When investing in solar panels, one common question many people have is about durability, particularly in extreme weather conditions.
In areas where hail is a possibility, homeowners often worry about how solar panels will hold up.
Thankfully, advancements in solar panel technology have made them highly resilient to impacts, including hailstones.
Here’s a closer look at how solar panels are designed to withstand hail and what you should know if you’re considering an installation.
How Durable Are Solar Panels Against Hail?
Most modern solar panels are built to withstand a variety of harsh weather conditions, including hail.
During the manufacturing process, solar panels undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can endure impact.
The industry standard is to test panels with hailstones roughly the size of a golf ball (about 25mm in diameter), traveling at speeds up to 50 mph.
In these tests, the panels are struck multiple times to confirm their resistance to high-impact forces.
What Makes Solar Panels Resilient to Hail?
Several design features contribute to the durability of solar panels in hail-prone regions:
Tempered Glass Coating
Solar panels are typically covered with a layer of tempered glass, which is about 4-5mm thick.
Tempered glass is much stronger than regular glass and is designed to absorb and dissipate impact forces, making it ideal for resisting hailstone impacts.
Protective Backing and Framing
The back of each panel is reinforced to provide stability, while the frame around the panel further protects it from impacts.
These elements prevent the panel from bending or cracking under pressure.
Testing Standards
Solar panels undergo a variety of stress tests, including impact, wind load, and temperature testing.
Panels that meet industry standards for impact resistance are typically labelled with an IEC 61215 certification, confirming their durability and resilience.
Real-World Performance of Solar Panels in Hailstorms
In many real-world cases, solar panels have proven to be highly resilient during hailstorms.
For example, following severe hailstorms in Colorado, where hailstones often exceed golf ball size, solar installations sustained minimal damage compared to roofs, windows, and other exposed surfaces.
While no product is entirely impervious to extreme conditions, data shows that properly installed solar panels rarely suffer damage even in significant hail events.
Related – We explain the do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning solar panels here.
What Should You Do to Protect Your Solar Panels?
Although solar panels are designed to withstand hail, there are some practical steps you can take to protect your investment and extend the life of your system:
Choose High-Quality Panels
Investing in panels that meet industry standards for impact resistance ensures a higher level of protection against hail and other environmental factors.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Routine maintenance can help identify any potential issues before they become problematic.
After a hailstorm or other severe weather event, it’s wise to inspect your panels (or have them inspected) to ensure they are functioning properly.
Consider Insurance Coverage
Most homeowner insurance policies cover damage to solar panels, including from hail. Check with your provider to confirm coverage specifics or to add a policy rider if needed.
Are There Any Conditions Where Hail Could Damage Solar Panels?
While solar panels are built to resist hail, extremely large hailstones (over 2 inches in diameter) or unusually severe storms can potentially cause damage.
In these rare cases, the tempered glass may crack or the frame may bend. However, such instances are uncommon, and many panels are repairable even in cases of impact damage.
The Role of Warranties and Manufacturer Guarantees
High-quality solar panels typically come with warranties that include coverage for impact resistance and other forms of environmental wear.
Standard solar panel warranties generally last 25 years or more, and some manufacturers even include specific protections against hail damage.
We’d be happy to talk you through the warranties we offer on our installations. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion: Yes, Solar Panels Are Hail-Resilient!
In summary, solar panels are highly resilient to hailstones thanks to tempered glass, robust framing, and thorough impact testing.
While no system is entirely immune to extreme weather, modern solar panels are designed to withstand typical hailstorms, making them a sound investment even in areas where hail is common.
With proper installation, quality panels, and a little maintenance, you can expect your solar panels to endure for many years—regardless of the weather.
For more, feel free to contact us on 01453 705915 or by filling out this form here with any questions or to discuss your specific needs.