India's clean energy campaign has achieved a historic milestone. PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme has played a very important role in this. Under this scheme, till now solar systems have been installed on the roofs of more than 36.47 lakh houses and more than 44.32 lakh families are getting the benefit of this scheme.

To take full advantage of this promise of 'free electricity', experts recommend adopting a very simple habit. If you have also installed solar panels at your home and do not use it properly, then the electricity production can reduce by 30%. So let us know in detail what are those things which you should not do and how you can keep your solar panel in good condition.

Regular cleaning of panels is necessary

According to a recent study, accumulation of dust and dirt on the panels can reduce power output by 5 to 30 percent. At the same time, it takes only a few minutes every month to clean it and there is no extra cost. During May, the number of monthly installations reached an all-time high of 3.16 lakh. This means that lakhs of families in the country are generating their own electricity for the first time. As the number of homes installing solar panels is increasing, it has become equally important to ensure that each panel works at its full potential.

The beneficiary gets a guarantee

Vendors registered under PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme provide a comprehensive maintenance guarantee of 5 years to every beneficiary, providing long-term security and confidence to families. Along with this government support, families can also take one small step themselves: regular cleaning. This is the simplest solution to maximize power generation and increase savings every month. If the efficiency of the panel decreases by 5 to 30 percent due to dust accumulation, it will produce less units of electricity. outcome? You will have to pay more electricity bill. When dust, soil, vehicle smoke, bird droppings and dry leaves accumulate on the surface of solar panels, they block sunlight from reaching the panel cells. This reduces the power generation capacity by 5% to 30% and also increases the risk of the panel getting permanently damaged.

How to keep your solar panels in good condition

• Dust, leaves and bird droppings can reduce your solar power by 5% to 30%. Regular cleaning is essential to keep your system running at full capacity.
• Schedule: If you live in dusty or industrial areas, or there are frequent dust storms and bird traffic, then clean every month.
• Best time: Clean early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Warning: Never make the mistake of cleaning panels in the hot afternoon sun. If cold water falls on hot glass, it may crack/break.

Step by step cleaning process

• Isolate the system: First of all turn off the inverter and DC isolator. Never clean a running system.
• Allow to cool: Wait at least 30 minutes for the panels to cool.
• Removing dry dust: Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to clean the upper dry dust.
• Wet cleaning: Use a soft sponge or mop (poha) with clean and low mineral (normal) water. Always clean the panel in straight lines (straight strokes).
• Wash with water: Wash with clean water to completely remove any remaining dirt.
• Inspect: Allow the panels to dry and then inspect the glass carefully for cracks. If any damage is noticed, notify your installer immediately.
• Restart: While starting the system, first turn on the DC isolator, and then turn on the inverter.