As storm season approaches, safeguarding your home and solar power system becomes essential. While solar panels are built to endure harsh weather, including high winds and hail, taking a few proactive steps can ensure your investment remains protected and fully functional. Here’s how to prepare your solar system for storm season. click here now
1. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Before storms hit, have a certified solar technician inspect your system. This inspection should include:
- Checking panel mounts and racking systems for signs of corrosion or wear.
- Ensuring all wiring and electrical components are secure and weatherproof.
- Verifying that the inverter is operating correctly and safely.
Routine inspections can identify minor issues before they become major storm-related problems.
2. Trim Overhanging Trees
Strong winds can break limbs or uproot trees, posing a threat to your solar panels. Trim any branches that hang over or near your solar array to reduce the risk of impact damage. This not only protects your panels but also helps maintain optimal sunlight exposure.
3. Secure Loose Items on Your Property
Flying debris is a leading cause of damage during storms. Ensure outdoor furniture, tools, and other loose objects are either secured or brought indoors to avoid potential collisions with your solar equipment.
4. Check Your Home Insurance and Warranties
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy and solar system warranty. Make sure your panels and equipment are covered against storm-related damage. If not, talk to your insurer about updating your policy. Also, understand what your solar manufacturer or installer covers in the event of severe weather.
5. Back-Up Power Considerations
If your solar system includes battery storage, confirm that it's fully operational and set up to provide backup power during outages. If not, and you're considering upgrading, storm season is a good time to evaluate your energy resilience.
6. Install a Surge Protector
Lightning strikes and power surges can damage your inverter and electrical system. Install surge protection devices to guard against voltage spikes and protect sensitive solar equipment.
7. Know Your System’s Shut-Off Procedure
In case of emergency, it’s crucial to know how to manually shut down your solar system safely. Your installer should have provided instructions, or you can request a quick refresher or signage for reference.
8. Monitor Weather Alerts and System Performance
Stay informed with local weather forecasts and set up alerts for storm warnings. Monitor your solar system’s performance before and after a storm to detect any drops in efficiency or obvious issues.
Final Thoughts
Your solar system is a valuable asset that contributes to your energy independence and lowers your utility costs. With some simple preparation, you can keep it protected and performing reliably throughout storm season. If you're unsure about any aspect of your system's readiness, reach out to your solar provider for expert support.
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