The reason we go camping is to explore the great outdoors, be amongst nature and enjoy life away from the hustle and bustle of city living.
The best way to travel wherever and whenever you want is when you’ve got a solar panel to charge your journey.
Maintaining solar panels is extremely important, as they’ll be charging the many gadgets and appliances you need to stay comfortable in your caravan. They’ll also provide you with the energy for electricity, refrigeration, and hot water, so it’s crucial you maintain them to a high standard.
Solar panels get dirty fast. All kinds of debris can get lodged on top of the panels, blocking out the sunlight making the panels generate less power. Solar panels will also get very hot during the day, so we advise to clean them in the mornings or evenings. If you’re able to clean your solar panels on a daily basis your solar panels will be able to produce maximum energy.
The best method is simply with soap and water. For the process you may need:
-Hose
- Sponge
- Squeegee
- Bucket
- Water
- ladder (for roof-mounted panels)
1) Hose down your panels first. Clean them with water and soap using a sponge, mop or squeegee. This should remove any dirt from the surface of the solar panels.
2) Hose it down again to remove any residue. Check around and under the panels to remove any debris that blocks the airflow.
Ensure your solar panel’s battery is achieving optimum efficiency by maintaining it frequently. Baking soda, distilled water and a terminal cleaning brush is the best way to keep your battery clean.
Don’t mix old and new batteries as it can spoil the new ones. Make sure to always wear safety gear when dealing with batteries as they can be hazardous, as they contain acid.
Like anything, regular maintenance and cleaning will always increase efficiency and longevity. By doing so you could prevent replacement costs in the long run. Following these tips will ensure a well-maintained and efficient caravan solar power system that makes your adventure a remarkable experience.
