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This week we share Polywater's recommended SPW™ Solar Panel Wash cleaning instructions. These general guidelines will soon be available as a link on the SPW Support Page.
General Maintenance Note:
Inspect the entire solar array system prior to cleaning to detect loose or broken wires, panels, or improperly functioning apparatus. Make necessary repairs before cleaning. Take before-and-after photos and system output readings for presentation to the customer. Schedule quarterly cleaning and maintenance with the customer to keep their system operating at its theoretical maximum output.
SPW™ Usage Recommendation:
Recommended dilution ratio is 1 part SPW to 25 parts water (25-1). For heavily soiled areas, use either a higher SPW cleaner concentration or more rinsing. The cat #SPW-35HS hose adapter package has a selector switch atop the sprayer to toggle between the 25-1 and water-only ratios.
- Use 25-1 SPW solution to rinse panels. Rinsing is done first to remove loose sand and debris from the panels, which helps prevent scratching when using brushes. In locales known for hard water, use deionized water to dilute the SPW. It is okay to rinse with water only.
- Allow the dirt to drain from the surface and spray the panels with Polywater SPW diluted 25-1 again. Wet only the number of panels that can be brushed and rinsed before the SPW solution dries. Large arrays may need to be cleaned section by section. Use heavier amounts of SPW on bird dropping areas.
- Scrub panels with a very soft brush. Rinse the brush bristles frequently when cleaning heavily soiled systems to reduce scratching. Using brushes also helps agitate the SPW; dirt tends to “carry" or lift off the panels better. Water alone--even deionized water--will not lift or carry off dirt adequately. SPW is far more effective at removing residue and cleaning panels.
- Rinse the panels with 25-1 SPW solution and allow to dry. SPW leaves a clean surface that will dry faster, reduce spotting and repel soil. As an option, rinse surface with water. Observe the condition of the panels and repeat the process above if necessary.
- If desired, buff the dry, clean panels with blue microfiber cloths followed by white microfiber cloths for a fine finish.
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