How to Handle Broken Solar Panels

The first question that comes in mind when one has broken solar panels is whether to repair them or toss them. Unlike other electrical gadgets, solar panels have longer life expectancy and they are not techs that can just be thrown out just because they are broken. Whether you own or leasing solar panels, it is worth the time repairing them when they get damaged. When getting solar panels, most clients think about what could go wrong and whether investing in panels is a wise financial move. Solar panels are built to handle the elements. However, just like car windshields, panels sometimes take a significant hit that causes them to break. Due to their positioning, most solar panels get physical damages that result from hits from tree branches and lighting. Let’s take a look at how you deal with broken solar panels.
Shattered Glass On Solar Panels
If you are living in an area that is prone to storms, chances are high that your solar panels may get damaged due to knocking trees and branches. Solar panels have tapered glass which means that when the front side of the panel gets hit, the glass will break into small pieces but the glue inside the face of the glass helps these small pieces stay in place. Rarely, the solar cells behind the glass get damaged when the panel glass shatters. If the shattering occurs on a small portion of the panel’s face, the panel is still able to absorb enough light to produce a usable output. The owner can simply repair the panel by waterproofing it.
However, if the shattering on the glass covers a wide surface area, the owner may be forced to replace the whole panel face. A professional solar panel installer will have to come and assess the damage to determine whether the panel cells have been affected as well. After carefully assessing the damage, the solar installer will let the owner know if it is worth repairing the broken panel or replace it.
Damaged Panels Due To Lightning
It is a common thing for solar power systems to get damaged by lightning. Lighting can cause serious damage to a solar panel’s system and in some cases causing irreparable damages. If you live in an area that experiences lots of lightning, you are advised not to install your solar panels near tall trees. If your solar panels get damaged by lighting, you need to call an expert to assess the situation first before taking any further action. Usually, it is hard to fix a solar panel that has been struck by lightning.
Micro Cracks Caused By Elements
Solar panels are made up of silicon cells created from very thin wafers. Due to stress caused by chemical, mechanical and natural factors such as severe cold wind, sun, snow and hail, the panel develops micro cracks which are not visible to the naked eye. These micro cracks are impossible to avoid. However, solar installation companies have a combined power and product warranty that covers damages caused by micro cracks in the event your solar panels are affected. With proper solar panel maintenance, you can prevent micro cracks from causing more damage to your panels.