Using the sun's incoming rays to produce electricity is a huge technological advancement, allowing us to live greener lives by leaving fossil fuels behind.

Many households and businesses have decided to make this sustainable choice and power their homes and offices using solar-powered generator systems.

Deciding to switch to solar is a massive financial commitment, especially as a first-time buyer, but you will soon be reaping the benefits of your solar-powered system, from a financial and environmental standpoint.

If you are in the market for solar panels or have already made the life-altering purchase, then you may have a few initial questions.

A common question among new and existing solar panel owners is centered around the waterproofness of solar panel systems and whether the rain will significantly impact their productivity or not. Exactly how durable are solar panels against water and extreme weather conditions?

The good news is that you won’t be left to ponder in the darkness, as we will be answering this exact question.

Solar Panels vs Water

Solar panels degrade over time due to a range of environmental factors that cannot be avoided. These environmental factors are largely associated with weather conditions, but how do solar panels fare when it comes to water?

If you live in an area with periods of heavy rainfall, then you might be a little concerned and hesitant to install a solar panel system.

Thankfully, you have nothing to worry about, as rain does not negatively impact your solar generation system. The efficiency and productivity of your solar energy system will remain unchanged in the presence of a drizzle or normal rainfall.

Solar panels are left exposed to nature's elements for 30 years so they need to be constructed to protect the sensitive components from water damage, and thankfully they are.  

Periods of rainfall, especially in the summer seasons, are needed to wash away dust build or debris that may accumulate on your solar panel surface.

If you live in an arid environment, it is important to monitor the surface of your panels to ensure that they are clean. Debris build-up can significantly impact solar efficiency, so keeping them clean is a high priority. So don’t be afraid to wash your panel surface with a splash of water.

What Makes Solar Panels Waterproof

The electrical components inside the panel are the main source of energy production, so they require waterproof housing. However, what gives this housing its waterproof capabilities?

The silicone cells, wiring, and other essential interior components are enclosed between a polymer back sheet and a reinforced glass cover to ensure extra protection.

The sheet and glass are secured by a tightly wrapped aluminum frame which is incredibly durable. The aluminum frame is sealed using a robust waterproof sealant to ensure that water cannot seep through the seals.

Lastly, ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) is used within the frame to provide added adhesion between cells and the outer surface of your solar panel system.

These components put together are what give solar panels waterproof capabilities, as well as protection against nature's other elements. Additionally, these components make your solar panels EMP-proof.

What About Heavy Rainfall

For the most part, solar panels are waterproof, meaning that moisture won’t have any effect on their functioning, but what happens in the case of heavy rainfall?

If you live in a state or an area that is prone to seasonal thunderstorms and heavy rainstorms then you might be a little hesitant to install a solar panel system, especially when the rain is accompanied by intense gusts of wind.

Not to worry, these states have strict building codes for solar panel installation which will ensure that panels are tightly secured to your roof. The solar panel size, the weight of solar on your roof, and the way they are installed ensure resistance against heavy winds and rainstorms.

Furthermore, solar panel manufacturers will provide you with an equipment warranty that ensures complete cover over any damaged solar panels in the event of a rainstorm.

These warranties will also protect you in the rare case that there is any type of water damage due to construction defects. These equipment warranties can last anywhere from 10 to 12 years and often include re-installation and shipment.  

How Do Solar Panels Fare Against Harsher Conditions

As mentioned above, solar panels are built to withstand seasonal weather conditions, especially in wetter areas. Solar generation systems are quite hardy and go further than just being waterproof.

Solar panels can withstand almost all types of weather-related tension. If you live in the colder states up north that have heavy snowfall, then you have nothing to worry about.

Solar panels can withstand an incredible amount of weight without the glass panel surface cracking. Colder weather has been shown to boost energy production due to the cooling of the panel surface.

Extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes and hailstorms, have the potential to damage your solar panel system, but it is very rare. Sufficient and reinforced racking systems will protect your panel from uplift during these conditions.

On the downside, persistent cold weather can cause solar panel frames to warp, eventually leading to cracked glass and internal damage. It is important to regularly inspect your panel surface to make sure that there is no physical damage, especially after the colder winter months.

Conclusion

Solar panels are waterproof and degradation due to rainfall is incredibly rare. They are constructed to withstand any that nature can throw at them, from heavy rainfall to even periods of snow.

It is important to do your research on suitable solar generation systems and have a good understanding of solar panel specs before purchasing any type of system. If you need further assistance, then you can always reach out to your solar company.

Shop Solar Kits has a support hub and an incredible variety of high-quality solar panel systems that are built to withstand all types of weather conditions. Our customer support services last a lifetime, and you can give us a call for all your solar panel needs and concerns.

So, what’s stopping you? It’s time to go solar. 

The Ultimate Solar + Storage Blueprint (Mini Course)

Struggling to understand how solar + storage systems actually work? Looking to build or buy your own solar power system one day but not sure what you need? Just looking to learn more about solar, batteries and electricity?

Join 15,000+ solar enthusiasts breaking free from their energy dependence with this short step-by-step video course that will make you a solar + storage expert. Start your journey to energy independence today.

Learn More Now

Who is ShopSolar.com?

ShopSolar.com is the #1 digital platform that enables consumers & businesses to source and purchase complete solar + storage solutions direct, saving you thousands in time, energy and money! With over 40,000+ happy customers, we’re on a mission to make solar simple, transparent and affordable.

Did You Find Our Blog Helpful? Then Consider Checking:

• What Wavelength Do Solar Panels Use
• Do Solar Panels Need to Warm up?
• How Many Solar Cells Are in a Solar Panel?
• Do Solar Panels Work in the Rain
• Do Solar Panels Work Underwater
• Do Solar Panels Work in the Winter
• Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days
• Do Solar Panels Work at Night
• Do Solar Panels Work with Moonlight
• Can Solar Panels Work with Artificial Light
• Do Solar Panels Drain Batteries at Night
• Solar Panel Maintenance
• Rust Solar Panel
• How to Keep Snow off Solar Panels?
• How Often Do Solar Panels Need to Be Replaced