Are solar panels waterproof?

One of the realities of life in rainy areas is that it rains a lot, especially during the summer. As a result, prospective solar energy system owners in the area are concerned that rain will have a detrimental impact on their system, such as damaging it or reducing its production. So, are solar panels waterproof? Let’s find out.

Are solar panels waterproof?

Yes, solar panels are waterproof. Your solar energy system will be unaffected by rain. Because solar panels are waterproof, moisture will not harm them. In fact, rain is beneficial because it washes away some of the dirt and debris that collects on the panels over time.

Solar panels live outside in the weather for more than 30 years. Almost always, panels on a rooftop or ground-mounted solar array will be exposed to rainy, wet weather, which means panels must be waterproof in order to continue producing power for many years.

You should read What is an umbrella policy for solar panels? to know about solar panels’ warranties.

What about tornadoes or hurricanes? When installing solar energy systems in Florida, solar providers must follow strict building requirements. They fasten solar panels to a building with many attachment points to prevent wind uplift. As a result, Florida solar panels are less vulnerable to damage from blowing debris during a storm. If your panels are damaged by a storm, solar panel manufacturers provide an equipment guarantee that covers any damage to the panels.

Solar panels are not only waterproof, but also resistant to most weather-related stresses. There is no reason for property owners in frigid climates to be concerned about snow. Solar panels can withstand large weight without collapsing, and colder weather increases photovoltaic cell production. Even extreme events such as hurricanes and hail storms rarely have a substantial impact on solar panels; adequate racking systems keep high winds from damaging panels, and the robust glass covering on most panels withstands most hail storms.

Before acquiring a solar energy system, consult with your solar contractor to thoroughly understand the warranty. Unfortunately, rain clouds have a significant impact on your solar energy output. When clouds begin to form, it is best to relocate essential solar-powered gadgets to a non-solar-powered system to ensure that everything continues to function normally.

Solar panels warranties protect from rare cases of water damage

Because solar panels are exposed to the weather for several decades, they must be built to be as water resistant as feasible. All home solar panels are waterproof, and in the unlikely event that they are damaged by water, you are normally covered by the panel manufacturer’s warranty.

Sun panels use solar cells to generate energy. The solar panel’s wiring captures the electricity. Above all, the wiring and other electronics within solar panels are vulnerable to water damage. This is why solar panels are designed to safeguard the more sensitive components.

When solar panels are built, numerous components are employed to make them waterproof. Solar panels are often covered in a thin glass sheet on the front and shielded by a sheet on the rear. The backsheet is often constructed of a long-lasting polymer-based material. These two layers, together with a metal frame and specialist sealant glue, make solar panels waterproof and keep water out of the cells and wiring inside.

Solar panel warranties safeguard against rare instances of water damage.
In rare circumstances, solar panels may have flaws in their manufacturing and may not be completely watertight. To protect your solar panel investment, most solar panel manufacturers provide two warranties: an equipment warranty and a production warranty.

A solar panel equipment warranty covers against faults related to the physical quality of the solar panel. Manufacturing flaws, environmental concerns, and premature wear and tear are all examples of what an equipment warranty might cover. Your equipment warranty will protect you if your solar panels are not waterproof and water destroys a panel in your system. In rare situations, your solar panel manufacturer will not only cover the cost of a new panel, but also its shipment and re-installation. Most equipment warranties are valid for 10 to 12 years.

The production warranty of a solar panel covers against underperforming solar panels. A solar panel, like other electronics, degrades over time, and the amount of energy it generates gradually declines. Production warranties typically promise 90% output after 10 years or roughly 80% output after 25 years. This means that after 10 years, your solar panels should be producing at least 90% of the power they did when they were first placed (or 80% after 25 years). A non-waterproof solar panel may become flooded, resulting in less sunlight reaching the solar cells or possibly shattering individual cells. If this happens to your panels, they will most likely not produce enough electricity to meet their production warranty promise, and your solar panel manufacturer will replace the water-damaged panel.