Are Solar Panels Hail Proof?

Solar panels are built to last. But if you live in an area where hailstorms are common, you might wonder: Are solar panels hail proof? After all, no one wants to invest in a solar system only to see it get damaged in extreme weather.

The good news? Most modern solar panels are designed to withstand hail, but there are important factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll break it all down—how durable solar panels really are, how they’re tested for hail resistance, and what you can do to protect your investment.

How Durable Are Solar Panels?

Let’s get straight to the point—solar panels are incredibly tough. They have to be. When you install a solar system, you expect it to last 25 years or more, and manufacturers ensure they can handle various weather conditions, including rain, snow, strong winds, and, yes, even hail.

Industry Testing for Hail Resistance

Most solar panels undergo rigorous testing to meet international durability standards. Specifically, they’re tested under conditions that mimic real-world hailstorms. The standard test involves:

• Firing ice balls (hailstones) at 83 km/h (52 mph) at the panels

• Using hailstones up to 25 mm (1 inch) in diameter

• Checking for cracks, power loss, or structural damage

High-quality panels exceed these standards, making them resilient against most typical hailstorms. However, extreme weather events with larger hailstones can still pose a risk.

Real-World Performance in Hailstorms

You might be wondering, Okay, that’s lab testing—but what about real life?

In 2017, a massive hailstorm in Denver, Colorado, hit the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) research facility. Out of over 3,000 solar panels on the site, only one panel was damaged. This is a strong testament to the durability of well-made solar panels.

Can Hail Damage Solar Panels?

While solar panels are tough, they’re not completely indestructible. Severe hailstorms with hailstones larger than 50 mm (2 inches) can cause damage. However, this is rare and typically happens during extreme weather events.

Signs of Hail Damage

If a solar panel is damaged by hail, it may show:

• Cracks or chips in the glass

• Loss of efficiency (lower energy production)

• Burn marks or discolored areas (from internal damage)

If you suspect your solar panels have been hit hard by a storm, it’s best to have them inspected by a professional like Chris Ramsey at Ramselec Solar.

How to Protect Your Solar Panels from Hail

Although modern solar panels are built to withstand hail, there are extra precautions you can take to protect your system:

1. Choose High-Quality, Hail-Resistant Panels

Not all solar panels are created equal. Premium solar brands like LG, SunPower, and REC offer higher durability and better warranties, ensuring better hail resistance.

2. Install Solar Panels at an Angle

Panels installed at an angle allow hailstones to hit at a glancing blow rather than head-on, reducing the risk of damage. Chris Ramsey and the team at Ramselec Solar can design an installation that maximizes both energy efficiency and durability.

3. Invest in Solar Panel Protective Covers

For areas prone to severe hailstorms, specialized solar panel covers or hail-resistant coatings can offer an additional layer of protection.

4. Check Your Home Insurance Policy

Most home insurance policies cover hail damage to solar panels, but it’s always good to confirm. Some policies may require an add-on for full protection.

What to Do If Your Solar Panels Get Damaged by Hail

If a hailstorm does hit and you suspect damage, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the panels (from a safe distance). Look for visible cracks, discoloration, or any other signs of damage.

2. Monitor your energy output. A sudden drop in performance could indicate internal damage.

3. Contact a professional. The team at Ramselec Solar can assess the damage and recommend repair or replacement options.

4. File an insurance claim if needed. If your panels are covered under your home insurance, you may be able to get them replaced at little or no cost.

Are Solar Panels Worth It If You Live in a Hail-Prone Area?

Absolutely! Even in regions that experience hail, solar remains a smart, long-term investment. Here’s why:

• Solar panels are extremely durable and can withstand most weather conditions.

• Even if a panel gets damaged, it’s usually covered by warranty or insurance.

• The energy savings and environmental benefits outweigh the rare risk of hail damage.

If you’re considering going solar in Melbourne or surrounding areas, Chris Ramsey and the team at Ramselec Solar are here to help. With years of expertise in installing durable, high-performance solar systems, they’ll ensure you get the best protection and return on your investment.

Key Takeaways

✅ Most solar panels are hail-resistant and tested to withstand impact from hailstones up to 25 mm (1 inch). ✅ Severe hailstorms can cause damage, but this is rare and typically covered by warranties or insurance. ✅ Proper installation, high-quality panels, and protective measures can further reduce the risk of hail damage. ✅ Solar is still worth it, even in hail-prone regions, due to its long-term benefits.

Get Expert Advice from Ramselec Solar

If you’re thinking about installing solar panels and want expert guidance, Chris Ramsey at Ramselec Solar is your go-to professional. Whether you need a new system, a hail damage assessment, or just some friendly advice, contact us today:

📞 Call us at 1300 495 322
📧 Email us at ********[email protected]
🌍 Visit our website for more information

Related Reads:

• How Much Does Solar Cost in Melbourne?

• Are Solar Batteries Worth It?

• Are Solar Panels Recyclable?

Don’t let hail fears stop you from switching to solar. With the right system and expert installation, you can enjoy clean, renewable energy with peace of mind!