By now you’ve probably read that solar panels are pretty durable. They’re not very easy to break and they last for a long time. But surely if the weather is severe enough, they’re bound to get damaged, right? Hailstorms, in particular, can be severely damaging to cars and houses or anything left outside. In fact, the largest hailstone ever recorded was 8 inches in diameter and weighed 1 lb. 15 oz. If you live in an area susceptible to hailstorms, like Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado, you may be hesitant to install solar panels. Yes, It’s true that in Northern California we don’t have too many massive hailstorms — but every once in a while they pass over. So it’s still important to know: Can solar panels withstand hailstorms?
Solar Panels and Hailstorms
Solar panels withstand hailstorms very well. This is due to the extensive testing manufacturers conduct to ensure the durability of their solar products. Many solar panels are certified to withstand hail that is 1 inch in diameter, falling up to 50 miles per hour!
One great example that is often referred to is an intense hailstorm that hit Colorado in May 2017. The golf-ball-sized hail damaged the cars and buildings throughout the area. However, the solar panels at the nearby National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) held up extremely well during the storm. In fact, only 1 of their 3,168 solar panels broke, and the rest continued working at normal capacity once the storm passed. This is a huge testament to the durability of solar panels in a hailstorm.
Warranties and Insurance
You have insurance coverage options should a rare instance occur in which a severe hailstorm damages your solar panels. Many solar companies offer extended warranties and maintenance programs and will promptly replace your broken solar panel at no cost to you. You also have the option of covering your solar panels through your home insurance policy. So, if you live in an area with severe hailstorms, definitely chat with your solar and insurance companies about warranties and coverage.
If you would like more information about the durability of solar panels in a hailstorm, contact Aurora Energy today. Our Angels Camp, CA based solar consultants would love to assist you and answer any questions you may have.
