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“Photovoltaic modules must be cleaned regularly to ensure maximum performance,” according to the company. “However care must be taken when cleaning as the use of chemical cleaning agents carries a considerable risk of damage. Aggressive chemicals or abrasive cleaning agents can scratch or corrode the sensitive surfaces of the modules.”
Hard cleaning brushes and sharp objects can also scratch the panels, it warned.
“We have no control over how the cleaning medium is applied. However, at least on the chemical side, we can provide cleaners that ensure the gentle removal of dirt,” said Emil Otto sales manager Markus Geßner.
There are four cleaners in the range: mildly acid to remove alkaline residues, mildly alkaline to remove acidic residues, mildly alkaline with oxygen activation to remove lichens, mosses and algae, and pH-neutral. All will remove salt residues.
The cleaners are biodegradable and can be applied automatically or manually by spraying or brushing. They leave no greasy residues, no residue that hardens under UV radiation, and are not aggressive towards electronic components, said the company.
The instructions are to leave them on for 5 to 15 minutes, then wash and rinse using water until there are no more ‘foaming residues’.
How often will they need cleaning?
More frequent near a cement factory, said Geßner, or other dusty or dirty locations, and weather conditions and the type of soiling play a role.
