Solar Panel Hail Damage: A Complete Guide
October 26, 2024
Solar
Solar
This article is written for the homeowner concerned about the risk of hail storms damaging their solar panel investment. Calgary and surrounding areas of Airdrie, Okotoks, and Drumheller are known for frequent and intense hail storms. According to an article published by CTV Calgary, the most recent storm season (August 2024) resulted in almost $2.8 billion in insurance claims for the second-costliest natural disaster in Canadian history. Those considering solar, are smart to research the performance of solar panels in the context of Alberta's climate.
Solar panels are built to handle different types of weather, including hail storms. However, how strong they are against hail depends on a few factors. This guide will look at the details of hail damage to solar panels. We will discuss the risks, ways to prevent damage, what to check after a storm, insurance considerations, and more.
Hailstorms are usually short in duration, but high intensity. They can damage home exteriors like siding, shingles, windows, gutters, and of course - our vehicles. Unfortunately, hail can damage solar panels too - although in our experience the damage is typically not obvious, catastrophic, or resulting in the entire solar system requiring replacement. From what we've seen, a hail storm that doesn't cause property damage to the home - typically will also not damage the solar panels.
Hail can harm a solar panel in different ways, from small scratches to serious problems that affect how well it works. The damage caused by hail depends on a few things. These include the size of the hailstones, how fast they fall, the angle they hit the panel, and the angle of the roof. Larger hailstones that fall faster can cause more damage.
The solar industry is aware about the risk of hail damage. It's a criticism / concern that has been around since the early days of solar! To combat this perception challenge, standards and technology have been developed resulting in stronger, more durable panels.The good news is that most good-quality solar panels can survive small to medium-sized hailstones. They do not get significant damage from these impacts.
In our experience talking with customers, many of them imagine the solar panels to be fragile like a thin piece of glass. While glass is rigid and prone to shattering when dropped, solar panels are a little different. Solar panels have sturdy aluminum frames, wrapped around slightly flexible solar modules, backsheets, plastic, and tempered glass. This layering system allows the panel to absorb the impact of small / medium size hail.
To make sure solar panels are strong and dependable, the solar industry follows special standards for hail resistance. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a leading group that sets these important standards for electrical and electronic products.
The IEC 61730 standard explains the safety and performance needs for solar panels. It covers how well they can handle hail impact. If a solar panel meets the requirements of this standard, it earns the IEC 61730 certification. This shows that it is up to mark. IEC 61215 is a specific hail certification test, where panels are tested to resist 25mm hail, which would be considered quite large (size of a toonie). This certification gives homeowners confidence. It assures them that the solar panels they buy have been tested well to prove they can resist hail.
As a consumer, you can easily check the hail rating of your solar panel by reviewing the specification sheets provided by your solar installer. If your installer does not provide these sheets, the model number can be searched online where most specification sheets can be found.
A common module we install at Evalence is the LONGi 445W Bi-Facial Module (LR7-54HGBB). Reviewing the spec sheet, the solar panel has a certification on the front for IEC 61730 and IEC 61215. On the backside of the sheet, it's got a dedicated mechanical loading section with a hail rating of 25mm at 23 m/s (83 km/hr).
Reviewing 4 common solar modules we installed in Calgary in 2024, we found that the hail rating met the industry standard across the board. We only install premium modules, so this is to be expected.
What was unexpected, is that the lesser known Thornova module actually has the highest listed rating!
Solar panels are built to last, but you can take extra steps to reduce the chance of hail damage. Choosing hail-resistant models, using smart installation methods, and adding protective accessories can better protect your solar panels. Keep in mind, taking these steps before a hailstorm is usually cheaper than paying for repairs or new panels later.
When you pick solar panels, it's important to ask about their hail resistance. High-quality PV modules go through strict testing. This includes hitting them with steel balls to mimic hail. Just check the spec sheet!
Beyond choosing strong models, how you install solar panels matters a lot when it comes to protecting them from hail. It's very important to work with skilled installers who know about areas that often get hail. They can use the right methods for a better setup.
Here’s what you should think about:
By following these tips, a good installation can really make your solar system tougher against hail and all types of adverse weather.
After a hailstorm, especially one with large hailstones, it is wise to check your solar panels for any damage. This quick look can help you spot problems early and stop bigger issues later on. Finding hail damage quickly allows you to get repairs done fast. It also makes handling warranty claims or insurance easier.
A simple look at your solar energy system after a hailstorm is important. It is best to do this from the ground for safety. You can check for major issues like:
If you do not feel safe checking it yourself or think there might be major damage, contact a skilled solar technician. They can help you understand how much damage there is to your solar energy system.
If your system has a monitoring application we recommend reviewing it regularly to look for potential signs of system underperformance after hail storms. You can look at the following metrics:
Understanding your solar panel warranty and insurance policy is very important for handling hail damage. Your warranty may cover certain damage types. At the same time, your insurance could provide extra protection for weather-related problems.
Knowing what your warranty and insurance cover, along with how to file a claim, can help you have an easier experience if something unexpected happens.
Before you file a claim for hail damage, make sure to read your solar panel warranty closely. Most manufacturers have two types of warranties: product and performance.
Remember, the terms and conditions of warranties can change a lot between different manufacturers, and even suppliers choosing to honor the warranty claim.
In Alberta, many home insurance plans include hail damage to solar panels in their dwelling coverage. But, it is important to check with your insurance provider to know the details of your policy. This includes knowing about deductibles and limits.
Before you start the claims process, make sure to document the damage well. Take clear photos of the damaged panels and write down the date and time when the hailstorm happened. Once you file the claim, your insurance company will probably send an adjuster to look at the damage. They will decide what is covered. Providing accurate information and your documentation can help speed up the claim process.
If you're unsure if your system is damaged, you can request a solar inspection from a contractor like Evalence. A professional solar inspection would generally include photos of all panels and documentation for any damage or deficiencies.
Replacing a damaged solar panel is much easier than many home-owners realize. Depending on the roof layout, position of the panel, and other factors the cost to replace a panel is typically under $1,000. This price would include the new panel, labor, and materials to complete the repair.
In conclusion, it is important to protect your solar panels from hail damage. Doing this helps them last longer and work better. You can get hail-resistant models, use proper installation techniques, and check your panels after a hailstorm to keep them safe. Regular maintenance is key, and knowing what your insurance covers is crucial for protecting your investment from sudden hail events. Stay updated on how different solar panel technologies handle hail. This way, you can make smart choices for a steady and reliable energy source. If you live in places like Alberta where hail is common, taking preventive steps will help you reduce possible damage.
Alberta gets hailstorms often, but big hail events that damage well-installed solar panels are pretty uncommon. Of the 55 solar installations completed by Evalence in 2024, we had zero solar panel hail damage instances.
Minor hail damage, like small scratches, may be hard to see at first. However, over time, even these small hits can add up. This build-up can lower the efficiency of your solar panel. This is sometimes referred to as soiling, which also includes dirt and residue on the module which reduces the amount of light hitting the PV Cells.
A solar panel that gets damaged by hail can produce less energy. In serious cases, it might stop working completely. It's important to contact an installer right away if serious damage occurs.
