Over thousands of Melbourne’s residents schedule solar panel cleaning while cleaning the gutters on the roof. You must be using various ways of cleaning both these home systems to extend their lifespan. However, cleaning these systems is hard when you are unsure how to clean them effectively.
Unlike any regular cleaning, cleaning gutters and solar panels requires considering every aspect to make the best use of these systems. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to costly repairs and inefficiencies, such as reduced energy production from solar panels and water damage from clogged gutters.
In this blog, we will explore solutions to common mistakes people make when cleaning their solar panels and gutters. Avoiding these errors will save you money and ensure that your home systems function effectively.
Let’s dive into the costly mistakes to avoid in solar panel and gutter cleaning.
1. Using Harsh Chemicals
One of the most common and obvious mistakes people make when cleaning solar panels or gutters is using harsh chemicals. It is tempting to reach for strong cleaners when you see year-round mould, mildew, and stains on solar panels and gutter systems. More so, when these cleaners promise quick and efficient results and are easily available with “heavy-duty” and “industrial-strength” labels.
However, using harsh chemicals on your solar panels and gutters can have negative effects.
Consequences:
Damages Solar Panel Coatings and Reduces its Efficiency:
Solar panels have a special layer coating that protects them from weathering and enhances their efficiency. Harsh chemicals can damage this coating and make it sensitive to scratches and discolouration. In the worst-case scenario, using chemical cleaners for solar panel cleaning can reduce the solar panel’s ability to capture sunlight efficiently.
Corrosion and Weakening of Gutter Materials:
Gutters are designed with aluminium, steel, or vinyl. Strong chemicals can corrode metal gutters, causing rust and damage. Similarly, vinyl gutters can also crack or break apart with chemical exposure.
Proper Approach:
- Opt for mild and eco-friendly cleaning solutions that are safe for both solar panels and gutters.
- Use a mixture of water and a small amount of mild dish soap to clean the solar system gently.
- Consider using a solution of water and white vinegar to clean the gutter materials safely. Find a professional gutter cleaning near me who can clean gutters and drainage lines more safely with correct pressure and techniques.
2. Ignoring Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Manufacturers offer specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines when installing solar panels and gutters. These guidelines ensure these systems last long and perform at their best capacity. When you ignore these instructions and use improper cleaning methods, you are only damaging these structures.
Consequences:
You Cannot Claim Warranties:
Most solar panels and gutters come with warranties that cover defects and damages. When you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions for solar panel and gutter cleaning for as long as the warranty stands valid, you will end up paying significant money.
Cause More Damage:
Using abrasive materials or high-pressure water can scratch, crack, or otherwise harm the surfaces.
Proper Approach:
- Homeowners should carefully read and follow the maintenance manuals when cleaning solar panels and gutters. Apart from using the right products, adhering to these guidelines can help you with acquiring a warranty.
- If you are uncertain about the proper cleaning methods or products to use, it’s best to consult professional solar or gutter cleaning near me.
3. Using High-Pressure Washers
Besides using harsh chemicals and incorrect products, a common practice is using high-pressure washers to clean solar panels and gutters. While high-pressure washers can be effective for certain surfaces, you should never use them to clean the delicate surfaces of solar panels and gutters.
Consequences:
Cracks and Scratches on Solar Panels:
The force of high-pressure water can crack or scratch the surface of panels. Also, it reduces the panel’s ability to absorb UV rays and reach them to the photovoltaic cells.
Cause Gutters to Bend and Block:
High-pressure washers can be too powerful for the delicate structure of gutters, leading to dislodging, bending, or even detachment from the house. This can cause water drainage issues and cause damage to the home’s walls and exteriors.
Proper Approach:
- Use low-pressure water, such as a garden hose, combined with soft brushes or sponges to clean gutters and solar panels.
- Specialised solar panel cleaning kits are available on the market and designed specifically for the delicate surfaces of solar panels. You can also use a gutter cleaning tool that attaches to a standard garden hose. If you are searching for a professional gutter cleaning near me, then nothing beats professional help in choosing the right pressure for cleaning.
4. Overlooking Regular Maintenance
Many homeowners tend to clean their solar panels and gutters only when they appear visibly dirty. This approach overlooks the importance of regular maintenance, and you may not find major issues immediately.
Consequences:
Can Make the Solar Panels and Gutters Inefficient:
Over time, dirt, leaves, and other build-ups on solar panels and in gutters can make the process of generating solar energy slower and block gutters.
Minimises Lifespan:
The lack of regular maintenance can cause wear and tear on solar panels and gutters, shortening their lifespan.
Proper Approach:
- Establishing a regular cleaning schedule is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of solar panels and gutters. You can either choose to clean every few months or every quarter end, depending on the condition of your solar panels and gutter systems.
5. Forgetting to Check for Repairs
During cleaning, it’s easy to focus only on removing dirt and debris while overlooking minor damages that may be present.
Consequences:
Small Issues Escalating into Major Repairs:
Minor damages, such as small cracks in solar panels or slight dents in gutters, can worsen over time if not addressed promptly.
Higher Costs Due to Delayed Attention:
Ignoring minor issues can result in more extensive and costly repairs in the future. For example, a small leak in a gutter can cause water damage to the home’s foundation if left untreated, leading to expensive structural repairs.
Proper Approach:
- It is best to ensure that a professional cleaning involves a thorough inspection of solar panels and gutters. Make sure that professionals inspect for cracks, discolouration, loose connections, and moisture issues in solar panels during the cleaning process.
- On the other hand, you must also look for rust spots, cracks, sagging sections, leaks, and debris in gutters, which can cost major repairs if not taken care of.
Final Words
We hope you enjoyed reading this blog. If you are already making these cleaning mistakes, it’s time to stop and look for the best solutions. This way, you can ensure that solar panels and gutters function appropriately and safely and do not end up adding more expenses to maintain your home.
If you are hunting for solar panel cleaning, hire Exterior Clean Melbourne. This company complies well with safety standards and uses eco-friendly solutions for cleaning gutters, solar panels, roofs, and exteriors of your home.
