Solar panels are a strong investment for many Adelaide businesses, especially as more commercial buildings across South Australia look to reduce running costs and commit to cleaner energy. But with the benefits of solar come a few challenges too, and one of the biggest threats to solar panels installed on large rooftops is hail damage.
Hail can hit hard during late winter and early spring months in Adelaide. Even panels built with strong materials can take a hit when large hailstones come down at speed. That’s why protecting your solar installation before any damage happens is the smart move. Let’s go through how hail can impact commercial panels and what you can do to keep your system in top shape year-round.
Understanding Hail Damage
Solar panels are built to handle weather changes, but not all panels are equally tough. On some commercial sites, you’ll find solar panels that are cracked, scratched or showing hotspots after just one bad storm. These signs often come from hail damage that wasn’t addressed early. Even when there’s no clear break in the glass, the impact of hailstones can weaken internal layers. This might not look like much from ground level, but it can affect how well your system works and how long it lasts.
Hail doesn’t need to be massive to cause problems. If your roof pitch is flat or low, there’s a higher chance of panels facing direct hits, which increases the chances of damage. Different types of panels also respond differently to impacts. For example, lower-quality panels might crack more easily, while better-engineered ones can take a few hits and still deliver great output.
When there’s damage like this, it can impact:
– Energy output: small cracks can throw off performance across multiple panels
– Safety: damaged areas can start electrical faults
– Long-term durability: compromised panels break down quicker over time
Understanding what hail can do to panels on a commercial building helps you decide on the right products and system setup from the start.
Prevention Strategies That Actually Work
Rather than fixing problems after they happen, a good prevention plan starts before a single panel goes on the roof. This matters even more for large commercial properties where panel replacement can be expensive and disruptive.
If hailstorms are common in your area, here’s what to consider:
1. Choose Panels Rated for Impact
Look for panels that meet or exceed industry hail testing standards. Some brands are put through higher-spec tests to confirm they can resist larger hailstones. These are the types of panels that suit South Aussie conditions and are worth investing in for long-term reliability.
2. Consider Protective Shielding
Polycarbonate covers or mesh guards may offer extra protection. These aren’t always suitable depending on your system type, so it’s worth speaking with a qualified solar provider for a proper assessment.
3. Mount Panels at a Better Angle
A low pitch isn’t ideal for hail-prone areas. Tilting panels slightly more can help hail roll off faster instead of hitting dead-on. The layout should match your roof size, type, and local climate conditions.
4. Use Strong Framing and Mounting Systems
It’s not just the panel surface that matters. A solid bracket setup helps absorb vibrations caused by impact. Quality framing also keeps panels fixed securely during windy conditions that often come with hail.
5. Avoid Panels With Weak Points
Lower-end systems can sometimes have poor laminate seals or cheaper glass that allows microcracks to form more easily. Saving on cost upfront could end up costing you more later.
Thinking through these points before your install can make a massive difference later down the track. A proactive setup means fewer headaches when the skies turn grey.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
To keep solar panels working efficiently, regular inspections and maintenance are key. It’s smart to schedule professional checks at least once a year. During these inspections, experts can spot troublemakers like small cracks or loose mountings that might go unnoticed. By catching these issues early, you can avoid bigger, costlier repairs down the line.
Routine maintenance also ensures that your solar panels operate at their best. This includes checking wiring connections and confirming that systems are functioning properly. A professional’s trained eye can spot efficiency drops that might not be immediately visible. Remember, keeping your system in good condition doesn’t just limit damage, it also maximises energy savings.
Weather Monitoring and Emergency Preparedness
Staying informed about the weather can protect your solar investment. Using a weather monitoring system gives you a heads-up when storms are brewing. When alerts signal incoming hail, you’ve got time to prepare and safeguard your panels.
Here’s how businesses can brace for severe weather:
– Weather Monitoring Systems: Install systems that provide real-time updates and forecasts. These tools help track approaching storms and offer an opportunity to act quickly
– Temporary Panel Covers: Having removable covers on hand lets you shield your panels when a storm is near. Some businesses use tarps or custom-fitted shields to guard against impact
– Adjust Panel Positioning: For panels that can be adjusted, angling them to help hail slide off more easily is beneficial. This reduces the chances of direct impact and potential damage
Preparedness not just saves your panels from immediate harm, but also helps in maintaining long-term efficiency.
How Sustainable Savings Can Help
Making the right choices from the beginning is key to long-term system performance. At Sustainable Savings, we work with brands like SunPower and Maxeon that are known for their strength, reliability and long-term value.
We know Adelaide weather, and we know solar. Whether it’s recommending a high-impact rated panel or guiding your installation angle to reduce exposure risk, the advice we give is backed by local experience and engineering knowledge. Our team also ensures each mounting and framing system is matched properly to your building type.
As South Australia’s only SunPower Elite Partner, we offer access to panels that have undergone rigorous hail and impact testing, helping you keep your energy flowing even after harsh storms.
Protect Your Solar Investment Today
Choosing commercial solar is a smart step, but protecting that investment is just as important. Hail damage might seem like something you’re forced to accept, but with the right setup, it’s completely manageable.
Spend the time choosing quality panels, mount them in a way that suits Adelaide’s conditions, and put a regular inspection plan in place. Combine that with reliable alerts and emergency protection, and you’ve done everything possible to keep your system performing at its best.
When the weather changes, your solar shouldn’t suffer. Get proactive, talk to the experts, and know that your system is built to last.
Wondering how to ensure your solar investment weathers the storms? Sustainable Savings has everything needed for strong and durable solar panels on commercial building. Discover more about reliable choices and installation strategies that keep your solar setup efficient and resilient in challenging weather.
