D84-P06-01 GB R3
21/04/2021
www.photowatt.com
17
7.0
MAINTENANCE
•
Do not make modifications to any component of the
PV module (diode, junction box, plug connectors or
others).
•
Regular maintenance is required to keep modules
clear of snow, bird droppings, seeds, pollen, leaves,
branches, dirt spots, and dust.
•
Modules with sufficient tilt (at least 15°), generally do
not require cleaning (rain will have a self-cleaning ef-
fect). If the module has become soiled, wash with wa-
ter and a non-abrasive cleaning implement (sponge)
during the cool part of the day. Do not scrape or rub
dry dirt away, as this may cause micro scratches.
•
Snow should be removed using a soft brush.
•
Periodically inspect the system to check the integrity
of all wiring and supports.
•
To protect against electric shock or injury, electrical or
mechanical inspections and maintenance should be
performed by qualified personnel only.
8.0
MODULE CLEANING GUIDELINES
This manual covers the requirements for the cleaning
procedure of EDF ENR PWT‘s photovoltaic modules. The
purpose of these cleaning guidelines is to provide gener-
al information for cleaning EDF ENR PWT modules. Sys-
tem users and professional installers should read these
guidelines carefully and strictly follow these instructions.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in death,
injury or damage to the photovoltaic modules. Damages
induced by inappropriate cleaning procedures will void
EDF ENR PWT warranty.
SAFETY WARNING
•
Cleaning activities create risk of damaging the mod-
ules and array components, as well as increasing the
potential electric shock hazard.
•
Cracked or broken modules represent an electric
shock hazard due to leakage currents, and the risk
of shock is increased when modules are wet. Before
cleaning, thoroughly inspect modules for cracks,
damage, and loose connections.
•
The voltage and current present in an array during
daylight hours are sufficient to cause a lethal electri-
cal shock.
•
Ensure that the circuit is disconnected before start-
ing the cleaning procedure as contact with leakage
of electrically active parts can result in injury.
•
Ensure that the array has been disconnected to other
active components (such as inverter or combiner box-
es) before starting with the cleaning.
•
Wear suitable protection (clothes, insulated gloves,
etc.).
•
Do not immerse the module, partially or totally, in
water or any other cleaning solution.
HANDLING NOTICE
•
Use a proper cleaning solution and suitable cleaning
equipment.
•
Do not use abrasive or electric cleaners on the mod-
ule.
•
Particular attention should be taken to avoid the
module backsheet or frame to come in contact with
sharp objects, as scratches may directly affect prod-
uct safety.
•
Do not use abrasive cleaners, de-greasers or any un-
authorized chemical substance (e.g. oil, lubricant,
pesticide, etc.) on the module.
•
Do not use cleaning corrosive solutions containing
hydrofluoric acid, alkali, acetone, or industrial alco-
hol. Only substances explicitly approved by EDF ENR
PWT are allowed to be used for cleaning modules.
•
EDF ENR PWT recommends to avoid rotating brush
cleaning methods, as they could create micro-cracks
in the PV modules.
•
Dirt must never be scraped or rubbed away when
dry, as this will cause micro-scratches on the glass
surface.
OPERATION PREPARATION
•
Noticeable dirt must be rubbed away by gentle
cleaning implement (soft cloth, sponge or brush with
soft bristles).
•
Ensure that brushes or agitating tools are not abra-
sive to glass, EPDM, silicone, aluminum, or steel.
•
Conduct the cleaning activities avoiding the hottest
hours of the day, in order to avoid thermal stress on
the module.
EDF ENR PWT recommends the use of:
•
Water with low mineral content
•
Near neutral pH water
•
The maximum water pressure recommended is 4
MPa (40 bar)
