Ben Piper
As the month of June approaches, many regions are bracing for the onset of storm season, which can pose a threat to your solar panels if not properly prepared. While it's important to prepare your home and property for the potential impact of severe weather, it's also crucial to consider how your solar panels may get affected.
In this article, we'll explore the steps you can take to prepare your solar panels for the upcoming storms. Whether you're a new solar panel owner, or a seasoned pro, these tips will help protect your panels and avoid costly damage.
Check your solar panels
Before the storm arrives, it's important to inspect your solar panels before the storm season for several reasons. First, any damage or debris on your panels can pose a serious risk during a storm. Strong winds and heavy rain can exacerbate existing damage, such as cracks or chips, and cause irreparable harm. Additionally, debris like branches or leaves can accumulate on or around the panels, which can also cause damage if left unchecked. By inspecting them and clearing away any debris, you can help ensure they're in good working order and ready to withstand the upcoming storms.
Furthermore, loose wiring or connections can also cause problems with your solar panel system's performance, even in mild weather conditions. These issues may not be immediately noticeable, but can accumulate over time and ultimately impact your system's efficiency and effectiveness. By checking for loose wires or connections and tightening them up, you can improve the performance and longevity of your solar panel system.
Inspecting your solar panels before the storm season can help you avoid costly repairs and protect your investment. It's a simple but crucial step in preparing for the upcoming storms.
In addition to the tips mentioned above, we encourage you to reach out to a solar provider for further guidance and assistance in preparing your solar panels for the storm season. Our team of experts is available to provide personalized advice and support to ensure that your solar panel system is well-prepared to withstand any potential storms.
Secure your solar panels
Securing your solar panels is an essential step to ensure their longevity and functionality, especially during storm season. Solar panels are typically installed on rooftops or open areas, and are constantly exposed to the elements. During high winds or severe weather, solar panels can be dislodged or damaged, which can result in expensive repairs or replacements. In addition, if a solar panel becomes dislodged during a storm, it can pose a risk to people and property below. Therefore, securing your solar panels is crucial to protect both your investment and the safety of others.
Here are some of the steps you can take to prevent or minimize the risk of damage during a storm and ensure their performance over the next few years:
Check the mounting system: Make sure the mounting system of your solar panels is properly secured and tightened. The mounting system includes the brackets, rails, and fasteners that hold the panels in place. If any components are loose or damaged, tighten or replace them as needed.
Reinforce the mounting system: Consider adding additional support to the mounting system to make it more resistant to high winds or extreme weather. You can reinforce the system with hurricane clips or brackets, or add ballast weight to the system to keep it in place.
Trim nearby trees: Trim any trees or branches that could potentially fall onto your solar panels during a storm. Falling branches or trees can cause significant damage to your panels, so it's important to keep them trimmed and away from your solar panel system.
Install surge protection: Lightning strikes can cause power surges that can damage your solar panels and other electronics in your home. Installing surge protection can help prevent damage from power surges during a storm.
Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect your solar panels for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your solar panel system and ensure its optimal performance.
To learn more about how to protect your solar panels during storm season, get in touch with our knowledgeable professionals and remember proactive preparation and maintenance are key to minimizing the risk of damage and maximizing the benefits of your solar panels.