Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How often should solar panels be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning frequency depends on your location, installation type and local soiling environment. In high-dust areas (near highways, construction or industrial zones), monthly cleaning is often required. In cleaner environments, quarterly cleaning may be sufficient. PlasmaBerry recommends a site assessment to determine the right schedule for your plant.

Question 2

What cleaning methods does PlasmaBerry use?

Accepted Answer

We use four methods depending on the plant type: manual cleaning with telescopic mops, semi-automatic buffing machines, robotic cleaning (Jetsons Zero), and Sprinko automated sprinkler systems. The right method is selected based on module type, installation geometry, water availability and soiling level.

Question 3

Do you use water for cleaning? How much?

Accepted Answer

Most cleaning methods use water. Our Sprinko automated system uses approximately 1.75 litres per module per cycle — significantly less than conventional hosepipe cleaning. For sites with water scarcity, we can recommend dry-cleaning methods or the Sprinko system with a rain-sensor override.

Question 4

Will cleaning scratch or damage my panels?

Accepted Answer

No. PlasmaBerry technicians are trained to use only module-safe cleaning materials and methods. We do not use abrasive pads, harsh chemicals or high-pressure jets that can damage anti-reflective coatings. Our Sprinko system uses a no-rubbing sprinkler mechanism that eliminates physical contact with the module surface.

Question 5

How do I know the cleaning actually improved performance?

Accepted Answer

Every PlasmaBerry service visit includes a Module Cleaning Efficiency (MCE) report generated through Helios™. The MCE score compares pre- and post-cleaning irradiance-normalised generation data to quantify the performance improvement from the service. You receive this report after every visit.

Question 6

What is included in a PlasmaBerry AMC?

Accepted Answer

Our AMC programs cover scheduled module cleaning, preventive maintenance inspections, corrective maintenance for identified faults, condition-based monitoring, Helios™ platform access and MCE reporting. The exact scope depends on the tier — Essential, Performance or Total Care.

Question 7

What plant sizes do you cover under AMC?

Accepted Answer

We cover residential rooftop systems (1 kWp and above), commercial and industrial rooftops, and utility-scale ground-mount plants. AMC pricing is based on installed capacity (kWp) and the selected service tier.

Question 8

Can I get an AMC for a plant that another company installed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PlasmaBerry AMC programs are available for any solar plant regardless of who installed it. We conduct a baseline inspection before onboarding to document the current condition of the plant.

Question 9

What is the minimum contract period for an AMC?

Accepted Answer

Our standard AMC contracts are for 12 months. Multi-year contracts (2 or 3 years) are available at preferential rates. Contact our team for a customised quote.

Question 10

What is Sprinko?

Accepted Answer

Sprinko is PlasmaBerry's proprietary automated module cleaning system. It uses angular micro-sprinklers installed along the module rows to deliver a controlled water spray that cleans panels without physical contact. The system is controlled by a micro-controller and can be programmed for scheduled or sensor-triggered operation.

Question 11

How much water does Sprinko use?

Accepted Answer

Sprinko uses approximately 1.75 litres of water per module per cleaning cycle — significantly less than manual hosepipe cleaning. The system includes a rain sensor that automatically skips scheduled cycles when natural rainfall has already cleaned the panels.

Question 12

Can Sprinko be installed on any rooftop?

Accepted Answer

Sprinko is suitable for most flat and low-pitch rooftop installations and ground-mount plants. A site survey is required to assess water supply, module layout and structural compatibility before installation.

Question 13

Does Sprinko work at night?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sprinko is designed for night or early morning operation (typically 2–5 AM) when the modules are cool and not generating power. This avoids thermal shock from cold water on hot panels and ensures panels are clean before peak generation hours.

Question 14

What is Helios™?

Accepted Answer

Helios™ is PlasmaBerry's AI service intelligence platform. It gives customers real-time visibility into their service history, scheduled visits, technician assignments, before/after photo evidence, MCE performance reports and plant health analytics — all in one dashboard.

Question 15

Is Helios™ included with every service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every PlasmaBerry service — whether a one-off cleaning visit or an AMC program — is documented in Helios™. Customers receive access to their plant's service record and MCE reports through the platform.

Question 16

How do I access Helios™?

Accepted Answer

Helios™ is accessible at plasmaberrymis.com. Your login credentials are provided when your service account is set up. Contact our helpdesk at +91 93723 69456 if you need access assistance.

Question 17

What is Anti-Dust Shield (ADS)?

Accepted Answer

Anti-Dust Shield is a hydrophobic nano-coating applied to solar module glass. It creates a water-repellent surface that causes dust and water to bead up and roll off the panel, reducing dust adhesion and extending the interval between cleaning cycles.

Question 18

How long does ADS last?

Accepted Answer

A single ADS application provides effective hydrophobic protection for 2 to 3 years under normal environmental conditions. Re-application is recommended after this period or after a deep clean that removes the coating.

Question 19

Does ADS affect panel output?

Accepted Answer

No. ADS is an optically transparent coating and does not measurably affect light transmission or module output when applied correctly.

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