Living in South Florida means living with the reality of hurricane season. One of the most common questions we get is: “Will my solar panels fly off my roof during a storm?” The short answer is: No, not if they are installed correctly.
Built for High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ)
Florida has some of the strictest building codes in the world. Solar installations in Miami-Dade and Broward counties must meet High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) standards.
- Wind Rating: Our panels and racking systems are rated to withstand winds upwards of 160+ mph.
- Structural Integrity: Panels protect the portion of the roof they cover, often acting as a shield against flying debris.
The Racking System is Key
The strength of a solar system isn’t just in the glass; it’s in the mounting. We use marine-grade aluminum racking systems bolted directly into your roof’s trusses with watertight flashing. This ensures the system becomes a structural part of your home.
Do Solar Panels Work When the Grid Goes Down?
This is a critical distinction. Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage to protect utility workers fixing the lines. To have power during a hurricane blackout, you need a Battery Backup. By pairing your solar panels with a battery system (like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ), you can keep your lights, AC, and fridge running even when the rest of the neighborhood is dark.
Post-Storm Inspections
After a major storm, it is recommended to have your system inspected. However, solar panels are incredibly durable and rarely suffer damage from wind alone.
Prepare your home for the next season. Learn more about our Battery Backup solutions and secure your energy independence.
