Solar panels have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to generate clean and renewable energy. However, there are concerns about how well solar panels can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hailstorms. Hail can cause significant damage to roofs, windows, and other exterior surfaces, and solar panels are no exception.
What is hail and why is it a concern for solar panels?
Hail is a type of precipitation that forms when strong updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops high into the atmosphere, freezing them into ice pellets. Hailstones can range in size from tiny pea-sized pellets to large grapefruits, and they can fall at very high speeds, causing significant damage to anything in their path. When hailstones strike a solar panel, they can crack or shatter the tempered glass surface, which can lead to reduced efficiency and even complete failure of the panel.
The hail resistant solar panels
Solar panels are made up of multiple layers, including the glass surface, the solar cells, and the backsheet. Each layer contributes to the overall strength and durability of the panel, and manufacturers take great care to ensure that their panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including hailstorms.
One of the key factors in determining the impact resistance of a solar panel is the thickness of the glass surface. Most solar panels have tempered glass with a thickness of 3.2mm or more. This class is designed to be strong enough to resist impacts from small to medium-sized hailstones without cracking or breaking.
Another important factor is the quality of the solar cells themselves. High-quality solar cells are less likely to crack or shatter when impacted by hailstones. In addition, some manufacturers use a special encapsulation process that helps to protect the solar cells from damage, even in extreme weather conditions.
How to determine the hail resistance of a solar panel
The hail resistance of a solar panel is typically measured using a test known as the “impact test.” During this test, a steel ball is dropped onto the center of the solar panel from a height of one meter. The panel is then inspected for any cracks or other damage. Panels that pass this test are considered to be hail-resistant and can withstand impacts from hailstones up to a certain size.
The results of the impact test are typically expressed in terms of the “hail rating” of the solar panel. Hail ratings range from 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating greater hail resistance. A hail rating of 3 is generally considered to be sufficient for most areas, but if you live in an area that is prone to frequent or severe hailstorms, you may want to consider a panel with a higher hail rating.
Tips for protecting your solar panel system from hail damage
While solar panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including hailstorms, there are still some steps you can take to help protect your system from damage. Here are a few tips:
Choose a panel with a high hail rating: As we mentioned earlier, panels with higher hail ratings are more resistant to damage from hailstones. If you live in an area that is prone to severe hailstorms, consider investing in a panel with a higher hail rating.
Install your panels at the correct angle: Panels that are installed at an angle are less likely to be damaged by hailstones than those that are installed flat on a roof. The angle of your panels will depend on your location and the time of year, so be sure to consult with your installer to determine the best angle for your panels.
Regular maintenance and inspections of your solar panels can also help to identify any damage from hailstorms. If you do experience hail damage to your solar panels, it’s essential to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible to ensure they continue to function properly.
The hail resistance of solar panels is an important consideration when choosing solar panels for your home or business. If you choose the right hail resistant solar panels first, you can contact Sungold. Sungold has 15 years of experience in manufacturing solar panels. Their innovation and quality control of solar panels is excellent.
Your most sincere solar partner – Sungold.
