It’s that time of year again when everybody starts to worry about hurricanes. The good news is, there are things you can do to prepare for them. The bad news is not everything is within your control.

One thing you might be wondering is whether your solar panels will still work after a hurricane.

What Are Solar Panels?

Solar panels are a type of renewable energy that converts sunlight into electricity. You can use them to power your home or sell them back to the electric company.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

A solar panel consists of solar cells. When sunlight hits the cells, it causes electrons to move around and create an electric current. This current is what powers your appliances and lights.

Advantages of Solar Panels

There are numerous benefits of using solar panels, such as:

  • They are a renewable source of energy
  • They help reduce your carbon footprint
  • They can save you extra budget on your electric bill
  • They can increase the value of your home

Will Solar Panels Survive a Hurricane?

Hurricanes are powerful storms with high winds and heavy rain. So, it’s natural to wonder if your solar panels will hold up against them. Plus, you have to prepare and learn more about avoiding expensive aftermaths, such as water damage.

Most solar panels are built to withstand high winds. They have been tested in wind speeds of up to 150 mph. They are usually mounted on your roof, which provides additional support.

However, some things could damage your solar panels during a hurricane, such as:

  • Flying debris
  • Falling trees
  • Flooding

If you live in a region prone to hurricanes like Florida, it’s crucial to have a plan in case of inclement weather. This should include a way to secure your solar panels, so they don’t get damaged.

How to Protect Your Solar Panels From Hurricane Damage?

Here is your to-do list to protect your solar panels from hurricane damage:

  • Trim trees around your property so they can’t fall on your house and damage your solar panels.
  • Secure your solar panels to your roof, so they don’t blow away.
  • If you have a portable generator, make sure it’s ready to go in case you lose power.
  • Ensure you have plenty of batteries on hand if your power goes out.

Solar Panels Vs. Other Sources of Light

When the electricity goes out, it’s necessary to have a way to see in the dark. Solar panels can provide light during a power outage. If you don’t have solar panels, you can use a battery-powered light or a flashlight. You can also use a kerosene lamp or a propane lamp.

So, are solar panels better than other sources of light? This depends on your needs and where and how you use the light.

Solar panels are a good option for powering your home during a power outage. They can provide light and power for your appliances and lights. Other light sources, such as flashlights and battery-powered lights, are suitable for portable use.

Conclusion

Will your solar panels work after a hurricane? The answer is most likely yes. However, you need to take some measures to protect them from damage. If you live in an area susceptible to hurricanes, it’s important to have a plan in case of severe weather.

This should include a way to secure your solar panels, so they don’t get damaged, including trimming trees around your property and securing them to your roof.

On top of these, if you experience water damage due to flood or leaks, call professionals right away, such as these property restoration Lake Worth experts.