As a homeowner or business owner with solar panels installed, ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your system is a priority. After a storm, it’s especially crucial to inspect your solar panels. Severe weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and lightning can cause unexpected damage, which may go unnoticed until the system begins to malfunction. Here’s why you should make inspecting your solar panels a part of your post-storm routine.
1. Weather Damage Can Affect Solar Panel Efficiency
Solar panels are built to withstand various weather conditions, but extreme storms can cause unexpected wear and tear. Wind, debris, and hail can impact the surface of the panels, resulting in scratches, cracks, or dents. Any minor damage can reduce the efficiency of the panels, leading to lower energy production. Without proper inspection, you may not realize that your solar system is underperforming, which could lead to increased energy costs.
2. Roof Damage Can Impact Your Solar Installation
The condition of your roof plays a significant role in the safety of your solar panels. High winds or heavy rainfall can cause roof damage, which, in turn, may affect the installation of your solar system. If your roof tiles or shingles are loose, damaged, or missing, the mounting brackets for the solar panels may also be compromised. Any disruption to the roof’s structure can put your solar panels at risk, leading to potential costly repairs.
3. Electrical Components Could Be Affected by Moisture
Heavy rainfall and flooding can potentially cause electrical issues with your solar system. Water can seep into wiring, connectors, and junction boxes, which may lead to electrical shorts or system failure. Even if your panels appear intact, the internal electrical components could be damaged by moisture. Inspecting these components after a storm ensures that everything is dry and functioning correctly.
4. Lightning Strikes Can Damage Your System
Lightning strikes are another storm-related risk that can have a serious impact on your solar panels. If lightning strikes your property or a nearby area, it can send electrical surges through the system, potentially damaging the inverter, wiring, or panels themselves. While some solar systems come with surge protectors, it’s still important to inspect your system to identify any signs of damage.
5. Maintaining the Longevity of Your Solar Panels
Regular post-storm inspections are essential for ensuring the longevity of your solar panels. A small problem detected early can be addressed before it turns into a more significant, more costly issue. By maintaining the integrity of your system, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to provide efficient, renewable energy for years to come.
How to Inspect Your Solar Panels After a Storm
While it’s important to perform visual checks for any obvious damage such as cracks or loose components, it’s recommended to have a professional solar technician conduct a thorough inspection. They can identify any hidden issues, assess the functionality of the system, and make necessary repairs.
Don’t wait until your energy bills start increasing or your solar system starts underperforming. Schedule a professional solar panel inspection after any storm to ensure your system remains in peak condition. Contact us at Efficient Home Services to book an inspection today! Your solar system’s efficiency and longevity are worth the peace of mind!
This post was written by a professional at EHS. Efficient Home Services of St. Petersburg FL is a solar energy company offering a variety of services. At Efficient Home Services of Florida, our mission is to save you money on your solar panel inspection in Florida. No other home energy company serving Florida offers the range of cost-saving solutions that we do. Whereas other businesses might focus on one component of a home’s energy use, such as solar panel installation or HVAC unit installation, EHS provides services across the spectrum to address every aspect of your home’s energy inefficiencies. We are a team of knowledgeable professionals who banded together to give homeowners what other companies promised but could not deliver – real relief from high electric bills.
