Here we go: Another storm in the Northwest.
Solar is made of resilient parts. But Mother Nature can be stronger. Here’s what you need to know—whether you have solar + battery backup, solar only, or you’re dealing with post-storm damage.
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For Customers with Battery Storage Systems
Your battery system is designed to keep you powered during an outage—but only if it’s prepped in time. Take these important steps now:
✅ Battery Preparation Checklist
- Check your battery settings. If your system is set to maximize self-consumption, adjust it to prioritize backup reserve instead.
- Charge your battery to 100% while the grid is still active.
- Manage your energy loads. Avoid running high-power appliances like dryers or HVAC during an outage. Systems without load management can drain in under two hours.
- Confirm your internet equipment is plugged into a backed-up circuit to maintain monitoring and remote support.
✅ System-Specific Instructions
- LG RESU Chem with SolarEdge: Log into the SolarEdge monitoring portal to adjust backup reserve settings and confirm state of charge.
- Tesla Powerwall 2 & 3: Use the Tesla app to increase your backup reserve and ensure the battery is fully charged.
- FranklinWH aPower 2: Use the FranklinWH app to confirm settings, charge status, and emergency readiness.
For Solar-Only Customers (No Battery)
While your solar array quietly does its job day in and day out, it’s good to remember that most grid-tied solar systems are designed to shut off during a power outage. That’s a built-in safety feature to protect utility crews while they’re working to restore power. Once the grid is back up, your system will automatically restart—you won’t need to lift a finger.
✅ In the meantime, we always recommend the basics:
- Charge your essential devices and battery banks.
- Know where your flashlights and backup lighting are—and check those batteries!
- If you rely on a well pump, electric heat, or medical equipment, think through what’s essential and how you’ll keep it running.
- Keep an eye on nearby trees and branches that could pose a risk to your roof or solar array during high winds.
If you’re interested in adding battery storage, we offer solutions that can power key circuits and—in some cases—even keep your solar panels producing during a grid outage. We’re happy to walk you through what that would look like for your setup.
And if your system ever takes a hit—hail, wind, falling trees, or otherwise—our dedicated Service Team can help. We coordinate inspections, insurance documentation, and repairs, whether or not we were your original installer.
Curious About Batteries?
Our team can answer your questions and determine how battery backup could work for you.
After the Storm: If You’ve Experienced Damage
Severe weather can sometimes leave a mark—whether it’s downed branches, hail damage, or system malfunctions after an outage. If your solar or battery system has been impacted by the storm, we’re here to help you navigate next steps.
We understand how stressful it can be to deal with unexpected damage, especially when power or internet may be down. Our dedicated Service Team is trained to support you through the entire process—from troubleshooting and diagnostics to working with your insurance company and coordinating repairs.
✅ What To Do When You Have Damage To Your System
Call your insurance company.
Call us.
✅ What To Expect From A&R Solar
- Service response times may be delayed due to increased call volume and weather-related access issues. We appreciate your patience—our team is doing everything we can to help customers as quickly and safely as possible.
- We typically cannot restore backup functionality (like battery power) while a utility grid outage is still active. However, we can begin assessment and prep work for when grid service returns.
- We prioritize health and safety first. If your roof or electrical system has sustained visible damage, please do not attempt to investigate or repair it yourself. Wait for our trained professionals or emergency responders.
Whether your system was installed by A&R Solar or another company, we can:
- Coordinate a site inspection to assess storm-related issues
- Help document damage for insurance claims
- Repair or replace damaged components to get your system back to full capacity