Solar Panels Weathering a Storm

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Solar panels can be big cost-cutters - but they can also be a big investment. Many homeowners worry about protecting these costly devices from the risks of water, wind, and storms in general. If you’re worried about panel damage after a serious storm at your home, there’s good news. Keep reading to learn how your panels have been built to withstand everything from heavy storms and everything they can bring.

About Solar Energy

Typically mounted on houses in sunny regions, these panels work by harnessing photons - or particles of light - and transforming them into inexpensive electricity. The three main types of panels are:

• Monocrystalline, which incorporate a single silicon crystal
• Polycrystalline, which incorporate multiple fragments of silicon crystals
• Thin-film amorphous, which are made from a variety of materials beyond silicon
  
  

Resilient Technology

Fortunately, panel damage is a rarity due to current manufacturing standards. Most panels are built to be waterproof and extremely durable, ensuring they can withstand a variety of conditions. For instance, most panels are made to endure hail falling as fast as 50 miles per hour. Panels are also usually made to withstand winds of up to 140 miles per hour, virtually guaranteeing your panels will make it through even the harshest storms.

Handling Unexpected Damage

Despite the testing and manufacturing standards your panels are exposed to there’s always the off chance of damage. When damage does occur, it’s usually due to debris striking a panel and damaging it. Should your panels be damaged, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Many times, the expense of repairing your panels can be covered.
Solar panels are durable and built to exacting standards. When storms are forecast, don’t lose sleep over potential panel damage. Instead, focus your attention on securing more vulnerable areas of your property before a storm, and handling things like general roof damage and flood cleanup afterward.

For all your storm damage needs, call SERVPRO of Suffolk/Smithfield/Franklin, 757-934-8404.