You’ve probably heard that modern solar panels are tough as nails. And for the most part, that’s true — but even the strongest panels can still cop a beating in the right storm.
The quick answer? Yes, a hailstorm can damage solar panels. The good news is, it doesn’t happen often because most panels sold in Australia are built to handle a fair bit of punishment.
Still, we all know how wild Aussie weather can get. One freak storm, some cricket-ball-sized hail, and you could be looking at cracked glass or worse.
That’s why it pays to know what to expect when the clouds roll in. You’ve spent good money on your solar system, so the last thing you want is an unwelcome surprise when the skies clear.
Here’s everything you need to know about how hail affects solar panels, what signs of damage to look out for, how to keep your panels safe, and what steps to take if they do get smashed up.
How a Hailstorm Impacts Solar Panels
When a hailstorm rolls through, your solar panels are right there on the roof, taking the full brunt of whatever comes flying down. Hailstones can hit hard — even a small stone travelling at high speed packs a punch.
Bigger hailstones can slam into a panel with the force to crack glass, damage the internal solar cells, or even shatter weaker panels entirely.
That said, most modern solar panels are built to stand up to Mother Nature. Panels sold in Australia have to pass international standards, which include tests with simulated hailstones hurled at high speeds.
This is where tempered glass comes in. Every panel you see on a roof is covered with a layer of thick, toughened glass designed to resist impacts. Tempered glass doesn’t just stop stones from smashing through — it also spreads the force out, so small cracks are less likely to form.
Still, hailstorms in Australia can be wild. In some parts of Queensland and New South Wales, storms can drop hailstones the size of golf balls, or even bigger.
Panels that can handle normal 25mm stones might struggle against 50mm monsters. That’s why solar owners in storm-prone areas need to be a bit more cautious, and think about positioning, quality, and protection.
So while your panels aren’t invincible, they’re not fragile either. Knowing how much punishment they can actually take — and when they might need a closer look — helps you protect your investment and keep your solar system running strong.
Are Solar Panels in Australia Hail Resistant?
Most solar panels installed in Australia today are designed to handle harsh weather, including hail. Manufacturers have to meet strict international standards that test how much impact a panel can take.
The most common benchmark is called IEC 61215, which is recognised worldwide and required for Clean Energy Council approval here in Australia.
This standard ensures that panels can withstand hailstones at least 25mm wide travelling at up to 23 metres per second — a solid test for typical Aussie storms.
When testing solar panels for hail resistance, manufacturers simulate hailstorms in a controlled lab. This involves:
- Firing solid ice balls, about the size of a marble (25mm), at different parts of the panel.
- Using high speeds to mimic the force of falling hail.
- Checking for cracks, microfractures, or internal cell damage after impact.
- Repeating the test multiple times to check durability under repeated strikes.
Panels that pass these tests are certified as hail resistant and are perfectly suitable for most Australian roofs.
Of course, some parts of Australia, like parts of Queensland or northern NSW, can see hailstones much bigger than 25mm.
In those extreme cases, even certified panels can get damaged, so homeowners in those regions should consider premium panels or additional protection.
Common Types of Hail Damage on Solar Panels
Even though solar panels are tough, a big enough hailstorm can still leave them worse for wear.
Knowing the most common types of damage helps you spot problems early and decide what to do next.
Cracks and Microfractures
One of the most common problems after a hailstorm is small cracks, sometimes called microfractures. These tiny splits often form in the glass or even inside the solar cells.
You might not see them straight away, but over time they can reduce the panel’s efficiency and output.
Microfractures are sneaky because they don’t always show up without a closer inspection or a performance check.
Broken Glass
This is the easiest type of damage to spot. A direct hit from a big hailstone can completely crack or shatter the tempered glass on top of your panel.
Once the glass is broken, the panel is exposed to water and debris, which can quickly ruin the internal components.
Internal Cell Damage
Even if the glass looks fine, the cells underneath can still be damaged. Hail can cause internal stress that affects how the cells generate electricity.
This kind of damage often shows up as lower energy output or hot spots on a thermal scan.
Keeping an eye out for all three of these helps you catch damage early and avoid long-term performance losses.
How to Inspect Solar Panels After a Hailstorm
Once the storm has passed, it’s a smart move to check your solar panels for any damage. Even if everything looks okay from the ground, hail can leave hidden issues that hurt your system’s performance over time.
Visual Checks: What to Look For
Start with a simple look from the ground if it’s safe. You’re checking for:
- Obvious cracks or shattered glass.
- Loose or shifted panels.
- Water pooling or debris stuck on the surface.
- Discoloured spots that could mean cell damage.
If you feel confident getting closer, use a ladder carefully to inspect at eye level — but don’t walk on the panels.
Professional Inspection vs DIY
If you spot anything unusual or you’re unsure, it’s worth calling a professional. They have the right tools to check for internal cracks and electrical issues that you can’t see. A pro inspection is especially recommended in areas with big hail or if your panels are more than a few years old.
Using Monitoring Systems to Detect Output Drops
If you have a solar monitoring system, check your energy output. Sudden drops in performance after a storm are a telltale sign of hidden damage, even if the panels look fine. Monitoring systems make it easier to catch problems early and file an insurance claim if needed.
Does Home Insurance Cover Hail Damage to Solar Panels in Australia?
Solar panels are usually covered under your home and contents insurance as part of your building.
If a hailstorm smashes your panels, most insurers in Australia will pay for repairs or replacement, minus your excess.
But policies can differ a lot between companies, so it’s worth checking the fine print to know exactly what’s included.
When you review your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), look for:
- Confirmation that solar panels are part of your building cover
- Any exclusions for storm or hail damage
- Whether you’re covered for full replacement or just repairs
If you need to file a claim after a storm, here’s what to do:
- Take clear photos of all visible damage
- Keep records of your system’s output before and after the storm
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible to lodge the claim
Knowing what your policy actually covers will save you headaches and help you get back to full power faster.
Tips to Protect Solar Panels From Hailstorms
You can’t stop storms from rolling in, and you don’t want to cover your panels every time the sky looks grey, you’d lose too much solar power that way. Instead, focus on smart, realistic steps that give your panels the best chance to survive Australia’s wild weather.
First, invest in high-quality panels from a reputable brand. Not all solar panels are made equal. Cheaper, low-grade panels are more likely to crack or shatter under heavy hail.
Look for panels certified to IEC 61215 or similar standards — this means they’ve been tested to handle decent-sized hail at high speeds.
Some homeowners install protective screens or covers, but this isn’t for everyone. Fixed mesh screens can help in hail-prone areas without blocking too much sunlight.
Removable covers are less practical — you’d need to rush up and fit them before a storm, which isn’t realistic or safe. If you go this route, choose products designed for solar that won’t scratch or overheat your panels.
Finally, think about angle and placement. Panels tilted at a steeper angle are better at deflecting hail than flat-mounted ones, since stones glance off instead of hitting square-on.
If you’re installing a new system, talk to your installer about the best orientation to balance energy production with hail resistance, especially if you live in Queensland or other high-risk regions.
These small choices upfront can make a big difference when the next storm hits — without hurting your day-to-day solar output.
What To Do If Your Solar Panels Are Damaged by Hail
If a hailstorm leaves your solar panels looking worse for wear, don’t panic — but don’t ignore it either. Quick action can save you money and prevent more damage down the track.
Start with some immediate steps. Turn off your solar system at the inverter and isolate it safely. This protects you and prevents electrical issues while you check for damage.
If it’s safe, take a look from the ground and note anything obvious — shattered glass, cracked panels, or water pooling. Don’t climb on the roof if it’s slippery or still raining.
Next, document the damage. Take clear, high-resolution photos of every panel that looks damaged. Snap wide shots of the whole system and close-ups of each crack or break. If you have a solar monitoring app or inverter display, record your system’s performance before and after the storm to show any output loss.
Finally, contact your installer and insurer as soon as possible. Your installer can confirm how bad the damage really is and whether repairs are possible.
Your insurer will let you know what’s covered and how to lodge a claim. The sooner you get the ball rolling, the sooner you can get back to full power.
Cost of Repairing or Replacing Hail-Damaged Solar Panels
Hail damage can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands, depending on how bad the storm was and how many panels were hit. Below is a guide to average costs you can expect in Australia:
| Service | Average Cost (AUD) |
| Repairing minor cracks/microfractures (per panel) | $150–$300 |
| Replacing a single panel | $250–$600 |
| Full system replacement (6.6kW, 16–20 panels) | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Professional inspection & report | $150–$300 |
For small cracks or damage to just one or two panels, repairing or replacing those individual panels is usually more economical.
But if a big storm damages a large part of your system or it’s already quite old, replacing the entire system could make more sense — especially if it’s out of warranty or running inefficiently.
Most high-quality solar panels sold in Australia come with a warranty of 10–25 years. However, warranties often don’t cover “acts of God” like hail, unless the damage is due to a manufacturing defect. That’s why checking your home insurance policy is so important — insurance usually steps in where the warranty doesn’t.
The best way to save money in the long run is investing in durable, certified panels upfront and making sure your insurance is up to scratch.
Key Takeaway
Let’s be honest — Aussie hailstorms can be brutal, and you can’t always predict when one’s going to hit.
Solar panels are tough, but staying one step ahead is just smart. That means knowing your system, keeping an eye on your insurance, and giving your panels a quick check after bad weather.
If you want advice, help with maintenance, or you’re thinking about upgrading to a system that’s better suited to your local conditions, we’re here to help.
Have a chat with the team at Off Grid WA and we’ll make sure you’re ready for whatever the skies throw your way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can solar panels really survive a hailstorm?
Yes, most solar panels installed in Australia are designed and tested to survive an average hailstorm. Panels use toughened glass and are certified to handle hailstones up to about 25mm in diameter hitting at high speed.
What size hail can break solar panels?
Panels can usually handle small to medium hail. But stones larger than 25–50mm, especially if they’re sharp or falling fast, can crack the glass or damage the cells underneath.
How do I know if my solar panels have internal damage?
Even if the glass looks fine, the cells can still be damaged. Watch for lower energy output on your monitoring system. If you suspect damage, book a professional inspection to check for microcracks or hidden faults.
Should I turn off my system during a hailstorm?
Yes, it’s a good safety measure. Switch it off at the inverter to avoid electrical issues or short circuits if water gets in through cracks.
Are premium solar panels more resistant to hail?
Yes, higher quality panels are built to stricter standards, with stronger tempered glass and more durable cells that can handle larger hailstones better than budget models.
Does warranty cover hail damage?
Generally, no. Hail is considered a natural disaster and is usually excluded. You’ll need to claim through your home insurance.
Is hail damage more common in Queensland or Victoria?
Hail damage is much more common in Queensland, especially in areas like Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast where storms can produce giant hailstones regularly.