Rev IM/GN-CM-EN/1.0 Copyright© October, 2020 Canadian Solar Inc. 16
ANNEX C: Module Cleaning Guidelines
This manual covers the requirements for the cleaning procedure of Canadian Solar Inc.‘s photovoltaic modules.
The purpose of these cleaning guidelines is to provide general information for cleaning Canadian Solar modules.
System 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 Canadian Solar Inc. warranty.
Safety Warning
Cleaning activities create risk of damaging the modules 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 electrical
shock.
Ensure that the circuit is disconnected before starting 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
boxes) 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 module.
Particular attention should be taken to avoid the module backsheet or frame to come in contact with sharp
objects, as scratches may directly affect product safety.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, de-greasers or any unauthorized chemical substance (e.g. oil, lubricant,
pesticide, etc.) on the module.
Do not use cleaning corrosive solutions containing hydrofluoric acid, alkali, acetone, or industrial alcohol.
Only substances explicitly approved by Canadian Solar are allowed to be used for cleaning modules.
Canadian Solar Inc. 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 abrasive 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
