Solar panels are built for durability and to withstand most weather conditions experienced in the South East, but like any outdoor equipment, they can still suffer from damage over time or in the event of an extreme weather event. Protecting your panels is essential to maintaining peak energy production and extending their lifespan. This guide will share expert tips and help you prevent the most common causes of solar panel damage.
External Factors That Can Harm Solar Panels
As most solar panels are installed on rooftops, they are exposed to weather and environmental factors, most of which are out of our control. While solar panels are built to withstand the elements, neglect can reduce their efficiency.
Here’s the primary external causes of solar panel damage, and what you can do to reduce the risks.
Falling Debris
Leave, branches and other debris can fall onto you solar panels, causing scratches or damage. While minor scratches are usually cosmetic and don’t affect the efficiency, deeper scratches can block sunlight from reaching the solar cells resulting in reduced or no output depending on the severity. To minimise the risk of this happening, keep nearby trees cut back so they don’t overhang your roof.
Hail and Severe Weather
Hailstones can cause cracks or other damage to your solar panels. Adverse weather can be neither predicted or prevented, so while there is little you can do to reduce the risk of adverse weather on your solar panels, there is plenty you can do if you experience poor weather conditions. Monitor your solar panels through your monitoring app, any damage caused by stormy weather or hailstones will be easy to notice, carrying out repairs swiftly will prevent your solar PV system from being down for long periods of time.
Water and Rain Damage
Ok, again another weather related issue, we live in the UK, it’s hard to avoid rain. While water exposure in itself is not an issue for your solar panels, as your solar panels age and become older, it’s worth having them inspected on occasion for worn out seals to ensure no leaks or water damage occurs and maintain efficiency for as long as possible.
Dust and Dirt Accumulation
Solar panels on rooftops can collect dust and residue. The layer of grime can cast shadows on the cells reducing efficiency. Luckily, living in the UK, most dirt and debris is removed with the frequent rainfall we experience, but to ensure nothing builds up it is recommended your solar panels are cleaned – either using a microfibre cloth and hose or hiring in a professional solar panel cleaning service.
Internal Causes of Solar Panel Damage
Damage isn’t always visible from the outside, many internal issues can affect performance. Mostly these are repairable if caught early enough.
Potential Induced Degradation (PID)
PID occurs when voltage fluctuations affect your panels’ internal cells, resulting in reduced performance over time. Routine maintenance can help prevent this issue and ensurers consistent energy output.
Loose or Damaged Wiring
Solar panel wiring connects the solar PV panels to your solar inverter (stored inside your property). Loose connections can interrupt power flow and reduce efficiency. Installing bird protection mesh alongside your solar PV installation can prevent damage to your external wiring by stopping birds and small rodents nesting or chewing on your wires.
Internal Module Faults
Sometimes, solar panels experience internal damage due to manufacturing defects or substandard components. Choosing an MCS-certified installer should reduce the risk of this happening, as all equipment used by an MCS-certified installer is assessed for safety and quality.
If you notice abnormal performance or unusual behaviour in your solar panels or solar PV system, contact a trained professional, rather than attempting repairs yourself. In the long-run it will save you money.
Final Tips to Keep Solar Panels in Top Condition
- Schedule periodic inspections with a trusted, qualified solar technician
- Clean panels regularly to remove dust and debris
- Monitor energy output to catch any decline early
- Choose a qualified installer and components to prevent internal issues
At SolarTherm UK we’re here to help you get the most from your solar investment. Whether you need advice, maintenance or repairs, our team of professional solar experts can ensure your solar PV system continues to perform efficiently for decades.
Contact us today for a free no-obligation quote – no hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
