Can Storms Damage Solar Panels? What Arizona Homeowners Need to Know
Storms and Solar Panels: What You Should Know
Arizona homeowners enjoy more sunny days than most states — but when monsoon season hits, strong winds, heavy rain, and hail can damage solar panels.
Modern solar panels are designed to withstand extreme weather, but storm damage can still happen — especially when debris, hail, or wind-driven impact affects your roof or mounting system. Knowing how to identify storm damage early can save you costly repairs and lost energy production.
At JIT Solar, we specialize in solar panel removal, repair, and reinstallation after storms across Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Tucson. Here’s what to know if your system has been through severe weather.
Types of Storm Damage to Solar Panels
Different weather events can cause different types of damage.
1. Hail Damage
Even though panels are tested for hail up to one inch at 50 mph, larger hailstones can cause cracks, chipped glass, or subtle microfractures that reduce efficiency over time.
2. Wind Damage
High winds can loosen mounting brackets, damage roof flashing, or shift panels out of alignment — leading to leaks or unsafe wiring exposure.
3. Flying Debris
Branches, gravel, and other debris can strike panels during a storm, causing dents or cracks on the glass surface.
4. Water Infiltration
Heavy rain and poor sealing can cause water to enter junction boxes or connectors, creating electrical shorts or corrosion.
How to Tell If Your Solar Panels Are Storm-Damaged
After a storm, you might not see visible damage — but your system could still be compromised. Look for these signs:
- ⚠️ Drop in energy production (visible in your monitoring app)
- ⚠️ Cracks or discoloration on panel glass
- ⚠️ Loose, lifted, or misaligned panels
- ⚠️ Water pooling on the roof or near mounts
- ⚠️ Electrical faults or inverter alerts
If you notice any of these, schedule a professional inspection immediately.
What To Do After a Storm
- Inspect Safely – Check from the ground or with a drone; avoid climbing on the roof.
- Document Damage – Take photos or videos for your insurance claim.
- Contact a Solar Professional – JIT Solar can inspect, remove, and reinstall panels safely.
- File an Insurance Claim (If Needed) – Most homeowners’ policies cover solar panel storm damage.
How JIT Solar Protects & Repairs Your System
At JIT Solar, we provide comprehensive storm damage services for homeowners across Arizona:
- Storm Damage Inspections – Identify visible and hidden damage.
- Panel Removal & Reinstallation – Safe, efficient service that protects your roof and equipment.
- Hail & Wind Damage Repair – Replacement of cracked panels, wiring, and mounts.
- Workmanship Guarantee – Every repair is backed by our 100% workmanship warranty for lasting performance.
We work directly with your insurance provider to simplify the claims process and restore your system to full output quickly.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
While you can’t control Arizona weather, you can protect your investment by:
- Scheduling annual solar inspections
- Trimming nearby trees and branches
- Ensuring proper roof sealing and drainage
- Installing panels at optimal tilt angles to reduce impact force
Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your solar system and minimize costly storm repairs.
Stay Protected with Arizona’s Solar Storm Experts
When the next storm hits, don’t wait to find out if your panels were damaged. Let JIT Solar inspect, repair, or reinstall your system — backed by our local expertise, workmanship guarantee, and responsive service.
Contact JIT Solar today to schedule a free consultation.
Proudly serving homeowners in Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and across the Arizona Valley.