandstorms. If the water resources in your area are abundant, I suggest you purchase cleaning tools to clean your solar panels. However, if you want to save water resources, I recommend this dry-and-wet-cleanable cleaning tool.
The pop-up sprinkler system is a cost-effective and automated solution for cleaning solar panels. If you live in an area with heavy sand and dust, where manual cleaning is difficult and water resources are extremely scarce, you may consider using this system. However, using this system alone cannot completely clean the stains on the solar panels. To truly achieve the cleaning of solar panels, it is a better choice to use it in combination with a dry and wet cleanable electric cleaning brush.