It's no secret that hail can be incredibly destructive. Just one hailstone the size of a golf ball can cause damage worth thousands of dollars. So, the question on many people's minds is, are solar panels durable enough to withstand a hail storm? The answer may surprise you! In this blog post, we will discuss the durability of solar panels and whether or not they can withstand a severe hail storm. Read on to know more! If you live in a place where hail is a common occurrence, then you know that this weather phenomenon can cause much damage. From shattering windshields to denting cars, hail can wreak havoc on just about anything it comes into contact with. So, it's only natural that people would wonder if solar panels are durable enough to withstand a hailstorm.
How durable are solar PV panels in a hail storm?
How durable are solar PV panels in a hail storm? That's a great question and one that is important to consider if you live in an area prone to severe weather. Solar PV panels are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. With rigorous industry testing and certifications, solar panel systems can withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail storms. In fact, most solar PV panels come with a warranty that covers damage from severe weather events. So, if you're worried about your solar PV panels being damaged in a hail storm, rest assured that they are designed to withstand the elements.If you live in an area prone to hail storms, it is always important to have your panels inspected regularly and have a plan in place for repairs or replacement if necessary. With proper care and maintenance, solar PV panels can withstand the most severe weather conditions.
Solar PV Panel Resilience Against Extreme Weather Conditions
A few recent hailstorms and hurricanes illustrate how solar panels can withstand the force of a storm. The leading solar panel manufacturers have long recognized the necessity of solar panels that can stand up to extreme weather conditions such as hail and high winds. In reality, many manufacturers test and certify that their solar panels can withstand a hail of up to 1 inch in diameter, which falls at 50 miles per hour.The latest solar panels are extremely durable against heavy rain and high winds. The majority of solar panels are tested to withstand hurricane-force winds. Additionally, the glass and aluminum casings used to hold solar panels' solar cells are highly waterproof, even during heavy rain.The National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) located in Golden, Colorado can confirm the durability of solar panels in extreme weather. NREL is the home of an immense solar energy system that consists of 3,168 ground- and rooftop-mounted solar panels. In 2017, a massive hailstorm affected the greater Denver region and the NREL campus.Despite hailstones as large as 2.75 inches wide reported in the area and the numerous vehicles and windows damaged, only one of the facility's solar panels suffered damage. This is a significant testament to the durability of the solar system.
Can severe hail storms break solar PV panels?
Can severe hail storms break solar PV panels? The answer is yes, intense hail storms can break solar PV panels. Solar PV panels are made of glass and metal, so they are vulnerable to damage from high winds and hail. In addition, solar PV panels are often installed on roofs, which means they are also at risk of being damaged by flying debris. If a solar PV panel is broken, it will need to be replaced. However, severe hail storms are relatively rare, so the likelihood of a solar panel being damaged by one is fairly low. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install solar PV panels in an area where severe weather is a concern is a personal one.
How do I know if my solar panels have hail damage?
How do I know if my solar panels have hail damage? An evident drop in solar panel performance after an intense hailstorm is probably an indication that your solar panels are damaged.Hail damage to solar panels is not always visible from the ground. If you suspect your solar panels may have been damaged by hail, the best way to confirm this is to contact a qualified solar installer or roofing contractor. They will be able to inspect your panels and look for signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or missing pieces. In some cases, hail damage may be covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. If you do have insurance coverage, be sure to follow the claims process carefully to ensure that you receive the full benefit of your policy.
What do you do if your panels are damaged?
If you have solar PV panels installed on your property, it's important to be aware of the potential for damage from hail storms. While most solar panels are designed to withstand moderate hail impact, severe storms can cause serious damage.Here are the steps you need to do if your panels are damaged by a hail storm.
- Contact your solar panel installation team.
If you notice any indications of damage after a storm, it's important to contact your solar panel installation team right away. They will be able to assess the damage and determine if the panels need to be repaired or replaced. In most cases, solar panels can be repaired relatively easily and quickly, but in some cases, replacement may be necessary. Either way, it's important to get the issue assessed as soon as possible to avoid any further damage.
- Prepare your backup energy source so that you can still have power while the solar panels are being repaired.
If your solar PV panels are damaged in a hail storm, you'll need another power source until the panels are repaired. There are a few options for backup energy sources such as generators or batteries. If you choose to use a generator, it should be maintained and serviced, ready to go. Battery systems are another option. They can be standalone or connected to the grid. Whichever option you choose, you should know how to use it. That way, you'll be prepared and won't have to go without power while the panels are being repaired.
- Contact your homeowner's insurance policy provider to see if the damage is covered under your policy.
Many policies will cover damage from severe weather, but it is always best to check with your provider to be sure. If the damage is not covered by your policy, you may still be able to file a claim with your state's insurance commissioner or take other legal action. However, if the damage is covered by your policy, you will likely be responsible for paying a deductible before the insurance company begins to cover the repair cost. In either case, it is important to document the damage with photos and receipts so that you can be reimbursed for any losses.
Contact EcoPlex to install or repair your solar panels
Here at EcoPlex, we understand the importance of solar PV panels. Not only do they provide a clean and renewable source of energy, but they can also help to reduce your carbon footprint. However, solar PV panels are also susceptible to damage from hail storms. If your solar PV panels have been damaged in a hail storm, contact EcoPlex today. We specialize in solar panel repair and installation, and we can help to get your solar PV system back up and running in no time.
