Solar Panels and Hurricanes: A Complete Guide to Storm Preparedness
Get StartedLiving on the Gulf Coast means preparing for hurricane season each year. From stockpiling supplies to securing homes and businesses, residents and owners understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with severe weather. Power outages often compound these challenges, leaving families and businesses without essential electricity for days. Solar Alternatives helps homeowners across the Gulf Coast prepare for these difficult times with professional solar installations engineered to withstand extreme conditions.
Hurricane preparation will help protect valuable solar investments and maintain reliable power through storm season. These practical steps and safety measures apply to both homes and businesses, ensuring solar systems are ready when severe weather arrives.
A common concern among homeowners considering solar is storm durability. Fortunately, modern residential solar panels are specifically engineered to withstand hurricane force winds and severe storm conditions. Premium solar panels meet strict building codes for hurricane-prone regions–across the Gulf Coast states, installations must meet rigorous wind resistance requirements. For example, in Florida, installations must withstand winds up to 160 MPH, while Houston requires 110 MPH wind resistance. The International Building Code ensures proper mounting and wind load calculations for every installation.
Solar Alternatives designs each solar power system to exceed these requirements while maximizing energy production. Solar panels remain secure even during challenging weather conditions with professional installation techniques and premium materials.
Taking steps to prepare solar panels before hurricane season starts helps ensure reliable power when it matters most. A thorough approach to storm preparation protects each solar investment and provides peace of mind during extreme weather.
In addition to checking shutters and trimming trees before storm season, homeowners should also schedule an inspection for their solar systems. Solar Alternatives conducts thorough system evaluations, examining mounting security, electrical connections, and overall performance. This proactive approach helps identify and address potential issues before storms arrive.
Storm preparation extends beyond the solar installation itself. Simple steps like trimming trees near panels and securing outdoor furniture help protect both the solar system and the home. Removing and securing potential hazards and projectiles will create a safer environment during high winds.
While panels can physically withstand storms, grid outages pose a separate challenge. Adding battery storage will allow homes to stay powered even when the grid fails. Unlike gas generators, which require constant refueling and create dangerous fumes, solar batteries work automatically and safely. During outages, these systems seamlessly transition to backup power, maintaining essential electricity for families.
Storm damage brings enough stress without insurance complications. Most homeowners insurance policies cover solar installations, but proper documentation is essential. Before hurricane season, photograph the system, review warranty coverage, and understand claim procedures. Having these records readily available brings peace of mind when needed most.
Commercial solar installations face some unique challenges during hurricane season. Business owners and facility managers should implement specific protocols to protect their solar investments and maintain critical operations. Creating clear emergency plans will help businesses maintain essential operations during severe weather and get up and running as soon as possible. Professional system inspections will help verify electrical connections, mounting security, and structural integrity before storms arrive. Facility managers should document emergency procedures and establish response protocols to maintain business operations during severe weather.
Identifying critical power needs will help businesses prepare for extended outages. Professional maintenance and system testing throughout hurricane season protect commercial solar investments and help maintain reliable power when severe weather arrives.
Get more tips from the Solar Alternatives experts on how to prepare for hurricane season.
The days after a hurricane can be stressful and uncertain. Following proper safety steps helps protect everyone while getting solar systems back up and running. Here’s what to know after the storm passes.
After a hurricane or extreme weather conditions, resist the urge to inspect solar panels personally. Stay clear of potentially damaged electrical equipment and watch for hazards like downed power lines. Clear debris and look for visible damage, including broken panels or loose connections, but leave close inspection to professionals.
Solar Alternatives technicians perform comprehensive post-storm inspections, checking for water leaks, ensuring panels are properly secured, and verifying all electrical components are working correctly. This detailed assessment identifies any storm-related issues that need attention, ensuring the system returns to safe, reliable operation.
If storm damage does occur, qualified technicians will help get the system running safely and efficiently as quickly as possible. Solar Alternatives experts are ready to assess and restore storm-damaged systems back to peak operation. Remember to document any damage with photos and keep records handy for warranty or insurance needs.
Engineered for Storm SeasonSolar panels are surprisingly durable–engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds and severe weather conditions. When paired with a battery system, these installations provide a complete independent energy solution for homes and businesses. A solar and battery system will maintain essential power during extended outages, eliminating the need for fuel supplies and operating safely without harmful emissions. While cities wait for utility companies to restore grid power, homes and businesses with solar and battery systems can maintain essential electricity—keeping food fresh, devices charged, and families comfortable.
The reality of hurricane season brings enough challenges without worrying about power reliability. Professional installation, regular maintenance, and proper storm preparation ensure homes and businesses stay powered through whatever weather arrives. Solar Alternatives serves communities across Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Florida, Alabama, and Arkansas with hurricane-ready solar solutions. Contact the experts to explore hurricane-ready solar solutions and learn how a complete solar and battery system can protect your home through storm season.
