Do Solar Panels Make Noise?

By Kami Turky

Last Updated:

The answer is NO, but the question isn’t as straightforward as it sounds.

Yes, solar panels do make some noise when the wind hits them.

However, if your question is about the subtle humming sound that is often associated with solar systems, then allow me to inform you that this sound actually comes from the inverter, not the solar panels.

Most of the time, this noise is just more or less a hum that can be heard from inside your home and doesn’t do much to interfere with daily life.

A good way to think about it is like a refrigerator humming in another room- you know it’s there but you don’t really notice. If panels do make any noise at all, they usually only do so when they’re under heavy load and need cleaning or repairing.

Is Noise From Solar Panels Normal?

Noise from solar panels is not normal- they should operate perfectly without any issues and do their jobs quietly so you can enjoy clean power for your home or business while still being able to go about living your life normally with no interruptions.

If your panels do make noise, then this is likely because they are dirty or under heavy load (i.e., while using electricity)- if the noise keeps happening after a few days though, there may be another issue with either your racking system or inverter which needs to be fixed properly by professionals before further damage can be done.

Why Are My Solar Panels Making Banging Noise?

A loud banging noise is a sign that your racking bolts are loose.

Loose bolts do not provide the support that your panels need to remain safely attached to their racking system, and it’s likely that one or more of them will fly off if you don’t tighten them soon.

A loose bolt can cause damage to your panels as well as other parts on the roof and even people/ animals below the solar system!

The good news is that this sound will subside once you do tighten the bolts down.

However, if your panels are making a banging noise on an ongoing basis (i.e., more than one time), it’s likely there is another issue with them and they may need to be replaced altogether.

Why Are My Solar Panels Making Clicking Sound?

The clicking sounds that you hear are usually caused by the voltage regulator.

The clicking sound is actually the voltage regulator telling your system to do something (like shut down or slow down).

The noise will stop once whatever needs fixing has been fixed, but if it keeps happening after a few days then there may be another issue with either your panels or racking system.

Do Solar Panels Make A Humming Noise?

The humming sound that you may hear is actually the inverter.

If your panels do make this noise, it’s likely because they are under heavy load (i.e., while using electricity) and need cleaning or other repairs to get them working again properly.

Do Solar Panels Buzz?

Solar panels do not buzz- there are no moving parts on them which can cause this sound, so if they do it then something has gone wrong with either the racking system or inverter.

In these cases, do not do any DIY fixes as this will do more harm than good and cause even more problems.

Instead, hire a professional who knows how to fix the problem properly without causing further issues or harming your system in any way.

Do Solar Panels Make Noise At Night?

At night, the wind speed tends to decrease, so it’s less likely to be a problem, so you do not need to worry about the panels making noise.

The only exception is if there are high winds during nighttime hours.

Even then, it’s usually just a bit of sound that doesn’t really affect your sleep or anything else for that matter.

For the inverter humming sound, then no, the inverter only operates during the day, so it shouldn’t cause any noise.

How Loud Is The Noise From Solar Panels?

The noise from solar panels can vary depending on the weather and other factors.

For example, if there are high winds then this will definitely cause more of an issue than normal- especially at night time when everything has calmed down after a storm.

The good news is that it’s usually not a huge issue and won’t do any real damage to you or your system so long as the noise from panels doesn’t continue for too long.

How To Silence Noise From Solar Panels?

To reduce solar panel noise, do everything possible to keep them clear of dust/ dirt if possible.

This will do a lot to reduce the noise that comes from them moving in high winds- it’s also why you should always clean your solar panels with water or a specific cleaning solution rather than harsh chemicals or soap (which can do more harm than good).

You could also look into getting some noise dampening material if possible which will do a lot to reduce the noise that your panels make when not in use.

Last Words

Noise from solar panels can vary depending on the system you have, but do not worry- it’s usually nothing to be too concerned about.

If your noise is more of a clicking sound, then make sure that everything attached to your racking system is properly tightened down so there are no loose parts which could cause even further problems for you.

If your noise is more of a hum, then do not do anything yourself- instead, call up a professional so they can get the job done and ensure that there are no further issues with your system.

However, if it’s something else entirely (i.e., panels making banging sounds on an ongoing basis), then do not do anything yourself as this could do more harm than good and cause further issues down the track.

Call a professional instead who knows what they are doing so you can get back up and running quickly without having to worry about any potential safety or health risks that DIY fixes may do.

Kami Turky

Kami is a solar engineer with nearly a decade of experience in researching, testing, and reviewing various solar products. He has also provided technical consultation to several organizations on the best ways to incorporate solar energy into their operations. When he’s not busy helping others find the best solar solutions, Kami enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, camping, and exploring the natural wonders of his home state.

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