Criterion 6.4.5 Dirt Retention and Staining

Criterion text:
Solar systems and collectors shall be accessible for periodic cleaning if conditions are such that self-cleaning by rain is not sufficient to keep the collectors operating efficiently.

Comments:
In most areas, rains periodically wash collector glazings. Certain geographic areas are worse than others and this becomes critical in respect to this requirement. This is especially true in arid areas such as Arizona and California which go through long periods of drought.

The homeowner must have access to the collector to clean the glazing. In turn, the homeowner’s manual must provide clear instructions on how to clean the collector glazing. The typical precaution is to avoid spraying cold water on a hot collector.

Figure 1 shows dust accumulation that may reduce the overall performance of the solar system.

Figure 1

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