How Hot Is Too Hot for Solar Panels?
While photovoltaic solar electric systems have been around for years, there are still some common misconceptions regarding how they function. Most people still assume that solar panels function best in hot climates. In fact, a solar system’s efficiency is less about the temperature and more about the amount of sunlight that the system soaks up each day. But is there a temperature that’s too hot for solar panels to function? Read on to learn about how solar systems work in very high heat, as well as other common extreme weather conditions.
Solar Systems Can Withstand Extreme Heat
Solar panels are built to withstand very high temperatures. In fact, the average solar panel can hold up to temperatures of up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit. Even in a warm place like Florida, this is no problem since the weather doesn’t reach over 120 degrees in almost any location in the country. When it comes to solar systems, the more sunlight the better. Your solar panels can soak up as much energy from the sun as possible, regardless of how hot the temperatures get.
Extreme Weather Conditions and Solar Panels
Now that you know that solar panels can withstand extreme heat, how do they hold up to other outdoor elements? Solar panels are built to last and stay put during even the wildest weather conditions, including:
- Heavy Rain: Most solar panels are designed to be waterproof, providing full protection of all electrical components even in the heaviest of rains. Rain won’t affect solar panels—they’ll stay in place and start soaking up energy once the sun comes out again.
- High Winds: The average solar panel is certified to withstand winds of up to 140 mph—higher than the windspeed of the average tornado. While some hurricanes can exceed this speed limit, damage to solar panels is most likely to come from large debris hitting the panels. Even so, solar panel damage is very rare during a hurricane.
- Hail: The average hailstorm rains down ice pellets at the rate of 20 mph. The typical solar panel is designed to withstand hail falling at speeds of up to 50 mph, so they hold up very well during even the most severe hailstorms.
Making the Switch to Solar Is Easier Than Ever
Solar panels are well-designed and well-built, able to withstand virtually anything nature throws at them. From extreme heat to high winds, heavy rains to hailstorms, you can count on your solar panels functioning well and adding value to your home for years to come—even in a place like Florida that sees volatile weather year after year. Want to learn more about how easy it is to switch to solar, and about all the benefits you’ll receive? Reach out to the solar experts at Solar Bear of Tampa today at (727) 471-7442—we’re ready to answer all your questions!
