Key Takeaways:
- Solar panels are a terrific way to lower your carbon footprint and save money on electricity, but if they are not installed correctly, they can also be a fire hazard.
- Solar panels should be installed by a qualified professional.
- They should be inspected regularly for damage or loose connections.
- The panels should be disconnected from the grid during a power outage.
Solar panels are an excellent way to decrease your carbon footprint and save cash on energy bills, but what happens if they catch fire? In this blog post by The Queen Team General Contracting, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing solar panels and how to protect the panels from fire hazards.
Things to Consider When Installing a Solar Panel:
Factor 01: Solar Panel Location
When installing solar panels, location is one of the most crucial variables to consider. The best area to put solar panels is where there is direct sunshine and no obstructions like trees or other structures that might shade the panel. The solar panel should also be installed on a south-facing roof if possible. This will ensure that the panel receives the most sunlight possible and will produce the most electricity.
Factor 02: Solar Panel Size
The size of the solar panel is also an essential factor to consider. Solar panels come in various sizes, and you will need to choose a size appropriate for your needs. The size of a solar panel will determine how much power it can produce.
Factor 03: Solar Panel Efficiency
Solar panel efficiency is another important factor to consider. Solar panels are available in various efficiencies, and you will need to choose an appropriate efficiency for your needs. The higher the efficiency of the solar panel, the more electricity it will be able to produce.
Are Solar Panels a Fire Hazard?
Should you be concerned if you have solar panels? According to expert opinions, solar PV systems have the same level of fire risk as any other electrical equipment since they contain live wires. Under normal conditions, however, this risk is insignificant. The most vulnerable are extremely old, very large, or damaged systems.
What Can Cause Solar Panels to Catch Fire?
Cause 01: Poor Installation
Although there are many technical explanations for why solar panels start home fires, most of them stem from the same (avoidable) cause: faulty installation. To guarantee that the electrical connections are fully code-compliant and that the solar panels are correctly grounded, a qualified solar contractor must install them.
Cause 02: Flashing
Flashing is the most common way that solar panels start fires. Solar panel flashing is the process of installing a weather-resistant barrier around the point where the rooftop meets the solar array. Solar panel flashing is typically made of aluminum or stainless steel.
If the wrong type of material is used for solar panel flashing, it can create a fire hazard. For example, if a contractor uses galvanized steel instead of aluminum for solar panel flashing, the steel can rust and cause sparks that could start a fire.
Cause 03: Electrical Issues
Photovoltaic systems are susceptible to electrical defects such as arc faults, short circuits, ground faults, and reverse currents, much like any other electrical installation. Problems might also be brought on by faulty connections or deteriorating cable insulation. These events can potentially create hot patches that might ignite surrounding combustible material. Photovoltaic fires have also been linked to DC/AC inverters placed improperly or with defects. Voltage fluctuations that result from sending extra power generated by the solar panels to the National Grid are another potential, though uncommon, risk. Solar PV systems are not immune to these variations’ ability to induce problems in electrical machinery.
How Can You Reduce Fire Hazards?
Choosing Experienced Solar PV Installers:
A skilled solar installer is likely to have a solid local reputation. The technician should possess the necessary licenses, a good reputation, and years of expertise. It confirms that they are capable of doing well and that their company is reliable. Additional industry certifications demonstrate their workforce’s expertise.
Get Good Quality Solar Panels And Its Material:
This is a no-brainer. Solar panels are not all created equal. Some solar panels are of higher quality than others, and the same goes for the materials used to create them. If you want your solar panel to be safe from fire and last, get high-quality solar panels and use high-quality materials. Mostly cheap panels may malfunction, resulting in a fire and ultimately more significant expenditures.
Regular System Maintenance:
A well-maintained solar PV system is a safe solar PV system. Just like any other electrical equipment, your solar PV system needs to be regularly checked and maintained by a qualified professional. Solar panel maintenance is important because it helps to ensure that your panels are functioning properly and producing the maximum amount of power possible.
If you are cleaning yourself, ensure you inspect any damage caused by vermin, rats, or other small animals. Check the cables for any gaps that might cause issues later.
Avoid DIY:
We advise against DIY solar installation because of the many dangers and risks. Solar panel installation requires special equipment and safety precautions that most homeowners are unaware of. Furthermore, solar panels are delicate and require careful handling to avoid damage. Finally, the warranty on your solar panels may be voided if they are not installed by a professional.
Even while you could save installation expenses, it might cause additional issues. Systems for solar panels are intricate. Because of this, if you are not a certified electrician or an authority in solar PV installation, you shouldn’t attempt a DIY installation.
So, Are Solar Panels Safe?
Almost always. Solar panel fires are incredibly uncommon, but they are not impossible. Solar panels installed and maintained correctly shouldn’t be more dangerous than other electrical home appliances.
Consult with a qualified solar installer to ensure your system is appropriately sized, installed, and maintained.
Unsure about the Solar Panel That Is Best for you? Do Not Worry!
The Queen Team General Contracting serving Cherry Hill is here to help! Our expert and knowledgeable staff are available to assist you in locating the best solar panel for your requirements. We will choose the solar panel most suited to your house or place of business in terms of size, brand, and kind.