The Impact of Rain on Solar Panels and How to Protect Them

You are sitting in the comfort of your living room about to drink a cup of coffee, or maybe a cup of tea. You take a sip as you relax into the sound of rain falling down. The grass looks greener, and the inside of your house starts looking more and more inviting. You’re getting ready to catch up on that series you’ve been waiting to watch, you settle on your couch, get a blanket, turn on your TV, and everything is alright with the world.

All of a sudden, you start to wonder if the solar panels you had installed will continue to generate electricity with all those clouds piling up in the sky for the next couple of days. Will the rain reduce their efficiency? Was everything properly installed to withstand the weather? Was it a bad idea to go solar after all? Are my solar panels safe?

Well, in this scenario, you wouldn’t be as alone as you might think if these thoughts crossed your mind. In fact, these are pretty common doubts that any house or business owner has had when considering going solar. Especially if they are considering installing solar panels in Sonoma County or nearby areas. That is why, at Sustainable Living Builders, Inc., we would like to offer you some insight into the benefits and potential concerns that rain represents when it comes to your solar panels.

Positive Effects

It might seem hard to believe but rain has a bright side for photovoltaic systems, as it functions as a natural cleaning alternative that helps wash away dust, dirt, and debris accumulated on the solar panels, and improve their efficiency. The rainy season also provides a cooling effect that can enhance their efficiency, as solar panels perform better in cooler conditions while helping to prolong their lifespan.

Negative Effects

What can you do to protect your solar panels?

Ensure Proper Installation: Always hire certified professionals to install your solar energy system. A professional will ensure that your solar panels are properly installed and securely mounted, that all electrical connections are functioning properly, and that they are waterproofed.

Schedule Regular Inspections: Have your photovoltaic system checked on once a year for cracks, loose connections, or damage to the mounting structures, as it is the only way to guarantee that you don’t have any water intrusion.

Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Before the rain starts, examine the electrical connections to make sure they are sealed and waterproof. If you see any exposed wiring, have an electrician or your solar panel installer inspect it so they can properly seal them and avoid shortcuts or corrosion.

Clean The Panels: While rain helps you in this endeavor, keeping an eye out for debris, leaves, or branches blocking your panels from sunlight before and after the rainy season will help significantly to keep them functioning properly.

Install Monitoring Systems: One of the many highlights of having solar panels and energy storage systems like batteries installed when you go solar is that most of these come with apps that can help you track the energy production of your solar panels and address issues right away if you notice a decrease in their efficiency.

DON’T LET THE RAIN DIM YOUR SHINE!

At Sustainable Living Builders, Inc. we believe in taking proactive measures to help you protect your solar panels. That is why we provide our clients with personalized proposals designed specifically to power up their homes and businesses and save costs on their electrical bills, handle permits, ensure secure installation, and schedule all necessary inspections. Having a team of professionals installing your solar panels is a great way to get comfortable in your home while you enjoy the rain and stay powered up. Are you ready to continue binge-watching?