Infamous hailstorms can be a headache for those with installed home solar panels in Calgary. While these systems are designed to withstand severe weather, hail can still cause indirect issues, particularly by damaging roofs.
According to Paul Hannania, CEO of Panel Upgrade Experts, recent hail events have demonstrated how resilient modern solar panels can be, but maintenance following these storms is crucial.
Here, we’ll explore best practices for inspecting, maintaining, and, if necessary, removing and reinstalling solar panels after a hailstorm.
How Well Do Solar Panels In Calgary Hold Up Against Hail?
High-quality solar panels are designed to withstand hailstones up to the size of golf balls or larger, ensuring durability in harsh conditions. Reflecting on Calgary’s August 2024 hailstorm, Paul explained that while many roofs needed repairs, the solar panels held up remarkably well.
“The solar panels hold up very well [against] hail… Most of the work we’ve been doing is removals for roof repair.” – Paul Hannania, Panel Upgrade Experts CEO
Mid-summer hail storms in Calgary are not uncommon, and Paul’s observations underscore the durability of modern solar panels in these situations. However, just because the panels are sturdy doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Panels installed at an angle or on certain types of roofs may be more susceptible to impact. After a major hailstorm, a thorough inspection is always recommended.
For more tips on preserving your solar investments against hailstorms, check out our How Calgary Hailstorm Affects Solar Panels blog.
Essential Steps to Take After a Hailstorm | Panel Upgrade Experts says:
If you have solar panels on your roof, here are the essential steps to ensure they continue to function efficiently after a hailstorm.
1. Conduct a Visual Inspection
Start with a visual inspection of your residential solar panels in Calgary to check for any visible signs of damage. Although solar panels can withstand significant impacts, the frames, glass, or individual cells can sometimes sustain minor cracks or chips.
Spotting these early can prevent more severe issues later. If you’re unsure about what to look for or don’t feel comfortable inspecting the panels yourself, you can schedule a professional inspection with a solar technician.
2. Evaluate Roof Integrity
Even if your solar panels look fine, your roof might not be. Hail can damage roofing materials, leading to leaks or weakened support structures, which indirectly affect your solar setup. As Paul mentioned, “Most of the work we’ve been doing is removals for roof repair.” If your roof needs repairs, your solar panels may need to be temporarily removed and reinstalled.
3. Arrange Panel Removal and Reinstallation if Needed
When it’s necessary to repair the roof, temporarily removing the panels is often required to prevent further complications. “Once we get notified by the homeowner that there’s going to be some work done on the roof, we will liaise with the homeowner and the roofer to remove the panels,” Paul explained. This involves taking down the panels, rails, and inverters, which are stored safely until the roof repair is complete.
Removing and reinstalling panels may sound daunting, but when done by an experienced team, it can be fairly straightforward. Paul assured that while the process requires precision, it is manageable: “It’s both a little bit quicker and a little bit more tricky because the materials are all exact sizes and pre-installed materials.”
4. Check for Structural Integrity of Mounting Systems
Sometimes, hail doesn’t just damage roofing materials—it can also affect the mounting systems that secure your solar panels. Look for signs of loose or bent rails, rust, or broken brackets. If there’s damage here, a professional inspection is recommended to avoid compromising your system’s integrity.
5. Let Panel Upgrade Experts Handle Everything
If your solar panels were installed by Panel Upgrade Experts, you’re in good hands. We understand how stressful storm-related repairs can be and are dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible for our clients.
Panel Upgrade Experts will take care of everything from inspection and documentation to removal and reinstallation when needed, getting your system back up and running with minimal downtime.
Once notified of roof repair needs, we’ll coordinate with both you and the roofing professionals to take care of every detail, so you don’t have to worry.
Common Concerns About Home Solars
It’s natural to feel uneasy when your solar panels, and the roof they sit on, are exposed to extreme weather. Homeowners often ask several common questions after a hailstorm, such as:
Is there any damage to the panels?
Homeowners worry about invisible damage to their panels. According to Paul, taking pictures and giving detailed updates are part of their process when assessing and communicating with clients. “We can take pictures of [any damage]…if there’s any damage before we get up there,” Paul explained.
How long does it take to remove and reinstall panels?
Depending on the size of the installation, removing panels can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, and reinstalling can take about the same amount of time. “We’re trying to minimize the downtime for our clients,” Paul said, understanding the financial implications of extended downtime for solar production.
Ensuring Optimal Performance Post-Storm
After everything is back in place, it’s essential to check your system’s performance to catch any issues early. Some monitoring systems allow you to track output; a noticeable drop in energy production could indicate hidden damage to a panel or component.
A professional inspection can also detect micro-cracks or other subtle issues that might not be immediately visible but could affect long-term performance. Like what Paul highlighted, early detection and professional oversight are key, as unnoticed damage can impact system efficiency over time.
Given Calgary’s unpredictable weather, taking preventative measures can help protect your solar setup from future hailstorms. Routine inspections, especially before and after hail season, can catch small issues before they become more serious.
Some companies also offer protective coatings that add an extra layer of protection against hail and debris—ask your installer if this option suits your panels. Additionally, heavy-duty mounts or angled installations can reduce the risk of direct hail impact for homeowners in hail-prone areas, further protecting your investment.
Contact Panel Upgrade Experts today for expert advice and support!
Trust Panel Upgrade Experts For Hassle-Free Solar Maintenance And Repairs
While some maintenance steps can be done yourself, more extensive inspections and repairs require professional expertise. Whether your solar panels need temporary removal, a detailed assessment, or damage repair, working with an experienced team ensures a safe, thorough job. As Paul noted, “There’s a financial investment, so [homeowners] want to have a minimum amount of loss or production, and we’re generally quite accommodating.”
If you need more information on solar panel maintenance or want to schedule a post-hailstorm inspection, call Panel Upgrade Experts. We’re here to help ensure your system runs efficiently, regardless of Calgary’s climate challenges.
Interested in saving with solar panels in Calgary? Contact Panel Upgrade Experts today.
