If you have recently picked up drone flying as a hobby, you need to be aware of the fact that drones require maintenance to keep them running without problems. With several sensitive areas, you need to be sure that you do not end up damaging any important component. Even though flying machines tend to differ and so do their maintenance schedules but the basics remain the same. We are going to discuss some general tips and ideas that will help you look after your drone so that you have a safe flight each time. Let’s begin.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Perfect Drone Cleaning Kit
When it comes to purchasing the perfect drone cleaning kit, you should make sure it includes the following items. If not, you might have to purchase them separately as they are basic tools required for drone maintenance.
Lens Cleaning Pen or Brush
If you are using a drone with a camera, you need to have a lens cleaning pen or brush. These are usually cheap and quite handy to carry. If you are out there to capture some great photos and videos, you are going to need this tool. Not only are they easy to store but easy to use as well, thanks to their natural shape.
Furthermore, most of these lens cleaning brushes or pens are retractable, which keeps the brush protected inside the brush’s body once the user is done cleaning the lens.
Air Blower Cleaner
An air blower cleaner is not included in a drone maintenance kit but you can purchase them from your local superstore at an affordable rate. Although there is a huge variety available out there but you need something that simply gets the job done. Part of regular drone maintenance requires blowing the dust and dirt particles post-flight.
However, make sure that you do not buy an excessively powerful blower for the purpose and the air pressure can easily damage sensitive components. If there is a budget constraint, you can use a hairdryer with normal airflow.
Cleaning Cloth
A cleaning cloth is perhaps the most important drone cleaning tool you need to have. While flying your drone, if the weather suddenly turns bad, you are going to need a cleaning cloth to remove water droplets and stains, etc.
Additionally, you can use the cleaning cloth to remove water from sensitive areas such as the propellers. However, make sure that you only use a microfiber cloth as the regular types can scratch the camera lens. At the same time, you should also have an alcohol-free cleaning solution.
It will help you get rid of any stains or grime that otherwise fails to come off using the conventional drying methods. Simply spray or drop a few drops on the concerned area and let it sit for a while. Then, using a clean microfiber cloth, wipe the residue away.
Cotton Swabs for Sensor Cleaning
While the previously mentioned items certainly have their uses but cotton swabs for sensor cleaning are a must-have in your drone maintenance kit. The cotton swabs carry the least amount of risk when cleaning the cameras or sensors etc.
Since the cameras and sensors tend to be the most sensitive parts, you need something sensitive as well that does the job of removing stubborn dust particles without damaging them. You can opt for different cotton swab sizes as they are categorized according to the sensor size of your camera.
How to Carry Out Deep Cleaning of Your Drone’s Components?
Motors
When it comes to cleaning up the drone and its motors, there are two steps involved. The first is that you need to remove dirt from the engines/propellers or other sensitive areas using a bristle brush. Make sure that you use an appropriate amount of cleaning solution so that it does not enter and damage other electrical components.
Next, comes the oiling. Every drone needs a bit of oiling based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure that only opt for the oil recommended by the manufacturer since not every oil type is going to suit your drone. Then again, use an appropriate amount of oil and avoid excessive application.
Propellers
Since propellers tend to be the most important component as they help the drone take flight and land, you need to dedicate more time and effort to clean them. Experts suggest that users should clean the propellers after every flight. A simple wipe with a soft microfiber cloth will do the job.
Furthermore, before you pack up your drone and put it in storage, make sure that you run a thorough inspection for any warping or hairline cracks. If you come across even a slight crack, you might want to consider replacing the propellers. It is a little cost to pay as compared to the more expensive drone that can cost thousands of dollars to replace.
Drone Frame
To clean the drone frame, you can use an air blower to remove the dirt and dust on the surface as well as the hard-to-reach areas. However, if you feel that the dust particles tend to be slightly stubborn, you should use a bristled brush or toothbrush.
You can use isopropyl liquid since it is non-conductive and decreases the possibility of harming or corroding other electrical components.
Pro-tips for Taking Care of Your Drone
Do a Pre-flight Check
Before taking off, it is important that you thoroughly inspect your drone. Check if the batteries are inserted properly, the propellers are tightened without turning free or falling off. Moreover, check your drone for the latest firmware as well and set it into the correct flight mode.
Scout the Location You Are Flying In
Even though most drone users tend to ignore this basic tip but it goes a long way in making sure that your drone returns safely each time. First of all, you would want to evaluate the weather conditions. If there are extreme winds out there, you might risk damaging your drone.
Additionally, you cannot fly the drone around communication towers, cables, and other sensitive areas. The signals will get jingled up and your drone may crash. Plus, if there are high-rise buildings, vehicles, and trees, etc. you might want to choose another location as the chances of signal interruption are still high.
Is it Possible to Damage Your Drone Camera Sensor or Lens?
As mentioned earlier, the camera sensor or lens tends to be amongst the most sensitive components if you are using a drone for aerial photography. With that said, you can easily damage them if you are not using the right cleaning tools.
Even though this is the case with any type of electronics but since cameras and lens are more sensitive due to their complex construction, you need to be precise and delicate while cleaning. Part of drone camera cleaning requires that you use cleaning solutions in a limited amount and only use cleaning tools recommended by the manufacturer.
For instance, if the manufacturer recommends using a microfiber cloth for cleaning the camera, do not use a brush for it. A brush can damage the lens glass.
Can You Clean Your Drone Camera Lens Without a Kit?
Yes, you can but at the cost of damaging the camera lens. Experts do not recommend cleaning your drone camera lens without a dedicated cleaning kit in hand. The reason is that drone cleaning kits are manufactured keeping in view the sensitive components and materials etc.
Using cleaning items sitting in your house are not made for the same purpose. Therefore, it is better to spend a little extra and use better products for your expensive drone rather than putting up with expensive replacements due to poor-quality cleaning solutions.
Conclusion
As a drone user, your first priority should be guaranteeing the excellent condition of your drone each time. Considering the cleaning tips mentioned above, you can easily maintain your expensive drone, anytime, anywhere. This ensures that your investment is cared for and you are able to fly as safely as possible under the circumstances.