Top Dangerous Things to Know About Solar Systems and How to Avoid Them

Many South Africans have embraced solar technology for relief from load-shedding and the massive savings from generating your own clean, free energy, Considering this option, do come with some dangers associated with installing solar systems in homes.

However, understanding these potential risks will allow you to plan actionable precautions. This includes both installers and homeowners.

Here’s a breakdown of the top dangers associated with solar systems and how to avoid them:

1. Electrical Hazards

One of the most apparent risks with solar systems is the potential for electrical shock or electrocution. After all, these systems are designed to generate electricity.

Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, which can reach high voltages, particularly in large systems. Improper handling of electrical components, including DC and alternating current (AC), can cause severe injury or even death.

How to Avoid Electrical Hazards

You should always hire licensed professionals to install your solar system. You can always ask your installer if they are a part of the Electrical Contractor’s Association of South Africa (ECASA) group.

Also, ensure that your system is properly grounded. There are four methods of grounding, which include:

  • Chassis Grounding
  • Electrical Grounding
  • Earth Grounding
  • And Isolated Grounding.

When installing your system, ask for a DC disconnect switch to shut off power before maintenance or to shut down the electrical feed from your solar panels.

Also, when working with electrical components, always wear protective equipment, such as rubber gloves and insulated tools.

2. Fire Risk

When installations are done poorly, the system is bound to have faulty wiring.

Faulty wiring can often lead to short circuits, which may cause fires.

A short circuit occurs when an overload of current travels through a section, creating heat, which can cause a fire.

Another fire risk is the solar panels themselves. These panels generate a lot of heat, and poor ventilation or a pile of flammable materials around the panels can increase the fire risk.

How to Avoid Having Fire Risks Around Your System

The first step is always to hire a qualified electrician with experience in solar installations. They can advise you on how to minimize fire risks throughout your system.

Another step you, as an owner, can take is to conduct regular inspections of the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage.

Always select fire-resistant materials and ensure proper ventilation around the panels when possible.

The last step to lessen your solar system’s fire risks is installing smoke detectors near the solar system installation.

3. Arc Faults

An arc fault is a high-power electricity discharge between conductors that can create extreme heat and lead to fires. Think of it as a miniature lightning strike.

Arc faults occur when the wiring or connectors break. Also, an arc fault can occur if the wiring has degraded, so routine maintenance is crucial.

How to Avoid an Arc Fault

When installing your solar system, include an arc fault protection device. This device detects and shuts down the system if an arc fault occurs.

As we mentioned, schedule an annual inspection to check for wear and tear on cables, connectors, and inverters.

The final precaution you can take is to ensure your inverter is UL 1699B compliant, which ensures it can detect arc faults early.

4. Roof Damage

It’s essential to check if your roof can handle the additional weight of a solar installation and that the installation process has not damaged it.

After all, when a solar system is installed on your roof, it must take the weight of solar panels and mounting racks. When the qualified technician bolts on all these elements, they must use the proper sealing caulk to prevent leaks, which, over time, can cause extensive structural damage or even collapse.

How to Avoid Roof Damage

Before allowing the solar installers on the roof, ensure you get the all-clear from a structural engineer that the roof can handle the additional weight.

5. Inverter and Battery Malfunctions

Your solar system will need an inverter to convert DC electricity from the panels into usable AC. Inverters are a vital component of solar systems.

However, inverters can overheat or fail if they are not correctly installed, have enough ventilation, and are not regularly maintained.

Also, if your solar system’s battery is not correctly installed or maintained, it can overheat and, in the worst outcome, burst into flames.

How to Avoid Inverter and Battery Failures

When selecting where to place your inverter, ensure it is in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry area to avoid overheating. The same is true for your solar system’s batteries.

Most modern inverters allow the user to monitor their performance. If there are any red flags, call an expert for assistance.

Prevention Is Key to Solar Safety

While solar power offers many South Africans many benefits, such as reducing running energy costs and carbon footprint, it comes with some risks.

However, knowing these hazards and planning to prevent them is your best tool to avoid solar problems.

By taking safety precautions such as:

  • Hiring certified professionals
  • Maintaining your system regularly,
  • And installing proper protective devices

You and your family can enjoy the rewards of solar energy without the dangers. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us today!