In 2017, a severe hailstorm swept through Colorado, leaving a trail of destruction. The storm caused significant damage across the state, including cars, homes, and even solar panels. At the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado, researchers observed the damage first-hand. One of their solar panel arrays had been directly hit by golf ball-sized hailstones. Out of thousands of panels installed on-site, only one panel showed visible damage—a cracked surface caused by a particularly large hailstone.
This real-world event illustrates an important point: while hailstorms can damage solar panels, it’s quite rare. Most solar panels are built to withstand tough weather conditions, including hail. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure durability, often using high-speed hail simulations to test impact resistance. In fact, the majority of hailstorms do not cause damage to solar panels at all, even when the hail is substantial.
However, in extreme cases—like the Colorado storm—large or fast-moving hailstones can cause harm. This brings us to the key message: while most hail will have little to no effect on solar panels, severe weather conditions may still pose a threat.
How Does Hail Affect Solar Panels?
Hail can pose a threat to solar panels, though the extent of damage largely depends on the size and speed of the hailstones. While solar panels are designed to be weather-resistant, extreme conditions can still lead to problems.
Solar Panels Can Be Damaged
Hailstones, especially those larger than 1 inch in diameter, can potentially cause cracks in the glass surface of solar panels. Even small cracks can affect the panel’s efficiency, as they reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cells. In rare cases, if a hailstone strikes with significant force, it can damage the internal components of the panel, leading to a loss of functionality.
Most Solar Warranties Don’t Cover Hail Damage
One thing to keep in mind is that most standard solar panel warranties don’t cover damage caused by natural disasters like hailstorms. This means that if your panels are damaged by hail, you’ll likely need to handle the repairs or replacement out-of-pocket unless you have specific coverage in place.
Additional Insurance Costs
Given the potential for hail damage, some homeowners choose to add extra insurance to cover their solar panels. However, this comes with additional costs, as solar panel protection isn’t always included in basic home insurance policies. This is something to consider if you live in an area prone to hailstorms.
How to Prevent Hail Damage to Solar Panels?
Hail damage to solar panels, while uncommon, is a concern in areas prone to severe storms. Luckily, there are several effective methods to protect your solar panels and minimize potential damage.
Choose Panels that Meet UL 61730, IEC 61730, or IP68 Standards
The first step in avoiding hail damage is to choose solar panels that meet industry standards like UL 61730, IEC 61730, or IP68. These certifications ensure the panels have undergone rigorous testing for durability, including their ability to withstand impacts from hail. Panels with these certifications are designed to resist extreme weather conditions, giving you extra peace of mind.
Use Physical Protection Covers
Consider installing protective covers, such as mesh or tempered glass shields, over your solar panels. These physical barriers help absorb the impact of hailstones, protecting the panel surface from direct hits. These covers can be especially useful during severe weather seasons.
Install Panels at the Right Angle
The angle at which solar panels are installed can make a big difference in their vulnerability to hail damage. Panels installed at a steeper angle are less likely to take direct hits from falling hailstones. Consult your installer to ensure your panels are positioned in a way that maximizes energy production while reducing potential hail damage.
Purchase Insurance
Adding insurance specifically for your solar panels is another smart way to protect against hail damage. Homeowner’s insurance often doesn’t cover solar panel repairs from natural disasters, so getting a separate policy for solar system protection can save you from unexpected repair costs.
Apply Methacrylate Coating
Methacrylate is a transparent protective coating that can be sprayed onto the surface of solar panels. It provides an extra layer of defense against hail impact, helping to prevent cracks or other damage. This simple solution can be an affordable option for homeowners looking for additional protection.
Monitor Weather Conditions
Staying aware of upcoming weather conditions is key. During storm seasons, keep an eye on forecasts and be proactive if a hailstorm is predicted. If possible, consider temporary physical protection or even covering panels during extreme weather events.
What to Do If Your Solar Panels Are Damaged by Hail?
If your solar panels get damaged during a hailstorm, acting quickly and efficiently can help minimize losses and get your system back up and running. Here's what you should do:
Repair the Panels
If the damage is minor—such as small cracks in the glass surface—you might be able to repair the panels instead of replacing them entirely. Contact your solar installer or a professional technician to assess the damage. They can recommend whether a repair, such as replacing the glass or patching up cracks, will restore your panel’s performance.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Before attempting any repairs, reach out to your insurance provider to check your coverage. If you’ve added specific solar panel insurance or hail damage coverage, you might be eligible for a claim. Be sure to document the damage with photos and maintain detailed records of the storm, the damage, and any repair estimates you receive. This will make the claims process smoother and help you avoid potential disputes with the insurance company.
Consider Selling to a Solar Panel Recycling Company
If the hail damage is severe and repairing the panels isn’t an option, consider selling the damaged panels to a recycling company. Many solar panels contain valuable materials like silicon, silver, and copper, which can be recovered and reused. Selling to a recycling facility helps offset the cost of replacement and ensures your old panels are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
Is It Worth Installing Solar Panels in Hail-Prone Areas?
Even in regions where hailstorms are common, installing solar panels is still a worthwhile investment. The reality is that not all hailstorms will damage your solar panels. Most panels are built to withstand everyday weather conditions, and with proper precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of hail-related damage.
By taking proactive measures—like choosing solar panels that meet industry standards, using protective coverings, and securing adequate insurance—you can protect your investment. These steps ensure that even if a hailstorm does hit, your panels remain safe and functional.
At SEL, we offer high-quality solar panels that adhere to rigorous safety standards, providing you with the durability you need in hail-prone areas. Our systems are designed to maximize efficiency and longevity, giving you peace of mind and solid performance no matter the weather. Investing in solar power not only contributes to a sustainable future but can also lead to significant savings on energy costs, making it a smart choice regardless of local weather conditions.
