Solar panels are a great way to harness renewable energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, to ensure they operate at peak efficiency, it’s essential to keep them clean. Dust, dirt, pollen, and bird droppings can accumulate on the panels and significantly reduce their ability to absorb sunlight. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean your solar panels effectively and safely.
Step 1: Safety First
1. Turn Off the System: Before you start cleaning, make sure to turn off your solar panel system. This step is crucial to avoid any electrical hazards. Refer to your system’s manual for instructions on how to safely shut it down.
2. Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for any specific cleaning recommendations or warnings. Some manufacturers may have specific cleaning methods or restrictions to avoid voiding the warranty.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
You don’t need any fancy equipment to clean solar panels. Here’s a list of basic supplies you’ll need:
- Soft brush or squeegee with a long extension
- Hose with a gentle spray nozzle
- Bucket of lukewarm water
- Mild detergent (if needed)
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Safety harness (if cleaning rooftop panels)
- Ladder (if necessary)
Step 3: Choose the Right Time
The best time to clean solar panels is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During these times, the panels are cooler, reducing the risk of thermal shock or damage from rapid temperature changes. Additionally, cleaning in cooler weather helps prevent the water from evaporating too quickly, which can leave streaks or residue.
Step 4: Remove Loose Debris
Start by removing any loose debris, such as leaves or twigs, from the surface of the panels. You can use a soft brush or a leaf blower for this task. Be gentle to avoid scratching the surface of the panels.
Step 5: Rinse with Water
Use a hose with a gentle spray nozzle to rinse the panels with water. This will help remove dust and loose dirt. Avoid using high-pressure water, as it can damage the panels or the wiring underneath.
Step 6: Clean with Soapy Water
Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the panels. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch or damage the panels.
Step 7: Rinse and Dry
After scrubbing, rinse the panels thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a squeegee to remove excess water and prevent streaks. If necessary, wipe the panels with a soft, dry cloth to ensure they are completely dry.
Step 8: Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect your solar panels for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or loose connections. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for repairs to ensure your system continues to operate safely and efficiently.
Step 9: Turn the System Back On
Once the panels are clean and dry, you can turn your solar panel system back on. Refer to your system’s manual for instructions on how to safely restart it.
Additional Tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your solar panels at least twice a year, or more frequently if you live in a particularly dusty or pollen-heavy area.
- Professional Cleaning: If you’re not comfortable cleaning the panels yourself or if they are difficult to access, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
- Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your system’s performance. If you notice a significant drop in energy production, it might be time for a cleaning or inspection.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your solar panels remain clean and efficient, maximizing their energy production and extending their lifespan. Happy cleaning!
Investing in residential solar panels is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and save on electricity costs. However, the amount of money you can save depends significantly on the number of sun hours your location receives. This blog post will explore how sun hours affect your solar savings and what factors you should consider when evaluating the potential benefits of residential solar.
Understanding Sun Hours
Sun hours, also known as peak sun hours, refer to the amount of sunlight a location receives in a day, measured in hours of maximum solar radiation. One peak sun hour is equivalent to 1,000 watts of solar energy per square meter of solar panel per hour. This metric is crucial because it directly impacts the amount of electricity your solar panels can generate.
Geographic Location
Your geographic location is the primary determinant of the number of sun hours you receive. Areas closer to the equator typically enjoy more consistent and intense sunlight throughout the year, leading to higher solar energy production. For example, southern states in the U.S., such as Arizona and California, receive more sun hours compared to northern states like Washington or New York.
Seasonal Variations
Sun hours can also vary with the seasons. In many regions, the summer months bring longer days and more intense sunlight, leading to higher solar energy production. Conversely, winter months have shorter days and less sunlight, which can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. Understanding these seasonal variations can help you estimate the annual solar output and potential savings.
Solar Panel Orientation and Tilt
The orientation and tilt of your solar panels can significantly impact the number of effective sun hours they receive. Ideally, solar panels should be installed facing true south in the northern hemisphere (or true north in the southern hemisphere) to maximize sun exposure. The tilt angle should be adjusted according to your latitude to capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the year.
Local Climate and Weather Patterns
Local climate and weather patterns also play a crucial role in determining sun hours. Areas with frequent cloudy or rainy days will have reduced sun hours compared to regions with clear, sunny skies. While occasional clouds won’t drastically affect your solar savings, consistently overcast conditions can lead to lower energy production and savings.
Shading and Obstructions
Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions can significantly reduce the number of sun hours your solar panels receive. Even partial shading can cause a disproportionate drop in solar panel efficiency. Conducting a thorough shading analysis before installation can help you identify and mitigate potential shading issues to maximize your sun hours and savings.
Calculating Solar Savings
To estimate your solar savings, you need to consider the average number of peak sun hours your location receives and the efficiency of your solar panels. Most solar panels have an efficiency rating that indicates the percentage of sunlight they can convert into electricity. By multiplying the average daily sun hours by the total capacity of your solar system and its efficiency, you can estimate the amount of electricity your system will generate.
For example, if you live in an area that receives an average of 5 peak sun hours per day, and you have a 5 kW solar system with an efficiency of 20%, your daily electricity generation would be:
5 hours/day × 5kW × 0.20 = 5kWh/day
5 hours/day×5 kW×0.20=5 kWh/day
By comparing this figure to your daily electricity consumption, you can estimate your potential savings.
Maximizing Your Solar Savings
To maximize your solar savings, consider the following tips:
- Optimal Installation: Ensure your solar panels are installed at the best orientation and tilt for your location.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your solar panels clean and free from debris to maintain their efficiency.
- Monitor Shading: Regularly check for new shading from growing trees or new constructions and address any issues promptly.
- Energy Efficiency: Complement your solar system with energy-efficient appliances and habits to reduce overall consumption.
Conclusion
Sun hours play a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness and savings of residential solar systems. By understanding and optimizing factors such as geographic location, seasonal variations, panel orientation, and local climate, you can maximize your solar energy production and achieve significant cost savings. Investing in residential solar is not just about harnessing the power of the sun; it’s about making smart choices to ensure you get the most out of your solar investment.
Embrace the power of solar energy and start your journey toward sustainable living and financial savings today!
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a fascinating process called the photovoltaic effect. Here’s how it works:
The Photovoltaic Effect
At the heart of solar energy conversion is the photovoltaic (PV) cell, the basic building block of a solar panel. These cells are typically made from silicon, a semiconductor material. When sunlight strikes a PV cell, it initiates a series of events:
- Photon absorption: Sunlight is composed of tiny packets of energy called photons. When these photons hit the PV cell, they are absorbed by the semiconductor material.
- Electron excitation: The absorbed photons energize electrons within the silicon atoms, causing them to break free from their atomic bonds.
- Electron flow: The PV cell is designed with two layers of silicon – one positively charged (p-type) and one negatively charged (n-type). This creates an electric field that directs the flow of freed electrons, generating an electric current.
- Electricity generation: The movement of these electrons creates a direct current (DC) of electricity.
From Cell to Panel to Array
Individual PV cells are combined to form solar panels, which can then be connected into larger arrays:
- A single PV cell typically produces only 1 or 2 watts of power.
- Multiple cells are electrically connected and packaged into a solar panel (or module).
- Panels can be further combined into arrays to increase the total power output.
Converting DC to AC
The electricity generated by solar panels is direct current (DC), but most household appliances and the power grid use alternating current (AC). To address this:
- Inverters are used to convert the DC electricity from the panels into AC electricity.
- This AC electricity can then be used to power homes, businesses, or fed back into the electrical grid.
Efficiency and Advancements
The efficiency of solar panels has improved significantly over time:
- In the mid-1980s, commercial PV panels averaged less than 10% efficiency.
- By 2015, this had increased to around 15%.
- Today, state-of-the-art modules are approaching 25% efficiency.
- Experimental PV cells for specialized applications have achieved nearly 50% efficiency.
Applications and Benefits
Solar energy has a wide range of applications, from powering small calculators to providing electricity for entire communities. The benefits of solar power include:
- Clean, renewable energy production with no harmful emissions during operation.
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon footprint.
- Potential for significant cost savings on electricity bills over time.
- Contribution to a more resilient and diversified energy grid.
As technology continues to advance and costs decrease, solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in the global transition to clean, sustainable energy sources. The ability to harness the sun’s vast energy potential through the simple yet ingenious process of photovoltaics represents a bright future for renewable energy.
Solar batteries have become an increasingly popular addition to home solar systems, offering a range of benefits for homeowners looking to maximize their energy independence and savings.
Here’s how solar batteries work and why they’re worth considering:
How do solar batteries work?
Solar batteries store excess electricity generated by your solar panels for later use. During sunny periods when your panels produce more power than you’re consuming, instead of sending that extra electricity back to the grid, it charges your battery. When the sun goes down or during periods of high energy usage, you can then draw power from the battery rather than purchasing it from the utility company.
The most common type of solar battery uses lithium-ion technology. Inside the battery, lithium ions move between a positively-charged cathode and a negatively-charged anode through an electrolyte. This movement of ions creates an electrical current that can power your home. When charging, the process reverses, allowing the battery to store energy for future use.
What are the benefits of solar batteries?
The primary benefit of a solar battery is energy independence. By storing your own solar power, you can reduce reliance on the grid and potentially avoid time-of-use rates when electricity is most expensive. Solar batteries can also provide backup power during outages, keeping essential appliances running when the grid goes down.
Why Consider a Solar Battery?
There are several compelling reasons to consider adding a battery to your solar system:
- Maximize self-consumption: Use more of the solar energy you produce rather than sending it back to the grid.
- Reduce peak demand charges: Draw from your battery during high-cost periods to lower your electricity bills.
- Increase energy resilience: Keep your lights on and critical appliances running during power outages.
- Support grid stability: By reducing your reliance on the grid, you help balance overall electricity demand.
- Potential financial incentives: Some areas offer rebates or tax credits for installing energy storage systems.
Why Are Enphase Batteries a Great Choice?
While there are many solar battery options on the market, Enphase stands out as an excellent choice for several reasons:
- Modular design: Enphase’s microinverter technology allows for a scalable, flexible system that can grow with your energy needs.
- High efficiency: Enphase batteries boast some of the highest round-trip efficiency ratings in the industry, meaning less energy is lost in the storage process.
- Reliability: With no single point of failure, Enphase systems offer enhanced reliability compared to traditional string inverter setups.
- Smart monitoring: Enphase’s Enlighten software provides detailed insights into your energy production, consumption, and storage.
- Safety: Enphase batteries use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which is known for its thermal stability and safety profile.
- Seamless integration: Enphase offers a complete ecosystem of solar and storage products designed to work together seamlessly.
LGCY Power offers the Enphase battery system, and by choosing an Enphase battery, you’re investing in a cutting-edge, reliable solution that can help you maximize the benefits of your solar installation while increasing your energy independence and resilience.
How many solar batteries would you need to power your home?
The answer is… it depends. LGCY Power can walk you through your energy consumption needs and help you determine the number of batteries that would make sense.
Solar batteries are a powerful tool for homeowners looking to take control of their energy usage and costs.
As energy costs continue to rise, finding effective ways to reduce your energy bill becomes increasingly important. At LGCY Power, we understand the value of conserving energy and saving money. Here’s our countdown our 10 favorite ways to save on your energy bill, culminating in the ultimate energy-saving solution.
10. Switch to LED Lighting
Swapping out traditional incandescent bulbs for LED lighting is a simple yet impactful change. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer, reducing both your energy consumption and replacement costs.
Does Unplugging Electronics Save on Electricity?
9. Use Smart Power Strips
Many electronics continue to draw power even when turned off. Smart power strips cut off the electricity supply to devices that are in standby mode, effectively eliminating “phantom” energy use and saving you money over time.
What runs your electricity bill up the most?
8. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Heating and cooling account for nearly half of the average household’s energy bill. A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring that you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home or while you sleep.
7. Optimize Your Water Heater
Lowering the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save energy and reduce costs. Additionally, insulating your water heater and the first six feet of hot and cold water pipes can improve efficiency.
6. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation and sealing of gaps and cracks in your home prevent heat from escaping in the winter and cool air from leaking out in the summer. This reduces the workload on your heating and cooling systems, resulting in lower energy consumption.
5. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to replace old appliances, choose those with the Energy Star label. These appliances meet strict efficiency guidelines and can use up to 50% less energy than their non-efficient counterparts.
4. Maximize Natural Light
Take advantage of natural light by keeping blinds and curtains open during the day. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and can help to heat your home in the winter, lowering both lighting and heating costs.
3. Perform Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system ensures it runs efficiently. Clean filters, unobstructed vents, and professional tune-ups prevent your system from working harder than necessary, saving energy and extending its lifespan.
2. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and reduce the need for heating and cooling. In the summer, set fans to spin counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. In the winter, set them to spin clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down from the ceiling.
1. Invest in Solar Energy
And our favorite way to save money on your energy bill is through solar energy. Solar panels harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, significantly reducing or possibly eliminating your reliance on traditional power sources. With solar energy, you can lock in lower energy costs, potentially increase your property value, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
What’s the Most Efficient Way to Save on Electricity?
By implementing these energy-saving strategies, you can reduce your energy consumption, lower your bills, and make a positive impact on the environment. From simple changes like switching to LED bulbs to transformative solutions like installing solar panels, each step you take contributes to greater savings and a more energy-efficient home. At [Solar Company Name], we’re here to help you achieve your energy-saving goals. Contact us today to learn more about how solar energy can benefit you.
10. Chicago Riverwalk
- A scenic route along the Chicago River, ideal for short commutes within the downtown area.
9. South Lakefront Trail
- Extends from 71st Street to 31st Street, providing a beautiful lakeside ride, perfect for those living in the southern neighborhoods.
8. North Branch Trail
- A serene path running through forest preserves, connecting the northern suburbs to the city, great for a longer, peaceful commute.
7. Boulevard System
- A historic network of tree-lined boulevards, offering a quieter alternative to main roads for central and west side commuters.
6. 606 Trail (Bloomingdale Trail)
- An elevated trail that runs through several northwest neighborhoods, popular for its connectivity and urban views.
5. Humboldt Park Greenway
- A shorter trail that runs through Humboldt Park, connecting to other major trails and bike lanes in the city.
4. Burnham Greenway
- A trail that connects Chicago to the suburbs to the south, ideal for longer commutes from places like Calumet City.
3. Major Taylor Trail
- Named after the famous African American cyclist, this trail connects several south side neighborhoods, providing a direct route downtown.
2. North Shore Channel Trail
- Follows the North Shore Channel, linking northern suburbs like Skokie and Evanston with the city, offering a scenic and efficient route.
1. Lakefront Trail
- Stretching 18 miles along Lake Michigan, this is the most popular trail for commuting due to its direct route through the city, stunning views, and access to numerous neighborhoods and downtown.Also learn about the Illinois net metering changes coming in 2025.
Bachman Lake Trail
Located near Love Field Airport, this 3.5-mile loop around Bachman Lake is popular for short commutes and offers scenic views of the lake and downtown Dallas.
Santa Fe Trail
A 4.3-mile trail connecting Deep Ellum to White Rock Lake, ideal for those commuting from East Dallas to the downtown area. It’s a straight path with plenty of greenery.
Northaven Trail
This 8.5-mile trail runs east to west through North Dallas, providing a direct route for commuters. It’s well-maintained and has several access points.
Katy Trail
One of the most famous trails, it’s a 3.5-mile path that runs from Victory Park to Highland Park. Perfect for downtown commuters and well-lit for evening rides.
White Rock Creek Trail
Spanning 7.8 miles, this trail connects White Rock Lake to the LBJ Freeway, making it a key route for north-south commutes. It’s surrounded by natural scenery.
SoPac Trail
A newer addition, this 5.5-mile trail connects Uptown to the Lake Highlands area, providing a smooth, uninterrupted ride for commuters.
Campion Trail
Located in Irving, this 13-mile trail follows the Elm Fork of the Trinity River and connects to other major trails, making it a great route for long-distance commuters.
Preston Ridge Trail
A 6.3-mile trail running through North Dallas, connecting parks and neighborhoods. It’s a straight, convenient path for commuting.
Trinity Strand Trail
This 2.5-mile trail connects the Design District to the Katy Trail, offering a unique route through the heart of the city’s creative hub.
White Rock Lake Trail
A 9.3-mile loop around White Rock Lake, this trail is a favorite for both recreation and commuting. It offers stunning lake views and connects to several other major trails.
Is Illinois Phasing Out Net Metering?
In Illinois, net metering is undergoing significant changes starting January 1, 2025, particularly for Ameren customers. Here are the key points:
Reduced Net Metering Benefits: For new solar customers who install panels after January 1, 2025, the net metering benefit will be reduced. While current net metering provides credits on the entire electric bill (supply, delivery, taxes, and fees), after the changes, new customers will only receive credits on the supply portion of their bill (Illinois Power Agency) (Citizens Utility Board).
Grandfathering Existing Customers: Customers who have already installed solar panels and have been approved for net metering before the end of 2024 will continue to receive the full net metering benefits for the life of their system, which is typically defined as 30 years.
What is the Net Metering Limit in Illinois?
Distributed Generation Rebate: New solar customers after January 1, 2025, will be eligible for a Distributed Generation (DG) Rebate. This rebate requires the use of a smart inverter and provides an upfront financial benefit to offset the reduced net metering credits. The rebate amount will be at least $300 per kilowatt of generating capacity.
What is the Deadline for Full Benefits? To take advantage of the current full net metering benefits, customers must have their solar systems installed, interconnected, and receive permission to operate from the utility by December 31, 2024. Specific deadlines for documentation submissions to ensure timely approval have been set by utilities like Ameren and ComEd.
These changes are part of Illinois’ broader transition towards a value-based compensation framework for solar energy, reflecting the state’s increasing adoption of solar power and the legislative adjustments planned under the Future Energy Jobs Act of 2016.
*Sources Illinois Power Agency & Citizens Utility Board
As the world shifts towards more sustainable energy sources, the United States has seen a significant increase in residential solar adoption. Homeowners across the country are harnessing the power of the sun to reduce their electricity bills and their carbon footprint. Here, we explore the top ten U.S. states leading the way in residential solar adoption, counting down from ten to one.
10. New York
New York has made significant strides in solar energy adoption, driven by ambitious renewable energy goals and incentives. The state’s NY-Sun Initiative provides financial incentives for residential solar installations. New York also offers net metering and tax credits, encouraging homeowners to switch to solar power.
9. Colorado
Colorado’s sunny climate and supportive policies have made it a hub for residential solar energy. The state offers incentives such as the Residential Renewable Energy Rebate Program and property tax exemptions. Colorado’s commitment to renewable energy has led to a growing number of homeowners installing solar systems.
8. Massachusetts
Massachusetts has been a leader in renewable energy adoption for years. The state’s Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program provides incentives for residential solar installations, making it financially viable for homeowners. Massachusetts also offers net metering and tax credits, further boosting solar adoption.
7. New Jersey
New Jersey is a surprising contender in the residential solar market, thanks to its progressive energy policies and incentives. The state offers one of the most generous Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) programs in the country, allowing homeowners to earn credits for the energy their systems produce. New Jersey also has strong net metering policies and various state incentives.
6. Nevada
Nevada’s abundant sunshine and supportive policies make it a hotspot for residential solar adoption. The state offers incentives such as net metering, rebates, and property tax exemptions for solar installations. Nevada’s commitment to renewable energy has led to a significant increase in residential solar systems.
5. North Carolina
North Carolina has emerged as a leader in solar energy in the southeastern United States. The state’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (REPS) requires utilities to source a portion of their energy from renewable sources, boosting residential solar installations. North Carolina also offers tax credits and other incentives to support solar energy.
4. Arizona
Arizona’s sunny climate makes it a perfect location for solar energy. The state has implemented policies to encourage solar adoption, including tax credits, rebates, and a robust net metering system. Arizona’s Solar Equipment Certification ensures that installed systems meet high standards of efficiency and reliability.
3. Florida
The Sunshine State lives up to its nickname with a strong commitment to solar energy. Florida’s residential solar market has grown rapidly due to favorable weather conditions and supportive policies. The state offers incentives like sales tax exemptions and a strong net metering program, making solar installations more attractive to homeowners.
2. Texas
Texas, known for its oil and gas industry, is also making significant strides in solar energy. The state’s large size and high electricity consumption make it an ideal candidate for solar power. Texas offers various incentives, such as property tax exemptions and net metering, encouraging homeowners to invest in solar energy.
1. California
California is the undeniable leader in residential solar energy. With abundant sunshine and progressive energy policies, the state has more installed solar capacity than any other. California’s solar initiatives, including the California Solar Initiative (CSI) and net metering policies, have made solar power accessible and affordable for many homeowners.
Conclusion
These ten states are leading the charge in residential solar adoption in the United States. Their success can be attributed to a combination of favorable climates, supportive policies, and financial incentives. As more homeowners recognize the benefits of solar energy, it’s likely that other states will follow suit, accelerating the transition to a more sustainable and renewable energy future.
When it comes to investing in home improvement projects, one of the most highly recommended is installing solar panels. Not only do solar panels increase a property’s value, but they also stand to save homeowners substantially on their energy bills. Given the ever-greater cost of utilities and living, the opportunity to reduce home electricity bills is understandably attractive.
It isn’t surprising to hear that more and more homeowners in the United States are switching to solar energy. In fact, it’s estimated that a new solar project was completed every 60 seconds last year. If you are thinking of installing solar panels, you are probably wondering just how durable they are, especially in periods of inclement weather.
In this blog post, we will highlight how you can protect solar panels from hail damage. We will also explore some practical steps you can take to protect, maintain and care for your solar panels so that they last for decades. If you are thinking about installing solar panels on your property, your premier choice is LGCY Power.
What Are Hailstones?
Simply put, hailstones are small lumps of ice. They form in clouds and fall to the earth when they reach a size of at least 5 mm in diameter.
They begin as water droplets in clouds (known as cumulonimbus clouds) that freeze. Cumulonimbus clouds are thunderclouds and hailstones may form within in if the clouds are large enough and the winds are sufficiently strong.
While hailstones can be as little as 5 mm, they can occasionally be far larger in size. The largest ever recorded was a whopping 20 cm in diameter (weighing 0.88 kg), which help in South Dakota in 2010.
Destruction of property and crops because of hailstones results in $1 billion in damage in the United States each year. Since 2000, at least 4 people in the United States have died as a result of hailstones. Given the potential size of hailstones, it is therefore not surprising that they can also inflict damage on solar panels.
How Do Hailstones Damage Solar Panels?
Extreme weather is a major risk for solar panels. Of all the different extreme weather conditions, hailstones are of the utmost concern for homeowners who have or are thinking about installing solar panels.
The good news is that severe hailstorms are not common in the United States. Most solar panels can withstand light-to-moderate impact without experiencing damage. In fact, the chances of hailstones damaging solar panels are very low—less than 5% according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Still, 5% is not zero, so there is a risk to solar panels from hailstones. Certain states are more prone to hail storms than others, including Nebraska, Colorado, and Texas. Hail storms generally occur between March and October each year.
Hailstones can damage both the external surface of solar panels and also the internal components. This can result in reduced solar panel performance and unexpected costs, such as repairs or replacement.
How to Protect Your Solar Panels From Hail Damage
Next, we will highlight some of the steps that you can take to protect your solar panels from hail damage.
Choose a Durable Solar Panel
Your choice of solar panel is important, particularly if you live in an area that is prone to severe hail storms. We recommend you look for either UL 61730 or IEC 61730 solar panel ratings. These solar panels are resilient to most hail storms and have passed tests showing that they can withstand hailstones up to 3 inches in diameter traveling in at speeds of up to 88.3 mph.
We also recommend that you opt for high-quality panels that are made by a reputable solar panel manufacturer. This way, you can trust that they have used durable materials in their construction and earned performance certification for their products.
Adjustable Installation
When installing solar panels, consider adjustable installation. Because of the angle that solar panels need to face, they are prone to damage from hailstones when they fall from the sky. With adjustable installation, mounted solar panels can be adjusted when necessary.
For example, if you know that a hailstorm is due in your area soon, you will turn a pole-mounted solar panels vertically. This way, the hailstones fall vertically down while not striking the front surface of the solar panels, limiting any potential damage.
Of course, this method may not work in the case of unexpected hail storms, though it’s incredibly helpful on days when you are aware of the potential for such storms.
Automatic Panel Changing System
Rather than having to manually change the angle that your solar panels are facing, you could also consider adding an automatic panel changing system. This will allow you to rotate your solar panels without the need to step outside.
The addition of such a system will naturally increase the upfront cost you will pay when adding solar panels to your property. Still, there is a great convenience factor, as you will change the angle of your solar panels with just the push of a button on a remote control.
Install a Protective Cover
A simpler and more affordable method to protect your solar panels from hailstones is to use a protective cover. Note that not all types of covers will offer hail protection, so look for one that advertises as being able to protect against the impact of hailstones.
A sturdy cover will absorb the impact of hailstones so that your panels are not affected. Depending on the specific type of solar panels you purchase and the manufacturer, there may be a specific cover that you will use. Sometimes, you may also use a blanket or tarp to cover your panels (in instances of smaller hailstones).
Apply a Protective Coating
Another option is to apply a protective coating. Adding a layer of methacrylate forms a durable, hard surface on the surface of the panels that offers additional protection. Think of this option as like adding a screen protector to your smartphone.
Instead of a polymer coating, you could also apply a layer of plexiglass over the glass planning, which will absorb the brunt of any damage from hailstones. Replacing damaging plexiglass is far easier and cheaper than either replacing or repairing solar panels.
Keep in mind that not every climate is suited to this additional layer of plexiglass. If you live in an area with high temperatures, the plexiglass may get so hot that it actually damages the solar cells that are below. Check whether this would be an option first.
Use a Wire Mesh
As we have highlighted above, the greatest risk of damage to solar panels is by larger hailstones. One inexpensive way to reduce the risk of this is to use a wire mesh over the panels.
This means that the largest hailstones won’t be able to go through to the solar panels. Any hailstones that are small enough to fit through the holes in the wire mesh are very unlikely to cause any damage to your panels, so don’t worry.
Bring the Solar Panels Indoors
If you have small, movable solar panels, this may also be an option. Simply set up a dedicated space either in your garage or house where you can store your panels during a hailstorm. Opting for movable solar panels may be a smart option if you live in an area where severe hailstorms are frequent.
Check Your Solar Panels After a Hail Storm
Whatever type of protection you choose, it is also important to visually inspect your solar panels after hailstones or a period of inclement weather. That way, you can spot any signs of damage to your panels. Before the damage is allowed to get worse, you will be able to schedule repairs.
How to Maintain Solar Panels
Next, let’s look at some general ways in which you can maintain your solar panels so that they continue to efficiently generate electricity for many years.
Perform Routine Cleanings
The good news here is that solar panels are durable and require very little maintenance. Solar panels that have been installed on a sloped roof will benefit from falling rain which will wash away any surface debris.
It is a good idea to perform routine cleaning 2 to 4 times per year. It is easy to clean solar panels, all you need is a garden hose or a leaf blower to remove any debris (such as twigs or leaves) that have settled on the panels.
It is especially important that you remove any debris following a period of bad weather. Items such as twigs can cause tiny scratches on the solar panels, which, over time, can become larger. If you spot any damage, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection from a professional solar company.
Monitor the Health of Your System
We also recommended that you integrate a solar panel monitoring system into your solar system setup. This way, you will track exactly how much energy your solar panels produce over the course of a time and over the course of a longer period.
With this information, you can understand how external factors, such as the weather, affect the performance of your solar panels. A monitoring system will also inform you when a solar panel malfunctions or breaks, allowing you to schedule repairs without delay.
How Long Should Solar Panels Last?
Before we wrap up, let’s look at exactly how long solar panels should last, provided that they have been properly cared for and maintained.
Generally, most solar panels last for 25-plus years and have an average annual degradation rate of around 0.50%. Solar panels won’t just “go bad” one day, rather their efficiency will gradually decline. With proper care and maintenance, good quality solar panels can effectively generate electricity for up to 40 or 50 years.
Within the stated 25-plus year lifespan, certain parts of a solar panel system will require replacing. These include the solar inverter and the solar battery (if your system uses one).
Look at the efficiency of your solar panels in terms of energy production after 25 years and compare this to when they were first installed. If they still produce enough energy for your needs and none of them are broken, there is no need to have them replaced.
Consider replacing them if they produce so little electricity that they do not adequately power your home anymore.
Protect Your Solar Panels From Hail Damage
Solar panels, while durable, are susceptible to damage from hailstones. While hailstorms are not a major concern for homeowners in the United States, the above information will help you protect your solar panels from hailstorms.
If you are interested in learning more about solar power and would like to install solar panels on your property, contact the expert team at LGCY Power. We offer a free solar design and will be happy to answer questions that you may have about the solar installation process.
Click here to contact our team and discover for yourself the benefits of solar energy.
