PANEL NEGLECT
The dangers of Lichen and neglecting regular solar panel cleaning
Solar panels are a significant investment for your home or business. They harness the sun’s power, helping reduce energy bills and contribute to a cleaner environment. But to get the most out of your solar panels, regular maintenance is essential—especially cleaning. One of the most underestimated threats to your solar system’s efficiency is the growth of Lichen, which can develop if your panels are neglected.
What is Lichen, and Why is it a Problem?
Lichen is a composite organism that thrives in areas exposed to moisture and sunlight. Over time, if solar panels aren’t appropriately cleaned, Lichen can grow on the surface. This seemingly harmless growth can have detrimental effects on your solar energy production.
Here are the main dangers of Lichen on solar panels:
Reduced Efficiency: Lichen forms a thick layer that obstructs sunlight from reaching your panels. Since solar panels absorb sunlight, this reduces their ability to generate electricity. Even a tiny amount of Lichen can block sunlight and reduce your solar panel efficiency by 20% or more.
Permanent Damage: Once established, lichens can be challenging to remove. Left too long can cause micro-scratches on the panel’s surface during removal. This damage can be permanent, affecting the lifespan and performance of your solar system.
Increased Energy Costs: When your solar panels don’t perform at their peak due to lichen or dirt buildup, you won’t generate the energy you should. As a result, you may find yourself relying more on grid electricity, leading to higher energy bills.
Corrosion and Degradation: Lichen tends to trap moisture, which can seep into the edges of the solar panel. Over time, this trapped moisture can lead to corrosion of the electrical components and frame, further damaging the system and shortening its lifespan.
Neglecting to clean your solar panels regularly invites lichen growth and allows dirt, bird droppings, and other debris to build up. Many homeowners believe the rain will address this issue, but rain alone isn’t enough to thoroughly clean the panels. Professional cleaning services can ensure that your panels are spotless and free from any harmful buildup.
Here are the benefits of regular solar panel cleaning:
Maximize Energy Production: Clean solar panels ensure optimal sunlight absorption, maximizing energy production and reducing energy costs.
Prolong the Life of Your Panels: Regular cleaning helps maintain the health of your solar panels, preventing long-term damage from Lichen, dirt, and other contaminants.
Boost ROI: Keeping your panels clean lets you maximize your investment by improving efficiency and reducing potential repair costs.
Don’t wait for Lichen to take hold! Book a regular solar panel cleaning with Shmik Services today to ensure your solar panels stay in top condition and give you the best return on your investment. Keep your energy savings up and your panels shining bright!
Contact Shmik Services today to schedule an obligation-free quote with our expert team!