What is Windex?
Can you clean solar panels with Windex? Yes, you can clean your solar panels with Windex, but what is Windex? Windex is a product used to clean kitchens, bathrooms, tiles, windows, and glass or mirrors but you can also clean solar panels with Windex it will work properly on solar panels.
Can you clean solar panels with Windex?
Yes, you can clean solar panels with Windex.
Solar panels are used to generate electricity, they absorb solar energy or sunlight and convert it into electrical energy in this way electricity is generated. After wind or storms, the solar panels get dusty and dirty, to avoid any inconvenience or any impact on the efficiency of the solar panel it is important to clean them frequently when they get dirty.
What will happen if we do not clean our solar panels?
This is the most common question that people ask, they think that cleaning solar panels is not necessary or it does not matter but they are wrong. If you do not clean your solar panels properly they will not work efficiently, because the dust lying on the glass or the panels can decrease the efficiency of your solar panel.
An uncleaned solar panel can be 20% less efficient as compared to a clean solar panel so this shows us how important is to keep our solar panels clean, why here’s another question arise and that is “Can we clean our solar panels with Windex?” I already said yes, but below I have explained some benefits and some cons of cleaning them with Windex.
Benefits of cleaning solar panels with Windex:
Following are the benefits of cleaning solar panels with Windex:
- Cleans the solar panels properly.
- Its Cleaning is efficient.
- Windex will clean the solar panels so that no dirt will be left behind.
- Solar panels will shine like glass.
Disadvantages of cleaning with Windex:
One of the disadvantages of cleaning solar panels with Windex is that it may leave a residue that will block a small number of sun rays from entering the solar panels. Windex may leave some streaks which can cause a reduction in the efficiency of solar panels.
How To Avoid Streaks And Residue:
To avoid residue you should wash the solar panels with the proper amount of water and after washing your solar panels you should clean them with a dry cloth. To avoid streaks you should avoid heavy or strong cleaning, and use a soft cloth after washing the solar panels.
How often you should clean solar panels?
After how many months should we clean solar panels? It would help if you cleaned your solar panels every 6 months. Cleaning solar panels twice or three times every year is very important. The best time for cleaning the solar panels is 9 am to 2 pm.
Ways to clean solar panels:
There are many ways to clean solar panels but in this article, I just tell you one method to clean solar panels with Windex. Following are the things that you need to clean solar panels:
Materials Needed:
- Windex
- Hose pipe
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
1. Prepare Your Tools:
- Gather the Windex and hose pipe.
- Connect the hose pipe to the Windex.
2. Understanding the Windex Options:
- Examine the Windex bottle, particularly the top where a button is located.
- The button has three options:
- OFF
- Rinse
- Clean
3. Wetting the Solar Panels:
- Start by setting the button to the Rinse option.
- Spray water onto the solar panels using the hose to wet them thoroughly.
- This initial rinse helps remove loose debris and dust particles from the surface of the panels.
4. Applying Windex Solution:
- Switch the button to the Clean option.
- This action will dispense the Windex solution.
- Begin spraying the Windex solution evenly over the solar panels.
5. Allowing Dwell Time:
- Leave the Windex solution on the solar panels for a specific duration, typically 20 to 25 seconds.
- This dwell time allows the cleaning solution to break down and dissolve any stubborn dirt or grime on the surface of the panels.
6. Rinsing Off the Solution:
- After the dwell time has elapsed, switch the button back to the Rinse option.
- Thoroughly rinse the solar panels with water using the hose.
- Ensure that all the Windex solution and loosened dirt are washed away.
7. Inspecting for Residue:
- After rinsing, inspect the solar panels for any remaining residue.
- If needed, repeat the cleaning process to ensure a spotless finish.
8. Drying the Solar Panels:
- Allow the solar panels to air dry or use a soft, clean cloth to gently dry them.
- Ensure that no water spots or streaks are left behind.
9. Regular Maintenance:
- Schedule regular cleaning sessions, especially in areas with high dust or pollution levels.
- Consider cleaning during cooler parts of the day to avoid rapid evaporation of the cleaning solution.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can maintain the cleanliness of your solar panels, promoting optimal energy production and prolonging the lifespan of your solar energy system. Regular cleaning not only enhances efficiency but also ensures a sustainable and eco-friendly energy source for years to come.
Other Best Materials To Clean Solar Panels With:
There are a lot of other ways and materials to clean solar panels but I will share the easiest ways of cleaning solar panels with you. The ways to clean solar panels are given below:
- water-fed pole brush
- Squeegee
- Expandable hose
- Solar glass cleaner
Here is the full guide for cleaning your solar panels: How To Clean Your Solar Panels? Easy Method
Note: Glass and solar panel cleaners are toxic to swallow so make sure to keep them somewhere safe and locked for your family’s safety. Thanks