Quick Answer
Solar panel brands with the best hail damage ratings include SunPower, Panasonic, and Tesla. These brands have undergone rigorous testing and have received high ratings for their durability against hail impacts. They are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Solar Panel Hail Resistance Testing
Solar panel hail resistance is typically tested using the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E 2571 standard, which simulates hail impacts at various speeds and angles. According to this standard, hailstones of 1-inch diameter and 1-pound weight are dropped from 20 feet (6.1 meters) onto the solar panel. Brands like SunPower and Panasonic have undergone this testing and achieved impressive results, with some panels withstanding impacts without any damage.
Top Brands with High Hail Resistance Ratings
Panasonic’s HIT series, for example, has a hail resistance rating of 2-inch (50mm) diameter hailstones at 87 mph (140 km/h), while SunPower’s X-Series panels have a rating of 2-inch (50mm) diameter hailstones at 85 mph (137 km/h). Tesla’s solar panels also have a high hail resistance rating, with some panels able to withstand impacts from 2-inch (50mm) diameter hailstones at 90 mph (145 km/h). These ratings are significantly higher than the industry average, making these brands a popular choice for customers living in areas prone to hailstorms.
Hail Damage Prevention Techniques
While some solar panel brands have naturally higher hail resistance ratings than others, there are also techniques that can help prevent hail damage to solar panels. One such technique is the use of tempered glass, which is designed to be more resistant to impact damage than regular glass. Additionally, installing solar panels at an angle of 15-30 degrees can help prevent hailstones from hitting the panels directly, reducing the risk of damage.
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