---
description: Protecting Solar Panels from Hail includes using protective covers, Methacrylate coating, and a wire mesh guard.
title: 10 Ways to Protect Solar Panels from Hail - Energy Theory
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---

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# 10 Ways to Protect Solar Panels from Hail

By [Olivia Bolt](https://energytheory.com/author/olivia_bolt/)December 9, 20237 Mins Read

![Ways to Protect Solar Panels from Hail 2](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Ways-to-Protect-Solar-Panels-from-Hail-2-1024x683.webp "10 Ways to Protect Solar Panels from Hail")

Solar panels are known for their durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. Although hail is a common concern, it is generally not damaging. However, during severe hailstorms, the impact may exceed the resilience of panels. The good news is that you can take proactive measures to protect solar panels from hail and mitigate their damaging effects. Read till the end for practical tips.

## **Ways to Protect Solar Panels from Hail**

Hail, as solid ice, poses a greater threat than snow due to its potential for physical damage or reduced efficiency. The rate at which hailstones fall during hailstorms heightens the risk of solar panel damage. Despite technological advances in hail-resistant panels, it is best to **stay cautious and use covers for additional protection**.

Solar panels, with thick tempered glass, can **endure hail diameters from 1 to 1.75 inches**, propelled at speeds of 25 to 40 mph, and typically withstand severe hailstorms. Hail sizes exceeding 2 inches can damage solar panels. Moreover, some states may experience rare instances of exceptionally high hailstorms, recorded with an 8-inch diameter. Employing solar panel covers is a valuable defense against larger hailstones in hail-prone areas.

Protecting solar panels from hail includes the following tips:

### **1. Employ Protective Covers**

![Solar Panel Protective Covers](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Solar-Panel-Protective-Covers-How-they-work-and-their-benefits-2-1024x683.webp)

Protect solar panels from scratches and light debris with temporary covers made of clothing materials. **Choose covers with solid sides and panel leg holes or a mesh top** without a bottom. Some covers have side openings for easy repairs that do not require extensive dismantling. Durable solar panel protective covers offer significant protection against weather elements, especially one-inch hail. Regular cleaning is necessary to avoid dirt buildup.

For a complete understanding of covers, check out [Solar Panel Protective Covers: How they Work and their Benefits](https://energytheory.com/solar-panel-protective-covers/)

### **2. Apply Methacrylate Coating**

Methacrylate, a common monomer in polymer plastic, acts as a protective coating against rain, high winds, and hailstorms. This **transparent Plexiglas shield does not block sunlight,** ensuring efficient solar cell operation in adverse conditions.

The coating can be sprayed on or applied as a thin layer, but it should be used with caution near conducting areas such as metal parts. Proper application is essential as too little may be ineffective, and too much may obstruct sunlight.

### **3. Select Appropriate Solar Panels**

Consider the variety of solar panels and examine the quality of materials, taking your specific climate into account. Verify hail damage testing and check for a hail test certification or manufacturer information. **Review the brand’s warranty period** for protection against adverse weather conditions. Familiarize yourself with local weather patterns before installation, especially in hail-prone areas.

### **4. Construct a Wire Mesh Guard**

Create an inexpensive protective cover using a wire mesh guard or PVC pipe to shield solar panels from wind and hail. Consider the number of wires required for effective protection while allowing sunlight to pass through.

### **5. Install an Automated Solar Panel Angle System**

![solar photo voltaic panels: protecting solar panels from hail](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Solar-panel-1-1024x682.jpg)

Protecting solar panels from hail requires an automated solar panel angle system to provide continuous sunlight access in bad weather. **Use a remote to adjust** the surface exposure by changing the angle. Monitor the weather forecast for optimal panel protection in changing conditions.

### **6. Stay Informed with Weather Predictions**

Solar system owners should stay updated on weather forecasts** through apps, newspapers, or television.** Utilizing these sources is crucial for better maintenance, preparing for weather changes, and protecting solar panels from hail damage.

### **7. Regularly Inspect Solar Panels**

Conduct regular visual inspections **for cracks, warping, or bending of the frame, and signs of weather damage** in the racking system. Even minor cracks can impact energy production, emphasizing the importance of early problem identification especially during hailstorms. Monitor the [grid inverter](https://energytheory.com/best-grid-tie-inverter-with-limiter/) for abnormalities and seek professional assistance if warning signs appear.

### **8. Utilize Monitoring Applications**

Keeping track of system performance through monitoring apps, which include features such as the voltage meter, enables users to take appropriate action when necessary. This is one of the important tips for protecting solar panels from hail. Paying attention to these indicators regularly ensures proactive maintenance and maximum efficiency.

### **9. Check for UL 61730 or IEC 61730 Solar Panel Rating**

![solar panels hail damage insurance](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/solar-panels-hail-damage-insurance-1024x683.jpg)

Solar panels undergo **extensive testing for durability in outdoor and adverse weather conditions.** [Underwriters’ Laboratories](https://www.ul.com/news/ul1703-ul-61730-pv-module-safety-standards-updates-making-transition) (UL) conducts hail impact tests and certifies PV modules under the UL 61730 rating, while the [International Electrotechnical Commission](https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/25674) (IEC) conducts similar tests under IEC 61730.

The primary distinction is jurisdiction, with UL markings applicable to North American markets and IEC markings serving as a global standard for international locations. Solar panels with UL 61730 or IEC 61730 markings can withstand hailstones ranging from one to three inches in size and travel at speeds ranging from 16.8 mph to 88.3 mph.

### **10. Repair instead of Replace**

If your solar panel is damaged by hail, repairing it may be less expensive than you anticipated. Assess the damage to see if only the frame needs to be replaced rather than the entire solar panel.

Before spending personal funds on repairs, **check your warranty and homeowners insurance,** as these situations are frequently covered by insurance. You can attempt the repairs yourself if you are skilled or willing to learn, but it is a complex and potentially dangerous task, making professional assistance a viable option.

**Also Read:** [How to Protect Solar Lights from Rain](https://energytheory.com/how-to-protect-solar-lights-from-rain/)

### **How to Claim Solar Panels Hail Damage Insurance**

After implementing the methods for protecting solar panels from hail, if your panels are still damaged, **homeowners insurance acts as a financial safeguard**. It covers damages to both rooftop and ground-mounted solar panel systems caused by unforeseen events such as hail, lightning, fire, and wind, and provides reimbursement for repairs. 

Navigating the insurance process for solar panel hail damage can be challenging. The following is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to successfully claiming solar panel hail damage insurance:

#### **1. Inspect the Inverter **

After a hailstorm, check your inverter, which automatically **scans for problems** and displays error codes. Contact the installation company or inverter manufacturer if issues are displayed.

#### **2. Check for Solar Panel Hail Damage**

![Solar Panel Degradation](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Solar-Panel-Degradation-1024x683.jpg)

After the storm, inspect your solar panels from the ground rather than climbing the roof, which can be dangerous.

**Also See:** [Can Solar Panels Work Through Glass?](https://energytheory.com/can-solar-panels-work-through-glass/)

#### **3. Authenticate the Damage**

Authenticate and **immediately report** hail damage to your insurance company to clarify coverage for solar panel hail damage, avoiding delays or confusion. This is the first step to claiming solar panel hail damage insurance.

#### **4. Understand Insurance Procedures**

After reporting the covered damage, your insurance company will facilitate the quote and replacement process through established contractors or third-party services. However, it’s crucial to understand their policies, as they may **require independent repair quotes**. They may dispatch a contractor or require an inspection by a qualified electrician.

#### **5. Obtain Quotes**

![protecting solar panels from hail and claim solar insurance](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/protecting-solar-panels-from-hail-and-claim-solar-nsurance-1024x683.jpg)

Following the approval of the damage report, gather quotes for replacement panels by your insurer’s specific procedures.

#### 6.** Repair the Solar Panel Hail Damage**

Once the quote is approved, proceed with the repair or replacement, keeping detailed records of the work done.

#### **7. Check the Warranties**

After replacing the damaged solar panels, make sure you have the warranty information for the new ones, especially if they differ in brand, make, or model.

**Note:** This guide provides general information; the process may differ depending on your coverage, policy, and provider. **Contact your insurance provider directly for personalized details** on solar panel coverage, including protection against hail damage. Check your solar panel warranty for potential manufacturer guarantees against hail damage.

Protecting solar panels from hail damage requires a combination of proactive and strategic measures. By selecting hail-resistant solar panels with industry certification, erecting a protective structure, and claiming insurance, you can ensure continuous solar energy while bearing no extra cost for repairs.

**Recommended:** [Meraki Solar Review](https://energytheory.com/meraki-solar-review/)

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[Olivia Bolt](https://energytheory.com/author/olivia_bolt/)

Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet's long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.

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