Do Solar Panels Make Noise?

As solar panels continue to grow in popularity, many people have questions about their functionality and potential drawbacks. One common query is whether solar panels produce any noise. Since installing them on your roof is often a significant decision, it's understandable to want to know more about this aspect. The straightforward answer is that solar panels themselves generally do not make noise. They're specifically designed to operate quietly, both during the day and at night. Even models with moving parts are engineered to remain virtually silent while functioning.

However, there are rare instances where you might detect a faint hum emanating from the panels during daylight hours when they're exposed to sunlight. This hum is typically very subtle and would only be noticeable if you were standing relatively close—around 50 feet or so—from the panels. For the most part, though, you shouldn't expect to hear anything unusual from your solar setup.

What Causes Noise From Solar Panels?

While solar panels themselves are designed to be silent, certain components within the system can occasionally contribute to low-level sounds:

Inverter Humming

It's important to note that the humming sound often associated with solar panels doesn't actually originate from the panels themselves but rather from the inverter. The inverter plays a crucial role in converting the direct current (DC) produced by the panels into alternating current (AC), which powers your home appliances. Not all inverters hum; the likelihood depends largely on the quality and type of inverter used. String inverters, for example, tend to be more prone to producing such noises. Nevertheless, the volume rarely exceeds 45 decibels, meaning it shouldn't be intrusive. To minimize this noise, consider placing the inverter in an enclosed space. Microinverters, on the other hand, usually don't produce any humming sounds. If you encounter this issue with microinverters, contacting your installer or manufacturer is advisable.

Inverter Fans

In some cases, especially if the inverter is exposed to direct sunlight or if your household consumes a lot of electricity, the device might activate its cooling fan. While this fan could generate a slight amount of noise, it should be minimal and barely perceptible. Ideally, the inverter should be positioned in a shaded area to optimize performance and reduce the chances of needing the fan.

Loose Cabling

The wiring connecting the panels to the roof could potentially cause noise if not properly secured. When these cables aren't fastened correctly, they can shift in the breeze, creating an audible disturbance. While correcting this issue is straightforward, it's always best to consult a professional if you suspect this is the source of the problem.

Loose Racking

Another potential source of noise involves loose racking. Improper installation or natural wear over time can lead to rattling sounds as the panels move around in response to wind gusts. Should you suspect this condition, requesting your installer to revisit the site and secure everything properly is recommended. Properly securing the panels should eliminate the rattling noise effectively.

Wind Noise

Even with well-installed solar panels, you might still hear occasional noises, particularly during quiet nights. These sounds are likely caused by the wind passing through gaps created by the installation. Although it might initially seem alarming, it's usually just the wind finding its way through spaces that didn't exist prior to installation. Provided the panels are firmly affixed, this shouldn't pose a concern.

Identifying Solar Panel Noise

If you're uncertain whether your solar panel system is making noise, checking at night is the simplest method. At night, the inverter remains active but only gathers data without actively working. This allows you to rule out the inverter as the source of the sound and focus on identifying whether the noise stems from the panels themselves. Possible causes include loose cabling, loose racking, or wind-related effects, as discussed earlier.

To summarize, aside from a negligible humming sound possibly originating from the inverter or wind noise, your solar panels should function almost silently. However, if you notice any additional sounds unrelated to the inverter or wind, it's prudent to have your system inspected to prevent future complications. Ready to embark on your solar journey? Let our team of experts guide you every step of the way. Contact us today!