Solar power systems can help you become energy independent and lower your carbon footprint. If you’re considering going solar or have already made the switch, you might be curious about how solar panels hold up in bad weather, especially if you live in an area with hurricanes and hailstorms. The good news is that solar panels are tougher than you might expect. In this blog, we’ll discuss solar panels' durability and ability to withstand hurricanes and extreme weather conditions.
Hurricanes and Extreme Weather in the United States
Climate change has been causing more extreme weather worldwide, leading to more intense hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. These weather conditions can seriously damage equipment and cause lost income from power outages for solar projects.
Hurricanes in the United States usually strike the Gulf of Mexico coasts and the Atlantic Ocean, but they can also move 100-200 miles inland. They can hit places like Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and other United States territories near the Pacific. While it’s rare, they can affect the Southwest U.S. too.
It’s no surprise that Florida gets hit by the largest number of hurricanes of any U.S. state. Its location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico makes it open to tropical storms coming from either direction.
Texas comes in just after Florida. It’s more likely to get hit since it sits right above the Gulf of Mexico, which creates some of the worst tropical storms.
The Durability of Solar Panels in Extreme Weather Conditions
Solar panels might look delicate since some are made of glass, but the thick tempered glass used in high-quality panels is tough. Most solar panels are made of monocrystalline silicon, which is durable. They make monocrystalline silicon by melting pure silicon, shaping it into bars, and cutting it into wafers. The purer the silicon, the better your solar panels work. Manufacturers test their products thoroughly and get third-party verification to show that their solar panels can handle hurricane conditions like strong winds, big hail, and heavy rain.
How Hurricanes and Other Extreme Weather Affect Solar Panels
Here’s how extreme weather conditions affect solar panels:
Effects of Rain on Solar Panels
Rain doesn’t affect solar panels. Solar panel systems are tough and waterproof, so you don’t have to be concerned about them breaking apart when it rains. The leftover raindrops on your solar panels can help generate more energy. Water reflects light, so those rain droplets can boost energy production once the sun returns after the rainstorm. Plus, rain helps wash away dirt and debris from the panels, keeping them clean and ready to soak up sunlight.
How Wind Affects Solar Panels
Hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms bring strong winds that can damage trees, buildings, and power lines. If you’re considering getting a solar system, it’s good to know that most solar panel systems sold in the U.S. can handle winds up to 140 mph. When solar panels get damaged in high winds, it usually happens because of the racking system or debris flying around.
Most solar panels can hold up during Category 3 hurricanes, which have maximum wind speeds of 129 mph. Some even withstand Category 4 hurricanes with winds between 130-156 mph. There are plenty of stories of homes with solar panels making it through hurricanes and still providing power afterwards. Homeowners should check how durable solar panels are before buying them.
Florida gets the most hurricanes that hit land in the U.S. The state requires solar panels to handle winds of 160 mph, which is enough for Category 4 hurricanes. Solar panels can also stand up to strong winds in tornado-prone areas. Tornadoes, mostly found in central states like Texas and South Dakota, can happen anywhere in the U.S. Solar panels can handle F0 and F1 tornadoes, with winds between 40 and 112 mph. Some F2 tornadoes, with winds between 113-157 mph, might not damage solar panels either.
Hail and Solar Panels
Many people think hail can damage solar panels, but they hold up well against heavy hailstones.
Quality manufacturers ensure their panels can handle tough weather by rigorously testing them. Every solar panel must pass tests and have evidence of Underwriters Laboratories certification or a similar certification if made outside the United States. This certification shows that the panel has been checked for safety, durability, and quality.
Solar Systems in Extreme Cold and Hot Weather
Both extreme heat and cold can affect how well solar energy systems work. Solar panels work best when temperatures are between 60°F and 95°F, but most high-quality panels can handle temperatures from -40°F to 150°F.
Snow on Solar Panels
Snow can block sunlight from reaching solar panels, reducing electricity production. However, because most solar panels are on sloped roofs, snow usually slides off when the sun shines or over time, often faster than on other roof types.
If a lot of snow builds up, you can clear it off your solar panels yourself to prevent damage. If you live in a snowy area, consider getting a special broom or brush with a long handle to safely clear the panels while standing on the ground, away from falling snow.
How to Get Your Solar Panels Ready for a Hurricane
If a hurricane is coming, you’ll likely get a warning from the local weather station.
There’s no need to take your solar panels down from the wall, ground, or roof since they can help shield your roof from storm damage. You should record your solar panel system's appearance before a hurricane hits, in preparation for any damage that may happen. Solar panel systems are an investment like anything else, and having evidence will help when you seek insurance coverage.
Keep hard copies and digital photos handy to show your provider. Most insurance plans cover labor, equipment, and repairs or routine maintenance due to loss, damage, or loss, for up to 25 years.
If you’re part of a homeowners association, contact them soon to get information about hail coverage, rain, and wind from a storm.
How to Protect Your Solar Panels from Hurricanes
Solar panels are designed to be tough. But as anyone who’s lived through a hurricane knows, they can throw more than just wind and rain your way. Flying debris, intense hail, and flooding can all put your system to the test.
If you’re using portable solar panels, the good news is you can usually fold them up and bring them inside before the storm hits. But if your system is fixed to your roof, you must take a few smart precautions to protect your investment.
Here are some simple steps to help you get ready and minimize potential damage during bad weather:
Take Photos of the Solar Panels Before the Storm
Take detailed photos of your solar panels before a bad storm or hurricane hits. Pictures will help you document their condition in case the storm causes any damage. These pictures can be really helpful when you file insurance claims, proving how things looked before the storm and speeding up the claims process. Take clear, wide-angle shots of the panels, inverters, batteries, and other gear. Add timestamps to keep an accurate record of how your system looked right before the storm, if you can.
Shut Down Your System
Next, shut down the whole solar panel system and the electricity coming into your building or home. Detach the equipment at your power switch and turn off your circuit breakers. Disconnecting the devices at this stage reduces the risk of being damaged from power surges during the harsh weather.
Store Your Equipment
Tracking systems are great for making solar panels more efficient, but they can catch the wind during strong storms or hurricanes. Strong winds can lift solar panels off their mounts, leading to serious damage. To help prevent this, it’s a good idea to set your tracking system to a neutral position before the storm hits. That means adjusting the panels so they’re no longer following the sun, which makes them less likely to catch the wind.
If your system is portable or has removable parts, follow the company's instructions to store them securely.
Seal All Parts
Any cracks in your power system can lead to serious water damage following a hurricane. It’s a good idea to check your panels regularly, especially before a hurricane is expected to hit. Taking small steps before the storm will help prevent water from seeping into the electrical parts.
Secure Connections
Check that your fasteners and clasps are tight, particularly if you have fixed solar panels. Make sure the attachments holding the frame are secure.
It might be tricky if you haven’t checked certain areas or are working on them for a while. Your system should have been installed following strict guidelines to protect your wiring and panels. Make sure they still are.
If you have flexible solar panels, you probably won’t have a metal frame. Installers just use adhesive for the thin-film panels. Check this adhesive every several months to guarantee that it’s secure and won’t blow away in strong winds.
Check the Gutters and Drainage Ditches
Water can damage your equipment more than just seeping through a ruined panel. Clogged drainage areas can retain water that leaks into your gear. Ensure all the channels are clear so water can flow away from your system.
Clear Away Loose Objects
Before a storm, look around your solar panel setup for loose tools, equipment, or other items. Strong winds can easily pick these up and turn them into dangerous projectiles that could damage your solar panel, inverters, or other system parts. Even small things like garden tools, debris, or furniture can be hazardous in high winds. Keep your system safe and secure, and move any loose items far from the installation area. Doing this will help avoid unnecessary damage and reduce repair costs after the storm.
Checking Your Solar Panels After a Hurricane
Once the storm passes, check your panels for any damage. Look for broken or cracked panels and loose mounting hardware. Snap some photos of any issues you find.
Solar panels can handle a lot of rough weather. Sometimes, heavy rain even helps them work better by washing them. But don’t just assume everything is fine; check for any movement or signs of damage to your panels and other parts.
When to Call an Expert
If you’ve cleared away debris and cleaned your panels but see any cracks or serious damage, it’s time to reach out to a pro. Don’t try to fix any damage yourself. If you don’t find any damage, but your solar panels aren’t performing well, that means they might need a professional check-up. Solar panels help homeowners save on energy bills, and there are plenty of tax credits and rebates available. Panels are generally easy to take care of, but keep an eye on them after a storm to make sure they keep working well.
A professional assessment might reveal problems you missed. Don’t rely on a casual assessment from someone who isn’t experienced; get an accredited technician to help you spot any issues that need fixing after the hurricane or storm.
Can Solar Panels and Batteries Work During Hurricanes?
It depends on what type of system you have. Solar panels can still produce energy even during heavy rain and clouds from hurricanes, as long as sunlight hits them directly or indirectly.
Regular solar systems connected to the grid shut down when the power goes out, even if the panels are still getting sunlight. This is to keep utility workers safe while they repair the lines. However, if you have a battery storage system or a special inverter that provides backup power, you can keep essential appliances running during an outage. That’s why many people in hurricane-prone areas invest in battery backup systems.
Should I Switch Off My Solar Panel System During a Hurricane?
Yes, you should. Before a hurricane arrives, make sure to turn off your system. Disconnecting the parts protects you from electricity surges and electrical damage.
Contact a Solar Panel Installation Company Near Me
Solar panels can handle hurricanes and extreme weather well when installed and properly cared for. They’re tough, help you be energy independent, and can provide backup power, making them a great investment for people in areas prone to hurricanes and other extreme weather conditions.
If you want to move forward with sustainable solar power solution, Sun Solar Electric is here for you. We provide solar panel installation services for homeowners and companies throughout Northern California and the Bay Area. Call us today at 707-658-2157 to speak to one of our representatives.
