Top Tips to Save Solar Panels from Hailstorm

1. Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Proactive care is paramount in ensuring the longevity of your solar panels. Before the hailstorm season even begins, make it a habit to regularly inspect your panels for any existing cracks, loose mountings, or signs of wear and tear. Addressing these minor issues can prevent them from escalating during a severe weather event. Ensure that the racking system is securely fastened and that there are no loose components that could be further compromised by the impact of hail. Influx Energy recommends scheduling professional maintenance checks at least once a year to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

2. Consider Protective Covers or Films

While not a standard practice for all installations, exploring protective measures can offer an extra layer of defense against a hailstorm. Specialized tempered glass covers or durable protective films can be installed over your solar panels. These are designed to absorb some of the impact from hailstones, reducing the risk of damage to the panel’s surface. When considering such options, ensure they are specifically designed for solar panels and won’t significantly reduce their energy efficiency. Influx Energy can provide information on reputable suppliers of such protective solutions.

3. Angle Matters: Optimize Panel Tilt

The angle at which your solar panels are installed can influence their susceptibility to hailstorm damage. Panels installed at a steeper angle may allow hailstones to glance off more easily, reducing the direct impact force. While the optimal tilt angle for energy generation is usually fixed, understanding this principle can be helpful during installation. If you live in an area prone to severe hailstorms, discussing the tilt angle with your installer from Influx Energy might offer a slight advantage in mitigating potential damage.

4. Insurance Coverage is Essential

Despite taking all necessary precautions, the unpredictable nature of a severe hailstorm means that damage can still occur. Having adequate insurance coverage is therefore crucial. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it covers damage to solar panels caused by natural disasters, including hailstorms. Understand the terms and conditions of your policy, including deductibles and claim procedures. Influx Energy advises all its customers to have comprehensive insurance coverage for their solar installations.

5. Monitor Weather Forecasts and Take Action

Staying informed about upcoming weather conditions is a simple yet effective way to prepare for a potential hailstorm. Pay close attention to local weather forecasts and alerts. While you can’t physically move your solar panels, knowing that a severe storm is approaching allows you to take other precautionary measures, such as securing any loose outdoor items that could be blown into your panels.

6. Post-Hailstorm Inspection and Documentation

After a hailstorm, even if you don’t see any immediate damage, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection of your solar panels. Look for cracks, dents, or any other signs of impact. Test the performance of your system to ensure it’s still operating efficiently. Document any damage with photographs and contact your insurance provider and Influx Energy for guidance on repairs or replacements. Prompt action can prevent minor damage from worsening over time.

6. Conclusion

Protecting your solar panels from a hailstorm involves a combination of proactive maintenance, considering protective measures, understanding installation angles, ensuring adequate insurance, staying informed about weather forecasts, and conducting thorough post-storm inspections. By implementing these top tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure the long-term performance of your investment with Influx Energy.

Looking to get started? Influx Energy is your partner in clean, affordable energy. Contact Influx Energy today for a free consultation and take the first step toward powering your home with the sun,