ARE Solar - What To Do If You Suspect Hail Damage To Your Solar Panels?

ARE Solar, a leading solar panel installation and maintenance company in Denver, CO, is explaining whether solar panel reinstallation is necessary after a hail storm. As hail storms can potentially damage roofs, and less often, solar panels, homeowners and businesses need to be aware of the impact and take appropriate action to protect their solar energy systems.

Impact of Hail Storms on Solar Panels

Hail storms can pose a threat to solar panels. However, with advanced technology and newer materials, solar panels can withstand hail storms without significant damage. Companies like ARE Solar provide solar panels of high-quality and durable materials. They also meticulously carry out solar panel installation to function optimally and withstand severe weather better. The impact of hailstones can sometimes cause physical damage to the panels, including cracks, dents, or shattered glass. This damage affects the aesthetic appeal of the panels and can compromise their performance and efficiency over time if left unaddressed. However, the roof may be damaged more often and need repairs or replacement, even when the solar panels have not sustained significant damage from the hail storm.

Signs of Hail Damage to Look for

Solar panel owners must be vigilant and promptly identify any signs of hail damage. Some common indicators include visible cracks or chips on the panel surface, broken glass, loose or misaligned mounting brackets, and reduced energy production. If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to seek professional assistance to assess the extent of the damage.

What To Do About Solar Panels After A Hail Storm

After a hail storm, it is recommended to contact a reputable solar panel service provider like ARE Solar for a thorough inspection. Their team of experts will assess the extent of the damage and determine whether solar panel reinstallation is necessary. Prompt action can prevent further deterioration and ensure the long-term performance of the solar energy system.

After a major hail storm, ARE Solar recommends the following actions for homeowners with PV Solar Systems:

If you have online site monitoring, review it to ensure that all solar equipment functions properly.
Check for any noticeable damage or shattered panels if your solar panels are visible from the ground. If any panels are shattered, it indicates roof damage, and the roofing material should be replaced.
It is not recommended to inspect the roof yourself for hail damage. However, if you insist on doing it, securely strap down your ladder and have another capable person present during the inspection.
Contact a trusted roofing company to inspect your roof for hail damage.

After your roof inspection and insurance claim approval for shingle/roofing material replacement, follow these steps provided by ARE Solar:

If you are a previous customer who had a complete PV installation by ARE Solar, you can enjoy a $20 discount per panel. For instance, a 20-panel project would receive a $400 discount.
In most cases, the roofing company handling the insurance claim will also manage the detachment and reinstallation of your solar panels.
ARE Solar will carefully review the plans and site photos of your PV system to determine if any components, such as flashings, racking, or conduit, require updating or replacement.
If necessary, an in-person site visit will be conducted by ARE Solar to inspect your solar equipment and ensure everything is in order.
If you have damaged solar panels, ARE Solar will submit a warranty claim to assess if the manufacturer covers replacements. Please note that cracked glass panels cannot be repaired.
ARE Solar will contact the local building jurisdiction to determine if obtaining a new permit is necessary for the PV portion of the re-roofing project.
ARE Solar will provide you and the roofing company with a detailed quote for the detachment and reinstallation of your PV Solar System.

Once the quote is approved and the roofing company's inspection has passed, the following steps will be taken:

ARE Solar's payment policy for re-roofs requires 50% payment before solar removal and the remaining 50% before re-installation.
ARE Solar will work with you and the roofing company to determine a convenient day for the solar panel removal.
Before detaching the solar panels, ARE Solar will thoroughly test the system's functionality. Any necessary equipment upgrades or replacements will be noted and can be submitted for manufacturer warranty.
Removing solar panels and racking typically takes only one day to complete.
ARE Solar will ensure that all roof holes and penetrations are properly sealed to prevent any leaks during the panel removal and installation of the new roof.
Your solar panels and equipment will be safely stored on-site by ARE Solar in a protected location, minimizing the risk of theft or further damage.

Once the roofing company has installed the new shingles/roofing material and passed their inspection:

ARE Solar will schedule the solar panel reinstallation after the roofing work is completed.
Before reinstallation, the second 50% payment is due as per ARE Solar's payment policy.
ARE Solar will utilize detailed notes and photos taken during the removal process to ensure the accurate reinstallation of your PV system.
After re-installation, the system will be paired with the inverter/IQ Combiner box, and thorough operational checks will be performed to ensure everything is functioning optimally.

Once the re-roof project is fully completed, ARE Solar encourages customers to provide online ratings and reviews and refer the company to friends, family, and neighbors to help spread the word about their positive experiences.

Advantages of Solar Panel Reinstallation

Solar panel reinstallation offers several advantages for homeowners and businesses. By opting for reinstallation, you can restore the integrity of your solar energy system, ensuring optimal performance and maximum energy production. It allows for proper alignment and positioning of the panels, enhancing their efficiency and longevity. Moreover, solar panel reinstallation presents an opportunity to address any pre-existing issues and make necessary upgrades to your system, such as adding more panels or implementing advanced technologies.

About ARE Solar

ARE Solar is a reputable solar energy company based in Denver, CO, specializing in solar panel installation, maintenance, and repair services. With a commitment to sustainability and exceptional customer service, ARE Solar helps customers harness the power of solar energy while ensuring the longevity and performance of their solar systems. They have an experienced repair team to provide a complete, long-lasting home solar panel repair service. Their certified technicians quickly identify and address issues, making them the best local solar panel repair company in Denver, CO. Call (720) 706-2773 to schedule solar panel repair service you can trust in Denver, CO, by ARE Solar.