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When Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in 2018, energy experts were eager to see how their solar power held up.
Second only to California for the amount of solar power in their state and right in the path of the hurricane, North Carolina’s solar power was relatively unscathed,
This bodes well for homeowners looking to invest in solar panels, but it doesn’t entirely negate the concern over what to do with potentially broken solar panels.
Read on for a comprehensive look at broken solar panels: what to look for and what to do about them.
Damage to Look For On Your Solar Panels
While solar panels are pretty durable, damage can still happen. Check your panels regularly for evidence of microcracks, discoloration, or damage after weather events.
Microcracks
Microscopic tears are prone to happen in solar panels during transit, or when affected by weather, or due to the natural effects of the mechanical and chemical components.
While these cracks don’t affect the production of the solar panel initially, they will affect it more if they get bigger or cause cracks large enough to expose the cell to the elements. Any visible cracks should be repaired.
Discoloration
Silver paste is used during the manufacturing process to help seal solar panels. If this paste is defective or is exposed to the elements, it can begin to chemically interact with the encapsulation material that protects the solar cells.
This interaction will cause discoloration, often called a snail trail, to appear on the panel, which can cause microcracks and ultimately affect panel production.
Damage
Physical damage can be caused by hail, falling tree limbs, extreme temperatures, or even walking on your panels. Do not mistake their durability for invincibility.
When To Call the Professionals
Cracks can expose the solar cell to the elements, particularly moisture which can cause corrosion. Make sure to get repairs underway quickly.
DIY videos are floating around out in internet space about how to fix a solar panel. Still, you should call professionals to assess any damages, particularly if your panels are under warranty.
Trained to handle the potential exposure to any hazardous material, professionals know what to do with a broken solar panel and ensure it’s done correctly the first time.
Regular Maintenance Can Prevent Broken Solar Panels
As a homeowner, solar panel maintenance can help extend the life of your solar panels and prevent major damages from occurring.
To prevent cracks, damage and get the most life out of your solar panels:
- Clean them 2-4 times a year
- Keep clear of snow and debris
- Avoid using hot water in cold weather
- Avoid using cold water in hot weather
- Remove branches that may fall on the panels.
Scheduling an annual maintenance appointment with your local solar company can supplement your regular maintenance and ensure you didn’t miss anything that needs taken care of. Solar panel maintenance cost is minimal compared to repairs or replacement.
Protect Your Investment
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent broken solar panels, or at the very least, catch and repair the damage before it affects the solar cell. Making an effort to maintain your panels will protect your investment and keep your energy bills low.
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