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Walking on solar panels is not recommended as it can damage delicate components like photovoltaic cells, tempered glass, and wiring, reducing their effectiveness. While panels can withstand wind forces spread over their surface, a person's weight creates concentrated pressure that harms the cells and can lead to cracks, decreased performance, and voided warranties.
Solar panel manufacturers may not cover damage caused by improper usage under their warranties. Additionally, walking on tilted panels poses safety hazards due to slippery surfaces. If necessary, follow safety precautions for maintenance: consult professionals, distribute your weight evenly across panels, and adhere to safety instructions.
Prevention through regular inspections, proper cleaning, and expert maintenance is the best way to ensure solar panels' longevity and performance without the need to walk on them.
Why you should not walk on your solar panels
We don’t recommend walking on solar panels because it can damage them and make them less efficient. Solar panels have delicate parts like photovoltaic cells, tempered glass, and wiring that can break easily under weight or pressure. For instance, if you step on the tempered glass, it can crack or break, which lowers the solar panel’s efficiency. Also, you can damage the internal wiring, causing electrical problems or even electrical shocks.
Furthermore, any damage to the panels can reduce their ability to produce energy, meaning you won’t get as much power as you should. This can also shorten the lifespan of the panels, leading to additional costs for repairs or replacements.
To access your solar panels for maintenance or cleaning, it’s best to avoid walking on them. Instead, use a soft brush or hire a professional cleaning service to ensure they are cleaned safely. Always prioritise safety to keep your solar panels working efficiently for the long term.
Do not walk on your solar panels
Solar panels cannot be walked on. At the same time, they can handle high wind forces spread over the full dimensions of the solar panels and accounted for during the design process. The weight of a person standing on a solar panel, or even leaning and holding part of his weight on the solar panel, creates a concentrated weight and force that will damage the cells within the panel.
While there will not be visible damage, it will become apparent over time with the ongoing operation of the solar panel. The continued generation of electricity and the cracks which create a gap and point of resistance in the cells will see ongoing heat generated. As a result, the cracks will continue to develop. Over time, the panel’s performance will decrease.
Warranty issues
Manufacturers of solar panels provide warranties that cover production defects, performance issues, and certain types of damage. However, manufacturers typically consider walking on solar panels improper usage, potentially voiding the warranty. Consequently, any damage resulting from walking on the solar panels wouldn’t be covered by the warranty.
Walking on the solar panels can lead to damage that you’ll have to cover out of pocket. Repairing or replacing solar panels can be pricey, so it’s important to be cautious. Make sure to carefully read the warranty terms to know what’s considered acceptable use. This way, you can avoid accidentally voiding your warranty.
To protect your investment and avoid unexpected expenses, it’s best to avoid walking on the solar panels altogether. Instead, use alternative methods for cleaning or maintenance, such as using a soft brush or hiring a professional service. This way, you can maintain the efficiency and longevity of your solar panels without risking damage or voiding the warranty.
Safety hazard
Solar panels are usually tilted to capture as much sunlight as possible. Because of this angle and the smooth surface of the glass, walking on solar panels can be risky. The chances of slipping and falling increase due to these factors. Not only does walking on the solar panels endanger your safety, but it also puts the panels themselves at risk of damage.
The tilt and smooth surface make it easy to lose footing, especially if the panels are wet or dusty. A fall from the height of solar panels can result in injuries. Moreover, the weight and pressure from walking can cause cracks or breaks in the tempered glass, leading to reduced efficiency or even complete failure of the panel.
To avoid these risks, it’s best to stay off the solar panels whenever possible. If you need to clean or maintain them, opt for a soft brush or hire a professional cleaning service to ensure safe cleaning without walking on the solar panels.
Always prioritise safety to protect both yourself and your solar panels.
What if I need to clean my panels?
It is best to take the following safety precautions if you need to access your solar panels for maintenance or cleaning:
- Consult a professional: Speak with a qualified technician or a solar installer if you are unsure of the best way to gain access to your solar panels. They can guarantee the right safety precautions and offer advice tailored to your solar PV system.
- Spread your weight equally: If it is necessary to step on the panels, distribute your weight across several panels or lean on mounting brackets. A single spot should not be subjected to intense pressure.
- Follow safety instructions: Before beginning any maintenance or cleaning tasks, always follow the proper safety precautions, such as shutting off the solar array or disconnecting it from the grid. It is best to get expert advice if you are unsure about working with solar panels.
Remember that prevention is the best way to protect your solar panels. Routine inspections, appropriate cleaning, and expert maintenance will help guarantee your solar system’s longevity and optimum performance without stepping on the panels.
