The Science Behind DI Water

A Common Misconception

Many homeowners make the mistake of cleaning their solar panels with tap water, which contains dissolved minerals and impurities. When the water dries, it leaves behind hard water spots, scale, and residue that can actually reduce solar efficiency. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       At Absolute Solar Shine, we use Deionized water (DI water) through an advanced ion exchange system to remove all dissolved minerals, ensuring a streak-free, ultra-pure rinse. This method not only cleans effectively but also prevents mineral deposits from forming on your panels.

How Ion Exchange Works

Ion exchange is a purification process that removes minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium from water by replacing them with neutral ions. This process eliminates contaminants that cause hard water stains and scaling. Unlike regular tap water, which can leave behind damaging residues, Deionized water ensures a thorough, spotless clean, maximizing your solar panel’s efficiency!

Testing the Water

The average Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) reading of tap water varies depending on the location and water source. However, here are some general ranges:

• Low TDS (50-150 ppm) – Common in areas with soft water or well-filtered municipal water.

• Moderate TDS (150-300 ppm) – Typical for most city tap water in the U.S.

• High TDS (300-500 ppm) – Found in areas with hard water or mineral-rich groundwater.

• Very High TDS (500+ ppm) – Often seen in untreated well water or regions with high mineral content.

The EPA recommends a maximum TDS level of 500 ppm for drinking water, but many municipal water sources range between 100-400 ppm. If you're using tap water for solar panel cleaning, you'll want to check the TDS level—ideally, it should be below 10 ppm to avoid mineral deposits and streaking.

At Absolute Solar Shine we test our water using a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)Meter to ensure it meets the highest standards. Water with a reading of 0 to 10 parts per million is pure enough to clean your panels without leaving any residue. Pure Water, Pure Energy, Pure Savings!