Solar panels are incredibly durable and are built to withstand a lot of exposure to the elements. But if you’ve had a recent windstorm at your house, it’s normal to worry about the impact on your panels. Keep reading to learn more about how you should inspect your solar panels—and why it’s important to do it after a storm.
Why Post-Storm Inspections Matter
After a windstorm, your solar panels might have endured some extreme conditions that can impact their performance and structural integrity. Even if they appear fine from the ground at first glance, hidden issues like loose connections, micro-fractures, or mounting damage can lead to reduced energy production and even safety hazards. Inspecting your panels soon after a storm helps you catch and resolve problems early, ensuring your solar power system continues to deliver the highest performance possible.
How to Inspect Your Panels
Now that you understand why inspecting your panels is important, you might be wondering how to do it properly. Here’s what you need to know:
- Prioritize Your Safety: A rooftop inspection can be dangerous, especially after a storm that could leave your roof slick and scattered with debris. Take the time to ensure that you’re doing your inspection safely; if you’re unsure about the stability of your roof or your ability to inspect the panels safely, hire a professional.
- Look for Visible Damage: Start by checking the surface of your panels for any clear damage. This usually includes things like cracks or broken glass on the panel surface, loose panels, debris buildup, and damaged frames or mounts, which can sometimes shift in strong winds. Take photos of any damage you find, as that can be useful for warranty claims or insurance purposes.
- Check Electrical Components: Inspect the wiring, conduit, and inverter connections if you can access them. Windstorms can dislodge or loosen electrical connections, which can lead to inefficiency or fire risk. If you notice frayed wires or water intrusion, contact a technician for repairs.
- Monitor System Performance: If you’re not comfortable inspecting your panels yourself, another option is to use your solar monitoring app regularly in the days after the storm. Keep an eye out for any sudden drops in performance, that might be a sign of underlying damage that you can’t see from the ground. Compare the output to previous weeks to give you a clearer idea of your panels’ condition.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Leaving solar panel damage unaddressed can lead to long-term inefficiency in your system or even more extensive repairs down the road. Getting inspections regularly can also help to preserve your panel warranty and prevent further degradation. If there is extensive damage, speak to a solar equipment distributor about Trina solar panels for sale.
