Do Solar Panels Make Noise?

As solar panels continue to grow in popularity, there's a lot of curiosity and sometimes confusion surrounding these systems. One frequently asked question is whether solar panels produce noise. It's completely understandable to consider this if you're planning to install them on your roof—noise levels can definitely affect your comfort. The short answer to the question 'do solar panels make noise?' is no. In general, solar panels themselves are designed to operate silently, both during the day and at night. They are engineered to be quiet and efficient without producing any significant sounds.

However, while solar panels are typically silent, there are some rare exceptions. For instance, you might occasionally hear a very faint hum from your panels during the daytime when they are actively converting sunlight into electricity. This hum is generally very subtle and would only be noticeable if you're standing quite close to the panels (around 50 feet away). But even then, it's often too soft to be bothersome.

What Causes Noise in Solar Panels?

Despite their reputation for silence, there are a few factors that could lead to noise from your solar panel system:

Inverter Humming

The humming sound you might hear doesn't actually come directly from the solar panels. Instead, it originates from the inverter. An inverter is crucial because it converts the direct current (DC) produced by the panels into alternating current (AC), which powers your home appliances. Not all inverters hum, but those that do usually belong to older models or lower-quality brands. String inverters are particularly known for this, but the noise level rarely exceeds 45 decibels, which is unlikely to disturb you. If the noise is bothering you, consider placing the inverter in an enclosed space to minimize it. Microinverters, on the other hand, tend to be quieter and shouldn't produce any humming sounds. If they do, contact your installer or manufacturer for assistance.

Inverter Fans

Sometimes, inverters are equipped with fans to help dissipate heat, especially if they're exposed to direct sunlight or if your household consumes a lot of electricity. These fans can generate a low-level hum, though it's usually minimal and hard to detect unless you're right next to the inverter. Ideally, inverters should be installed in shaded, cooler areas to reduce the need for fans and prevent unnecessary noise.

Loose Cabling

Your solar panel system includes wiring that connects the panels to the roof and to the inverter. If this wiring isn't properly secured, it can shift in the wind and create a rustling or buzzing sound. While fixing this issue is straightforward (simply securing the cables), it's always best to consult a professional to ensure everything is done correctly. Loose cabling can also pose safety risks, so it's important to address it promptly.

Loose Racking

Another potential cause of noise is loose racking. If the mounting brackets holding your panels in place aren't secured tightly enough, they can rattle or vibrate when the wind blows. This not only creates noise but also increases the risk of damage to the panels. If you suspect this might be happening, ask your installer to come back and inspect the system to ensure everything is firmly fastened. Properly securing the racking will eliminate any rattling sounds.

Wind Noise

Even though solar panels are designed to be quiet, you might still notice some noise, especially at night when the environment is quieter. This sound is often caused by wind passing through gaps created by the installation of the panels. While it might seem like something is moving around, it's usually just the wind finding its way through spaces that didn't exist before. As long as your panels are securely mounted, wind noise shouldn't be a major concern.

Identifying Solar Panel Noise

If you're unsure whether your solar panel system is making noise, the easiest way to check is at night. During nighttime, your inverter remains active but only collects data rather than actively converting energy. This allows you to rule out the inverter as the source of the noise and focus on the panels themselves. At this point, the noise might stem from loose cabling, loose racking, or wind-related issues, as discussed earlier.

In summary, aside from a slight hum from the inverter or wind noise, solar panels should function nearly silently. However, if you do notice any unusual sounds unrelated to the inverter or wind, it's advisable to have your system inspected to avoid potential problems down the line. If you're ready to embark on your solar journey, doing so with experienced professionals is key. Get in touch with us today to learn more.