Should I Have Surge Protection for My Solar?
Looking to switch to solar and power up your home with the energy of the sun? As you start diving into the world of solar, it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. There are lots of questions to ask and a lot to learn. One of those questions may be whether you need surge protection for your new system. Read on to learn all about surge protection for your solar energy system, and why it’s so important.
Surge Protection Is a Necessity for Solar Energy Systems
While surge protection is a small part of an overall solar system installation, it’s a critical one. Just like other electrical devices and equipment, solar panels are vulnerable to sudden boosts in voltage that can damage the panels’ internal components.
If your new system doesn’t have surge protection, your investment could be rendered useless the next time lightning strikes. Since solar panels are always exposed in places like roofs or fields and contain metallic components, they’re prime targets for lightning strikes, so they need to be protected from power surges.
Lightning and Solar Systems Don’t Mix
The truth is, lightning doesn’t even have to strike your new solar system to do damage. Of course, direct strikes affect solar energy systems the most but strikes to the grid or to the earth nearby your solar panels can cause degenerative damage over time.
When lightning hits a solar panel, it produces a current that can fail the insulation, panels, inverters, and communication equipment in the system. The combiner box and MPPT devices are particularly vulnerable to failure in this type of circumstance. Even if the panels themselves remain intact, the circuit controls and energy storage devices will be rendered unusable. It is important to consider these risks when using solar panels and take appropriate measures to protect against lightning strikes.
Your Solar System Needs Surge Protection
While solar energy systems have come a long way in recent years, it’s important to remember that no technology is perfect, and even the most advanced solar power systems can be vulnerable to damage from power surges. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your solar power system is equipped with surge protection.
With surge protection, you can rest assured that your investment is safe from unexpected damage caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and other common risks. So don’t take any chances—make a small investment in surge protection and enjoy the many benefits of reliable, uninterrupted solar power.
Have Questions About Switching to Solar? We’ve Got Answers!
There’s a lot to know when it comes to making the switch to solar energy to power your home. Luckily, the solar experts at Solar Bear of Tampa are ready to answer all your questions! Call us today at (727) 471-7442 and learn how easy it is to make the switch and harness free, clean energy from the sun!
