Because solar panels are constantly exposed to the elements, manufacturers ensure that their systems are as robust as possible. Solar panels can withstand severe weather conditions like hurricanes.
Because solar panels are built to withstand extreme weather, you don’t need to worry about them being damaged by hail, hurricane winds, rain or even hail. However, you should take the necessary precautions to avoid any tropical storms.
HOW DURABLE ARE SOLAR PANELS?
Although solar panels may seem fragile because they are made from glass, high-quality, thick tempered glass is quite strong.
ESD Solar’s solar panels are made from monocrystalline silicon. They have a solid copper backing with thick connectors making them more durable than other solar panels in the world. ESD Solar solar panels have a longer life span and a lower degradation rate.
Manufacturers must also test and verify their products to make sure that they can withstand hurricanes and other severe weather conditions, such as large hail and high winds.
WHERE DO HURRICANES HIT?
The U.S. is often hit by hurricanes along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines. They can travel up to 100 to 200 miles inland. Hurricanes can also hit Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other territories in the Pacific Ocean. They can also hit the Southwest region of the United States, although they are rare.
It is not surprising that Florida has experienced the most hurricanes among all U.S. states. Because it is located between the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Atlantic Ocean, it is extremely vulnerable to tropical storms coming in from either direction. Florida has seen a staggering 41% in hurricanes since 1851.
Texas has the second-highest number of hurricanes, just one notch below Florida. Because it is located above the Gulf of Mexico (which is known for generating some of the most destructive tropical storms), it is more likely to be hit.
EFFECTS OF HURRICANE WEATHER ON SOLAR PANELS
RAIN ON SOLAR PANELS: EFFECTS
Solar panel systems are not affected by rain. The connectors and solar panels are waterproof and durable. They won’t rust in the rain.
Actually, residual rain droplets from your panels can have a positive impact on your energy generation. Water is reflective so these droplets will attract sunlight and increase energy generation after a rainstorm.
Rain can also be used to wash away dirt and debris from solar panels. This makes them more visible and allows for maximum sunlight absorption.
EFFECTS OF WIND OVER SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels are capable of handling wind speeds up to 2400 pascals. This is 140 mph. Solar panel systems designed by the best manufacturers are tuned to local wind patterns. The U.S. National Hurricane Center categorizes Category 3 Hurricanes as major hurricanes. The less often a hurricane occurs, the more severe it is.
Category 3 hurricanes typically experience sustained winds speeds of 111 to. Your solar panel system can withstand hurricanes and should be able to withstand these strong winds loads.
EFFECTS OF HAIL OVER SOLAR PANELS
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can withstand the most severe hailstones. Between 2009 and 2013, 50,000 solar panels were examined by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. It found that only .1% reported any damage to or underperformance each year.
Quality panel manufacturers test their panels for extreme weather conditions. Each manufactured solar panel must pass a stringent testing process and be able to show proof of Underwriters Laboratories certification or a variation thereof if it is made outside the United States. The UL certification certifies that the panel has been tested for safety and quality.
DO SOLAR PANELS & BATTERIES WORK DURING HURRICANES
Despite the storms and intense rains, solar panels can still produce energy. The panels of your system can absorb sunlight and generate electricity, as long as they are exposed to sunlight.
Hurricanes can cause grid damage, which can lead to power outages. Some states, such as Florida, require solar panel owners to connect to the grid. All solar systems must stop power generation in the event of an interruption to ensure the safety of electricians who are working to restore the grid.
This post was written by Daniel Massaad, owner and expert solar technician at Energy Solutions Direct! ESD is one of the premier Tampa solar companies! Our licensed and certified contractors are masters of their craft; with years of experience servicing the great Tampa Bay area and beyond, the choice is simple. ESD excels at offering you the best in solar value!
