Damaged Solar Panels Ashgrove, Brisbane: Insurance Help

Dealing with Hail Damage: Expert Solar Support in Ashgrove

Living in South East Queensland means enjoying plenty of sunshine, but it also means bracing for the occasional severe storm. For homeowners, there is nothing quite as stressful as hearing the deafening thud of large hailstones hitting the roof, knowing your expensive solar investment is right in the firing line.

While solar panels are built to be tough, they aren’t invincible. Recently, Fallon Solutions attended a property to assist a local resident with damaged solar panels in Ashgrove. The homeowner was concerned about the state of their system following a heavy hailstorm and needed expert advice to move forward with an insurance claim.

If you suspect your system has taken a hit, it is crucial to understand the risks and the necessary steps to get your power generation back on track.

The Problem: When Hail Meets Solar

In this specific case, the customer contacted us regarding a solar system that we had originally installed back in 2020. It was a robust 6.66kW system utilizing Phono 330w panels—generally known for their durability. However, the sheer force of a recent hailstorm had caused visible cracking to the panels.

The homeowner needed a formal assessment and a quote for repairs to present to their insurance provider.

Signs of a Hail Damaged Solar Panel

Damage isn’t always as obvious as a shattered piles of glass in your gutter. If you are worried about a broken solar panel or general storm damage, look out for these warning signs:

• Visible Cracks or “Shattering”: This looks similar to a cracked car windscreen. The glass may hold its shape, but the spiderweb pattern is a clear sign of structural failure.
• Micro-fractures: These are tiny cracks often invisible to the naked eye from the ground but can cause “hot spots” on the panel, leading to burn marks later on.
• Drop in Energy Production: If your inverter shows a sudden decrease in kilowatt-hours (kWh) immediately after a storm, a panel (or several) may be offline.
• Water Ingress: Once the glass seal is broken, rainwater can seep into the internal electrical components, creating a dangerous situation.

Warning: Never climb onto a wet or slippery roof to inspect damage yourself. Always search for a “solar technician near me” to handle the inspection safely.

The Solution: Comprehensive Solar Assessment

Upon arriving at the Ashgrove residence, our qualified electrician conducted a thorough solar panel check to assess the extent of the damage.

For insurance claims, a visual glance isn’t enough. We performed a detailed inspection of the entire array.

1. Visual Verification: We confirmed that the impact damage on the Phono 330w panels was indeed consistent with hail impact, distinguishing it from thermal stress or other mechanical failures.
2. System Safety Check: We isolated the system to ensure the electrical components were safe. A cracked panel can leak electrical current, potentially energising the metal frames or mounting rails—a serious electrocution hazard.
3. Detailed Reporting: We compiled a comprehensive report detailing the specific specifications of the 6.66kW system and the nature of the failure.

Because the panels were physically cracked, a simple repair (like swapping a fuse) was not an option. In cases of physical glass breakage, the integrity of the panel is compromised. The “solution” here was providing the homeowner with the precise technical documentation and a quote for the necessary replacement works. This document is the “golden ticket” homeowners need to get their insurance claim processed quickly and approved.

The Benefits of a Professional Assessment

Calling in a professional for solar panel repair or assessment immediately after a storm offers several key benefits for the homeowner:

• Expedited Insurance Claims: Insurance companies require detailed, professional reports. Our write-up bridges the gap between the homeowner and the insurer, using the correct technical terminology to justify the claim.
• Electrical Safety: As mentioned, a compromised system is a fire and shock risk. Professional isolation of the system ensures the family is safe while waiting for the repairs to be authorised.
• System Longevity: By identifying exactly which panels are damaged and which are functioning, we ensure that when repairs are made, the system returns to its optimal output without “weak links” dragging down performance.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that a licensed technician has made the site safe allows the homeowner to sleep soundly, even if the repairs are still pending insurance approval.

Why Choose Fallon Solutions?

When it comes to your home’s energy system, you need a team that understands the technology inside and out. In this Ashgrove job, we had the advantage of having installed the system originally, but we bring the same level of care and expertise to every job we attend.

We are fully licensed and experienced in handling all major solar brands. Our team doesn’t just “fix things”; we provide the professional documentation and reliable advice you need to navigate stressful situations like storm damage recovery. We are your local experts, committed to keeping Australian homes powered and safe. Want to learn more about our solar services, visit our solar trade area.

Storm season is a reality of life in Queensland, but it doesn’t have to spell the end for your solar savings. If you have noticed a drop in power or suspect physical damage after a storm, prompt action is essential.

If you are concerned about your system in Ashgrove or the surrounding areas, don’t wait for a disaster. Contact the experts at Fallon Solutions today to book a comprehensive inspection and service. Call us on 1300 054 488 or send us an enquiry here.