When it comes to maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your solar panels, the cleaning process plays a pivotal role. But not all cleaning methods are created equal. At Eco Shine Solar, we champion the use of pure water systems for solar panel cleaning, a method proven to be effective in enhancing your solar panels’ performance and lifespan. Here’s a deep dive into why pure water cleaning stands out as the superior choice for your solar investment.
The Downside of Using Tap or Standard Water
Ordinary tap water, whether it’s from your municipal supply, a tank, or a bore, contains minerals like calcium, magnesium and silica which is can be very high in some areas in New Zealand . When used for cleaning, these minerals leave residues on your solar panels, particularly silica, which is notorious for creating stubborn white stains that not only obstruct sunlight but also firmly adhere to the solar panels’ surface, creating a layer that is challenging to remove. Over time, as these mineral deposits are exposed to the elements, they undergo a process of hardening and bonding with the panel’s glass. This bonding makes the stains increasingly difficult to eliminate using standard cleaning methods.
The longer these deposits remain on the panels, the more ingrained they become, requiring specialised treatment for removal, which can be both costly and time-consuming. In some severe cases, if the staining is extensive and deeply embedded, the panels might never fully regain their original efficiency, leading to a permanent decrease in energy output and a shorter lifespan for the solar installation.
The Pure Water Cleaning Method
Eco Shine Solar employs a state-of-the-art pure water cleaning system, specifically Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Deionisation (DI), to ensure that the water we use is free of these efficiency-hindering minerals. Our reverse osmosis process filters out nearly all mineral content, while the deionisation stage captures the remaining impurities, delivering water that’s as pure as it gets.
This ultra-pure water has a unique property—it’s a powerful solvent that absorbs dirt, grime, and organic compounds without the need for soaps or chemicals. When applied to solar panels, it cleans without leaving behind any residue, ensuring that nothing obstructs the panels’ ability to convert sunlight into energy.
In the world of solar panel cleaning, some providers may use smaller, portable DI tanks. While these can be effective to a certain degree, they don’t always offer the same level of purity as larger, more sophisticated systems. The resin in DI tanks needs regular replacement, and there’s an environmental concern regarding how the spent resin is disposed of. If not handled correctly, it can contribute to environmental pollution.
Moreover, the smaller DI systems may not always guarantee the complete removal of all minerals. Some systems might not fully exchange the ions, leading to less-than-pure water that could still deposit residues on your solar panels. In contrast, our RO and DI system is designed to ensure maximum purity, effectively eliminating the risks associated with mineral deposits.
Another point to consider is the transparency and accountability in the refilling process of DI tanks. With smaller, portable units, there’s often no way to verify if the tanks are being refilled correctly or if the resin is being exchanged in an environmentally responsible manner. This uncertainty can affect both the cleaning efficacy and the eco-friendliness of the process.
By choosing Eco Shine Solar, you’re opting for a solar panel cleaning service that not only prioritises the performance and lifespan of your solar panels but also demonstrates a genuine commitment to environmental sustainability. Our approach ensures that your solar panels are cleaned with the utmost care, using the purest water, without compromising the environment.
Why Pure Water Cleaning Is Superior
- No Residues, Maximum Efficiency: Unlike tap water, pure water leaves no residue, ensuring that your solar panels operate at peak efficiency. Even a thin film of mineral buildup can significantly impact performance. Pure water cleaning keeps the panels’ surface pristine, allowing for optimal energy conversion.
- Eco-Friendly and Safe: Our pure water cleaning method is entirely eco-friendly, using no harsh chemicals that could harm the environment or your solar panels. It’s a gentle yet effective way to maintain your system, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.
- Longevity for Your Solar Investment: By preventing mineral buildup and ensuring thorough cleaning, pure water extends the lifespan of your solar panels. Regular maintenance with pure water cleaning can help your system perform at its best for years to come, safeguarding your investment.
- Endorsed by Manufacturers: Many solar panel manufacturers recommend or even require pure water cleaning to uphold their warranty standards. Our cleaning method meets these guidelines, ensuring that your warranty remains valid and your panels are cared for according to the highest industry standards.
At Eco Shine Solar, we’re not just about cleaning solar panels; we’re about preserving and enhancing your clean energy source using the most effective, eco-friendly methods available. Choosing Eco Shine Solar means opting for a service that understands the science behind solar panel maintenance and is committed to delivering the best results for your solar system. With pure water cleaning, your solar panels aren’t just clean; they’re Eco Shine clean—maintained with precision, care, and the utmost respect for your renewable energy investment.
