As the solar industry expands, so do questions regarding the safety of these panels, especially in residential homes. No other energy source on Earth is as plentiful as solar energy, fueling the desire to learn more about this sought-after product.
This fuels the drive to learn as much about this renewable energy source as possible, with one of the most popular questions being, “Do solar panels have health risks?” With millions of solar panels installed annually, homeowners need to understand the facts about solar panels, and not the myths.
Are you looking to understand more about the safety and efficacy of green energy, low-maintenance solar panels? Read on to learn about solar energy safety for you and your family.
What Are the Solar Panel Health Concerns?
Since this type of renewable energy became available, skeptics have questioned its safety, primarily focusing on three areas. These areas of concern include:
- Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and radiation from solar panels
- Possible exposure to toxic chemicals in the materials used to create solar panels
- Thermal impact of solar panels, both on residential homes and neighborhoods
Solar panels are made from numerous materials, including:
- Silicon
- Aluminum
- Metals, including lead and cadmium
The growing concern is in using cadmium and lead, two known carcinogens.
However, these materials aren’t exposed, as some solar power advantages include the encapsulation of toxic materials between other layers of material. When solar panels are used properly, the risk of exposure to these materials is minimized. Even when these metals are used in large quantities, the odds of a human being exposed to them are rare.
What Increases the Health Risks of Solar Panels?
As solar panels age, degrade, or break, the risk of chemical exposure increases. This is why it’s paramount for homeowners to only work with trusted installers. At the first sign of wear and tear, homeowners should contact their preferred solar installer to replace worn-out panels with brand-new ones, reducing the risk of chemical exposure.
To put homeowner’s minds at ease when focusing on the safety of solar technology, when panels are properly installed and maintained, the risk of chemical exposure is low. Gently remove dirt, debris, and leaves, and check that critters aren’t nesting beneath your panels. You can also call your solar installer for an inspection, ensuring everything is in optimal shape.
When working with trusted professionals for the installation, maintenance, and disposal of solar panels, further chemical exposure can be reduced. Solar installers understand how to carefully handle these materials, preventing them from breaking during transport and properly disposing of them after use.
Are Solar Panels Fire Hazards?
Another health risk some homeowners worry about is whether solar panels are fire hazards, putting them and their family members in danger. The Internet is rife with information about solar panels and rooftop fires, but some of these details are less accurate than others. Instead, homeowners should always defer to more impartial websites, such as Energy.gov, for example.
According to Energy.gov, a solar photovoltaics (PV) system should always be installed by a reputable vendor. In this instance, these systems are not inclined to pose a large risk to a home. Energy.gov also explains that a spontaneous fire is extremely rare.
The main causes of solar panel fires are:
- Component defects
- Flaws in the design
- Improper installation
There are safety standards in place to address fire-related concerns that pose a significant health risk to homeowners, since solar panels rely on electrical systems often located near flammable items. By working with a licensed, insured, and reputable solar installation company, you’re working to protect your family from potential risks associated with solar panels.
In some instances, a fire may occur right after the system was installed when there is a full week of sun. Should the system have any faults, this could potentially trigger a fire. When you work with an installer who’s well-versed in solar panels and properly checks the system before operation, it can reduce the incidence of fires causing health-related safety hazards.
Some solar installers increase the distance between the solar modules themselves and a roof, working to reduce the incidence of fire spreading.
Understanding Electromagnetic Radiaito (EMFs)
Another popular concern surrounding solar panels is exposure to electromagnetic radiation, or EMFs. The concern is that solar panels can, in turn, cause cancer.
One of the most pressing reasons for this concern is children, as they’re the most susceptible to EMFs, and it’s always wise for parents to err on the side of caution.
Solar panels do produce EMFs. However, they produce levels considered low and not suspected to be harmful to humans. This level of EMF radiation is thought to be on par with microwave ovens and televisions, if not lower.
It’s important to understand the type of radiation that solar panels emit. It’s called non-ionizing radiation.
In general, the EMFs from solar panels come from the semiconductor materials. This level of radiation is thought to be weak. When solar panels are installed away from humans, it’s more likely that any EMFs will dissolve in the atmosphere.
Since solar panels usually have a glass, silicone, and aluminum encasement, dangerous internal materials are usually encapsulated and kept largely away from humans.
Do Solar Panels Have Health Risks?
After reading this article, you have more answers to the popular question, “Do solar panels have health risks?” Although nothing is without risk, solar panels have safety measures in place to reduce the incidence of chemical exposure. Additionally, when professionally installed and maintained by a trusted solar panel company, the risk of fire is reduced.
Solar panels have ample pros, making them ideal for households looking to reduce energy consumption and keep utility bills low. If you’re ready to make the switch to renewable energy, Sun Club USA has everything you need to embark on your solar power journey. From expert technicians to competitive pricing, we’re your premiere Arizona solar company.
Get a free quote today or call one of our dedicated staff members at (520) 477-9822 to learn more about what we have to offer.
