When Do Solar Panels Break?

"Do solar panels break?" This is a significant concern for homeowners who are considering alternative energy. Solar technology is ever advancing, and solar panel manufacturers have upped their game, with most solar panels lasting 25 to 30 years. However, this does not make them damage-proof. Although they are built to endure heavy impacts and harsh weather conditions, they are nonetheless vulnerable to deterioration over time. 

It is essential to be aware of some potential causes of solar panel failure so you can take steps to avoid it. At Cooper Roofing and Solar, we install solar panels with the highest possible durability rating and can withstand Nevada's extreme climate. 

In this article, we will highlight what solar panels are made of, when solar panels may break, and how you can prevent solar panels damage. Let's take a look.

What Are Solar Panels Made Of?

Solar panels are manufactured by encasing solar cells in strong tempered glass that provides the necessary protection. Underneath this glass is a layer of insulation and a protective backsheet. This technique shields the panel from extreme heat and humidity to guarantee the solar panel's effectiveness. Additionally, a solar panel has an anti-reflective coating that allows them to absorb the most heat from the sun.

Common Causes of Solar Panel Damage

Many factors could cause your solar panel to break. Some of them include:

1. Falling Debris

Small pieces of debris such as twigs, leaves or dirt, can form microscopic scratches on your solar panels. The quantity of solar energy each panel can absorb can be reduced due to the scratches, thus preventing sunlight from shining straight onto the cells. The potential damage increases with the weight of the debris. For instance, large branches and acorns might entirely destroy panels.

To mitigate this issue, ensure no trees are near or above the solar panels. Additionally, you can regularly wipe the panels to prevent debris buildup.

2. Hail Storms

Solar panels frequently break down during hailstorms. While there is little you can do to protect your panel system from hail damage, if your region is prone to hailstorms, you can install more moderately-sized solar panels as opposed to fewer large ones to lessen the energy production loss brought on by a hailstorm. Although they initially cost more to install, smaller panels are less expensive to replace individually.

3. Water Damage

Another frequent source of frustration for homeowners with solar panels is water damage from worn-out or outdated seals. Water can leak through the sealant as it ages and loses its effectiveness. When this occurs, your solar panels' components can deteriorate and short circuit.

Take enough time to reseal each panel individually or hire a certified solar panel contractor to prevent water damage as much as possible. The professional will also conduct an inspection and let you know if additional maintenance for your solar panels is necessary.

How Can You Protect Your Solar Panels?

You can take some measures to ensure that your solar panels are protected: 

• Don't place solar panels in the shade to prevent microcracks and hot spots.
• Avoid cleaning your solar panels in the afternoon when they are hot since the sudden temperature changes could result in microcracks.
• Consider an insurance policy for your solar panels if you frequently experience hailstorms. Many companies offer insurance for a nominal monthly fee, which can help you avoid high replacement costs in the future.
• Install an alarm system to alert you when there is movement close to the solar panels if theft is a concern in your neighborhood.

Cooper Roofing and Solar at Your Service

So, do solar panels break? Yes, they do but not under usual circumstances. They can effectively withstand a small hailstorm or being hit by a child tossing a rubber ball. However, your solar panels could break down due to the above circumstances. In addition to preventing these problems from compromising the performance of your panels, regular maintenance, monitoring, and immediate repairs can help improve your solar panels' overall long-term performance.

Our Cooper Roofing and Solar, LLC team has 10+ years of experience in the roofing and solar business. We install fully self-sufficient solar systems that enable our customers to reduce their utility costs by harnessing the sun's constant rays. If you need a professional solar panel installation or need more information, feel free to contact our team. We will be delighted to serve you.