Giant Rainfall and Flooding: How to Protect Your Photovoltaics?
Flooding, especially in regions with a high risk of flooding, can pose a serious threat to photovoltaic installations. To ensure the longevity and reliability of your system, it is worth investing in the right protective measures to help minimise the risk of water damage.
The first step to take is to plan the location of the panels accordingly. Photovoltaic installations are most often installed on the roofs of buildings, which provides some barrier against flooding. However, it is important to check that the roof of the building is in a safe zone, free from the risk of flooding. In regions particularly prone to flooding or heavy rainfall, it is worth considering mounting panels on elevated structures that protect the installation from direct contact with water.
An equally important aspect of protecting photovoltaics is the proper protection of the system's electrical components. Distribution boxes, inverters and other electrical equipment should be installed in dry, well-ventilated locations and preferably above the level of potential flooding. You can also invest in waterproof enclosures to further protect equipment from accidental water ingress.
Photovoltaic systems should also be serviced regularly, especially after periods of heavy rainfall or flooding. A professional inspection allows possible damage to be detected, and a quick repair can prevent more serious consequences. It is also a good idea to monitor photovoltaic systems online, which allows an immediate response to irregularities in the operation of the system.
Insuring your photovoltaic installation is another important step in protecting it against flooding. It is worth checking whether your standard insurance policy covers this type of risk and considering taking out additional cover if your installation is in a particularly flood-prone area.
How to deal with a flooded photovoltaic installation?
In the event of flooding of a photovoltaic installation, it is crucial to act quickly and appropriately to minimise the risk of damage to the equipment and to ensure the safety of householders and technicians. Here are step-by-step instructions on what to do in the event of flooding:
- Remain calm and safe
The most important thing is to avoid panic. If there is a risk of flooding, stay away from flooded areas, especially if there may be electrical equipment. Water conducts electricity, posing a shock hazard. - Switch off the electrical installation
If you have access to the main power switch, disconnect the electrical system, including the photovoltaic system. Switch off all fuses to prevent current flow. If water has already reached electrical components, have the system shut down by a professional. - Avoid contact with water
If water has entered the building, avoid touching flooded electrical equipment, including switch boxes, cables, inverters or solar panels. Contact with water that may have come into contact with electricity can be deadly. - Secure the scene
Block access to the flooded area so that members of the public do not come into contact with water that may have come into contact with electricity. Warn family members and neighbours of the possible danger. - Contact a professional
Call a professional service team that specialises in photovoltaic installations as soon as possible. Only qualified technicians should deal with the system after flooding. They can carry out a thorough inspection, assess the damage and safely shut down the installation if this has not already been done. - Do not attempt to repair the installation yourself
Even after the water has subsided, do not attempt to repair a photovoltaic system yourself. These systems are complex and may still be live, posing a risk to health and life. - Document your losses
Take photographs and make notes of the damage caused by the flooding. Such documentation will be useful when reporting the damage to your insurer. - Report the loss to the insurer
If your photovoltaic installation was covered by insurance, report the damage as soon as possible. Provide your insurer with photo documentation and descriptions to help process your claim. - Wait for inspection and repairs
Once the water has receded and the system has been inspected by specialists, the photovoltaic system may need to have some components replaced or be thoroughly repaired. It is important to ensure that all components are fully operational and safe before restarting the system.
Following these steps will allow you to respond effectively to flooding of your PV installation, minimising losses and ensuring safety.
Is the inverter spill-proof?
Photovoltaic inverter (inverter) is not spill-proof and can be severely damaged if exposed to water. In the event of flooding, the inverter may cease to function properly and, even worse, pose a risk of electrocution, as this device manages the flow of electricity throughout the system. Therefore, if the inverter is flooded, proceed with caution to avoid health risks and additional damage.
Here are the steps to take if the inverter is flooded:
- Do not touch the inverter
Above all, do not attempt to touch or manipulate the inverter if it is suspected of being flooded. Water combined with electricity poses a serious risk of electric shock. - Switch off the electrical installation
If you have the option, switch off the power supply to the entire photovoltaic system. It is safest to do this at the main circuit breaker for the whole system to interrupt the flow of power to the inverter. If you cannot access the breaker, call a qualified electrician. - Contact the service
A flooded inverter requires a professional assessment. Contact the service company that services your photovoltaic installation as soon as possible. Only qualified technicians can safely deal with the unit, assess the damage and take corrective action or replace the inverter with a new one. - Do not attempt to repair the inverter yourself
Even when dry, the inverter may be severely damaged and its operation may be unstable. Attempting to repair it yourself can lead to further damage and potentially dangerous situations. In the case of severe flooding, the inverter usually needs to be replaced.
Flooding can be unpredictable, but proper preparation and investment in protection will minimise the risk. By protecting your photovoltaics from the effects of water, you not only ensure that your installation lasts longer, but also avoid costly repairs and power outages.
