Can solar panels withstand weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow or hail?
If you are looking to install or already have solar panels installed on your property, one question that may have crossed your mind is whether your panels can withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow or hail. It’s understandable to be concerned about how the weather will impact your solar panels, especially if you live in an area that experiences severe weather or hailstorms. In this blog post, we will explore the resilience of solar panels in adverse weather conditions.
Solar Panels' Durability
The good news is that modern solar panels are highly durable and designed to withstand most adverse weather conditions. Solar panels are made to last for around 25 to 30 years, and most manufacturers ensure that they are tested against harsh weather conditions before putting them out for sale. Solar panels are even tested against thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and snow that can occur during bad weather.
Heavy Rain
Rainfall has no adverse effects on solar panels’ performance, with some studies actually indicating that heavy rain can even help clean your panels. Solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain. They are sealed, watertight, and protected from moisture, meaning that even during heavy rain, there is no chance that water might penetrate the panels.
Snow
Solar panels can safely operate above the ground during the winter season, and the efficiency of solar panels is likely to be higher when it is cold because the sunlight is reflected on the snow. Panels are angled to make sure that there is no buildup of snow and so, they continue to generate electricity during the winter season.
Hail
Hail is one of the most feared weather conditions as it can cause severe damage to roofs and other fragile surfaces. However, solar panels can withstand hailstorms as long as they have optimal thickness or durable frames. Solar panels go through tests to check if they can withstand the impact of severe hailstorms, and panels can pass these tests if they have strong frames and high impact energy.
In conclusion, if you're planning to have solar panels installed, rest assured that they are designed to withstand weather conditions such as rain, snow, and hail. While natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can happen, solar panels are built with durability in mind, and with proper installation, they can last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. When deciding to install solar panels, ensure that you choose high-quality solar panels and a reputable installation expert, to ensure that they work optimally for years to come. We hope that this post has given you some confidence in your solar panel’s durability, and you can proceed to harness the power of the sun, no matter what the weather may bring.