Manufacturers of solar panels design their products to be highly durable since they are exposed to various weather conditions outdoors. Solar panels are durable enough to withstand hurricanes and severe weather conditions. Fortunately, you typically don’t have to be concerned about hurricanes harming your solar panels since they are designed to withstand extreme conditions. However, taking precautions is essential to ensure your safety ahead of any impending tropical storms.
What is the lifespan of solar panels?
Although solar panels appear fragile because they contain glass, the robust, thick tempered glass used in their construction is quite durable. Solar panels constructed from monocrystalline silicon are more prevalent and tend to have a longer lifespan. Monocrystalline silicon is produced by melting pure silicon, forming it into bars, and then cutting those bars into thin wafers. Your solar panels’ performance improves with the silicon’s purity.
Phoenix Energy Products LLC offers solar panels produced with durable monocrystalline silicon, similar to those made by Maxeon (previously known as SunPower), REC, and Mission Solar. This results in their increased durability compared to solar panels from around the globe. Solar panels from these companies last a long time and maintain their efficiency quickly. Producers thoroughly evaluate their solar panels and seek assessments from independent specialists to ensure they can withstand harsh hurricane conditions, including fierce winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall.
Where Do Hurricanes Strike?
Hurricanes that strike the U. S usually hit the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, and they can move 100 to 200 miles into the land. Hurricanes also strike Puerto Rico, which is part of the U. S. Virgin Islands, Hawaii, and other U.S. areas in the Pacific Ocean. Although it’s not common, they have the potential to impact the Southwest part of the United States. It’s likely not a shock that Florida experiences more hurricanes than any other state in the U.S. The geographic situation of being nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean dramatically increases the likelihood of encountering tropical storms from either direction. Florida has experienced 41% of the total 292 hurricanes recorded since the Saffir-Simpson Scale was introduced in 1851 to assess hurricane strength.
In terms of ranking, Texas is positioned right beneath Florida. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, where some of the strongest tropical storms form, enhances the chances of experiencing a strike.
How Do Solar Delegations Get Influenced by Hurricanes?
How Rain Affects Solar Panels
Rain does not pose a significant risk to the functionality of solar panels. Solar panels and their connectors are durable and designed to withstand water exposure. You don’t have to worry about them breaking when the rain starts to fall. The rainwater that collects on your solar panels can contribute to increased energy production. Water behaves like a reflective surface, allowing raindrops to capture light and generate additional energy once the sun reappears. Rain aids in removing dirt and grime from solar panels. This enables them to remain clean, allowing for maximum sunlight absorption.
How Wind Affects Solar Panels
The majority of solar panels are designed to endure wind pressures of up to 2,400 pascals, equivalent to a wind speed of 140 miles per hour. The top manufacturers create solar panel systems with careful consideration of the regional wind patterns. According to the National Hurricane Center, hurricanes categorized as Category 3 or above are deemed significant hurricanes in the United States. Hurricanes of greater strength occur less frequently. A Category 3 hurricane features sustained wind speeds ranging from 111 to 129 miles per hour. Your solar panel system is designed to withstand powerful winds and endure hurricane conditions.
Effects of Hail on Solar Panels
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels are surprisingly resilient against even substantial hailstones. From 2009 to 2013, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory examined 50,000 solar panel installations. They found that only 0. 1% of these systems had problems with damage or not working well each year. This is because reputable manufacturers inspect their panels to withstand extreme weather conditions. All manufactured solar panels are required to be tested and possess a safety certification from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or a comparable entity if they originate from outside the United States. The UL certification indicates that the solar panel has undergone testing for durability, safety, and overall quality.
Can solar panels and batteries function during hurricanes?
Solar panels are capable of producing electricity despite heavy rain and overcast skies during hurricane events. Your solar panels at home can convert sunlight into electricity anytime they’re exposed to light, whether directly or indirectly.
The destructive nature of hurricanes often results in downed power lines, which causes blackouts. States, including Florida, mandate that individuals with solar panels connect their systems to the power grid. During a power outage, solar systems must cease electricity generation to protect electricians working on the power lines. If you reside in a region where hurricanes or adverse weather frequently lead to power interruptions, having a backup battery for your entire home, such as a Tesla Powerwall, is advantageous.
How to Get Your Solar Panels Ready for a Hurricane
Your local meteorological center will alert you about an approaching hurricane. You don’t have to take solar panels down from the ground, wall, or roof. Indeed, they can provide protection for your roof from the effects of storms.
Before the arrival of a hurricane, document your solar panel system with notes and pictures to assess any potential damage afterward. Solar panels represent a financial investment comparable to other purchases you make. Providing evidence will strengthen your case when seeking insurance coverage. Keeping both printed and digital versions of documents is a wise choice if you need to share them with your provider. The majority of solar warranty plans cover the equipment, labor, and repairs related to your system for 25 years in the event of damage, theft, or loss.
How to Check Your Solar Panels After a Hurricane
After a hurricane, it’s crucial to inspect your solar panel system for any signs of damage. Assessing solar panels on rooftops is more challenging than evaluating those installed on walls or the ground. Make sure to contact the service and maintenance team if you need assistance with repairing your solar panels.
Connect with PEP Solar for reliable solar panel solutions.
Contact us to learn more about PEP Solar and discover how our premium solar panels can withstand hurricane conditions. You can either speak with a solar expert or submit our form to receive a price quote and free consultation.