Posted on June 26th, 2025.

Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but it’s just as famous for its intense summer storms. Between June and September, homeowners in Central Florida experience powerful thunderstorms, high winds, heavy rains, and even hurricanes. While solar panels are a smart and sustainable investment, many homeowners wonder: how do these storms affect solar panel systems, and what should I be doing to protect them?

At Solar Soft Cleaning, we help homeowners across Orlando and surrounding counties keep their solar energy systems clean, efficient, and protected year-round. In this guide, we’ll break down the real impact of Florida’s summer storms on your solar panels, how they affect performance, and what you can do to prevent costly damage and loss of energy efficiency.

How Summer Storms Impact Solar Panel Systems

Florida's summer storms often bring wind speeds of 40-60 mph or higher, as well as inches of rain in a short time. These conditions can impact solar panels in several ways:

• Leaves, branches, and debris cover your panels, blocking sunlight.
• Heavy rain splashes dirt and mud onto panel surfaces.
• High winds loosen racking systems or dislodge wiring.
• Hail or falling branches may cause cracks or micro-fractures.

Even if your solar panels are designed to withstand extreme weather, performance can still decline significantly without proper maintenance.

 The Real Cost of Post-Storm Debris and Dirt

Did you know that dirty solar panels can lose 15% to 30% efficiency? After a storm, this number can be even higher due to dirt buildup and water stains. That means your energy production drops, and you’re losing potential savings.

For a typical Orlando home using 8,000 kWh/year, that’s hundreds of dollars in energy savings lost simply due to grime.

Quick Fact:

Florida homeowners could lose up to $400 per year in energy production due to unclean panels.

 Can Solar Panels Withstand Hurricanes?

Yes — most modern solar panels are engineered to withstand winds up to 140 mph or more, making them hurricane-resistant when properly installed. However, while the panels themselves are durable, your system’s performance can still suffer post-storm due to:

• Displaced mounting hardware
• Clogged drainage around the panels
• Hidden electrical damage

This is why inspections and cleaning after major storms are vital.

 How Storms Lead to Energy Efficiency Loss

Here’s how dirty or damaged panels can impact your system:

• Blocked sunlight = less power generation
• Overheated inverters from buildup of debris
• Trapped moisture leading to corrosion
• Efficiency loss of up to 30% or more

Over time, neglecting to clean panels after a storm not only affects your monthly bill but shortens the lifespan of your entire solar system.

 Why You Need Post-Storm Cleaning and Inspection

Every major storm leaves behind residue, even if you don’t see it. A professional cleaning and inspection can:

• Remove debris and stains that block light
• Identify small cracks or damage early
• Check your mounting system and seals
• Ensure your system is producing at full capacity

Book a post-storm cleaning with Solar Soft Cleaning to restore your system’s performance quickly.

Signs of Storm Damage to Watch For

Not sure if your panels were affected? Look for these warning signs:

• Sudden drop in energy output
• Water pooling around the panels
• Dirt or mud streaks visible from the ground
• Debris or leaves stuck between panels
• Disconnected or hanging wires

Solar Panel Protection Tips for Florida Homeowners

• Trim trees around your property before storm season
• Install critter guards to prevent nesting and debris
• Check your inverter performance monthly
• Clean your panels at least every 6 months
• Schedule a professional inspection after any major storm

Why Choose a Local Professional Like Solar Soft Cleaning

We specialize in soft, eco-friendly cleaning that won’t damage your solar panels. Unlike general pressure washing, we use the right tools and techniques designed specifically for solar surfaces.

Benefits of Choosing Us:

• Locally owned and operated in Central Florida
• Fast turnaround after major weather events
• Licensed & Insured: License #20221112316
• 5-star Google reviews and testimonials

🔗 Visit our website
📞 Call us now: (407) 758-4744

9. Book Your Post-Storm Solar Panel Cleaning Today

Don’t wait until your energy bill surprises you. Protect your investment, maximize your savings, and make sure your system is storm-ready with Solar Soft Cleaning.

📅 Schedule your cleaning today or give us a call at (407) 758-4744.

We proudly serve the Orlando metro area including Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties.

Solar Soft Cleaning
Licensed & Insured | License #20221112316
solarsoftwashing.com
📍 Serving Orlando & Central Florida
📞 (407) 758-4744