It is understandable to be concerned about how well solar panels will hold in extreme weather conditions, especially hurricanes. After all, these storms can be incredibly destructive, leaving behind widespread damage in their wake. Solar panel roofs withstand heavy weather conditions, including high winds and hail. Most manufacturers test their products to ensure they can withstand wind speeds up to 262 miles per hour.
But Let’s dig more deeper into how well solar panels can withstand hurricanes.
Solar panel roof are resistant to water damage.
Solar panel roofs have tempered glass that makes the panel stronger and prevents shattering or breaking. This type of glass is often used in car windshields because it can withstand high-impact collisions. The same principle applies to solar panels; the tempered glass will not break easily, even in hurricane-force winds.
In addition, solar panels have an airtight seal around their electrical components. Even if water penetrates the tempered glass, it will not reach the electrical components and cause damage. It will continue to generate electricity.
Solar panel roof will be secure in high winds if installed correctly.
You might be wondering if solar panels can withstand water damage. Will it hold for high winds as well? The answer is yes, but only if they are correctly installed. That’s because you must adequately secure solar panels to your roof to withstand high winds. If there is improper solar panel installation, they could become dislodged and blow away in strong winds.
It is important to note that while solar panels can withstand hurricane-force winds, you cannot say the same for the entire solar system. The components that make up the system, such as the inverter and batteries, are not as durable as the panels themselves. Having your solar system installed by a solar panel company that knows how to secure all components in preparation for extreme weather conditions properly is essential.
The Advantages of Rain on Solar Panel Roofs: Grime Removal
Hurricanes come with rain, and while this may seem like a disadvantage, it can be pretty beneficial to solar panel roof. That’s because the rain can help wash away any dirt or grime accumulated on the panels over time. It can improve the efficiency of the panels since they will be able to absorb more sunlight. Although solar panels produce the most energy when receiving direct sunlight, they can still generate 10%-25% of their maximum power from indirect or diffused light on rainy days. It means that solar panels are waterproof and weatherproof products.
Solar Panel Roof Withstood the Fury of the Storm.
Solar panel roof has proven their mettle during the storm. Here are some of the more noteworthy occurrences:
- While other areas of the electric grid broke down during Hurricane Florence’s strong winds and historic rain, North Carolina’s solar farms withstood the storm with minor damage.[1]
- Thousands of New Jersey residents with solar energy systems were preparing for the worst when Hurricane Sandy hit in 2012. Even though the storm severely affected the region, very few people reported any damage to their home solar panels or equipment. [2]
- Most solar panels withstood the harsh winds of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico in 2017. Even though the hurricane hit hard, a VA hospital in San Juan (one of the most damaged areas) operated at 100% due to its commercial-grade solar system.[3]
The Way To Survival Is Preparation
As you can see, solar panels can withstand some of nature’s most extreme conditions. However, it is essential to remember that no matter how durable they are, you must adequately prepare solar panels (and the entire solar system) for hurricanes and other severe weather events. It means having your system installed by a professional like Solaria Energy Solutions, who knows how to secure all the components properly and plan what to do if the power goes out. By taking these precautions, you can be sure that your solar panels will be able to weather any storm.
