Are solar panel warranties affected by hail damage?

Understanding Hail Damage Protection

Solar panel manufacturers typically offer a hail test or impact resistance certification, which indicates the panels’ ability to withstand hailstones of a certain size and speed. For example, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has a standard for hail testing, which involves hitting panels with hailstones of 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter and 0.25 pounds (113 grams) in weight at a speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). If a panel passes this test, it’s more likely to be protected against hail damage under warranty.

Assessing Damage and Warranty Claims

If a solar panel system is damaged by hail, the homeowner should document the damage thoroughly, including photos and videos, and contact the manufacturer or installer for guidance on the warranty claims process. The warranty terms will specify the requirements for making a claim, such as providing proof of damage, completing a damage assessment report, and following a specific claims procedure. Homeowners should also review their insurance policies to see if they have coverage for solar panel damage.

Manufacturer-Specific Hail Damage Protection

Some solar panel manufacturers offer more comprehensive hail damage protection than others. For example, SunPower’s X-Series solar panels have a hail test certification of up to 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter and 0.25 pounds (113 grams) in weight at a speed of 50 mph (80 km/h), while Tesla’s SolarCity solar panels have a hail test certification of up to 1.5 inches (38 mm) in diameter and 0.25 pounds (113 grams) in weight at a speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). Homeowners should research their manufacturer’s hail damage protection and warranty terms to understand their coverage.