How to keep your solar panels safe from theft, fire and other hazards

In light of the growing trend of solar panel theft in South Africa, homeowners are urged to take proactive measures to safeguard their investments. Johanni Jennings from Auto & General Insurance, speaking to MyBroadband, emphasizes the importance of installing robust security barriers such as sturdy gates, electric fences, and security beams. Additionally, homeowners are advised to utilize CCTV systems for monitoring and ensure adequate insurance coverage. Jennings further highlights the need for prioritising safety during installation and maintenance to mitigate potential fire hazards associated with solar systems. With these precautions in place, homeowners can protect their homes and enjoy the benefits of solar power with peace of mind..Sign up for your early morning brew of the BizNews Insider to keep you up to speed with the content that matters. The newsletter will land in your inbox at 5:30am weekdays. Register here..By Myles Illidge.Solar panel theft is an emerging trend in South Africa, and Auto & General Insurance's Johanni Jennings says it's best to install them far out of reach and behind robust security barriers..These barriers include a sturdy perimeter wall or fence, secure access gates, electric fences, and several other security interventions..Jennings explained the ideal security setup to keep your solar power investment as secure as possible.."Secure and sturdy access gates. Ideally, these should be operated remotely and opened and closed quickly to limit the window of opportunity for criminals," she said.."Ensure that gates can't be lifted off their rails with a crowbar and that gate motors are well hidden and can't be accessed easily.".Read more: MK party: Kremlin's Spear; Ramaphosa's "unlawful" Putin deal freed Zuma – André Pienaar.Jennings added that electric fences are an effective way to deter criminals. However, they must be professionally installed.."An electric fence offers an extra security barrier and serves as a further deterrent to criminals," she said.."Make sure yours is installed by a certified professional, in accordance with electric fence compliance regulations."."Be sure to check for vulnerable spots where the fence can be bypassed by, for example, stepping on part of the wall, or using a nearby tree for leverage," Jennings added..If criminals can get past your electric fence, your next line of defence should be security beams around and inside your home linked to an alarm system..Jennings said these act as an early warning system, giving homeowners and security companies a bit more time to react to threats.."CCTV systems are becoming increasingly affordable and offer an easy way for you to keep an eye on your property," she added.."You can even monitor your home remotely via a smartphone app. This can provide valuable footage if your home is broken into.".Jennings explained that some homeowners don't have enough space on their roofs to install sufficient solar panels to meet their requirements..Read more: Beware Cele! Ian Cameron is heading to Parliament.In cases where solar panels are installed at ground level, she advised that security measures like those above are installed around them..Regarding insurance, Jennings noted that solar panels and some generators are fixed to the property and therefore, covered under a building insurance policy and don't need to be specified separately..However, homeowners must inform their insurer to adjust their insured sum accordingly.."If a device is not fixed — like an inverter or UPS for example, it would be insured under home contents cover," said Jennings.."These devices do not need to be specified, but the overall sum insured should be reviewed to ensure it is sufficient to cover the replacement of the items.".Solar system risks.Jennings explained that homeowners should know that solar and battery setups can present a fire hazard if installed incorrectly..She said it is essential that homeowners use experienced installers and maintain their solar systems regularly..She listed several guidelines that should be followed when installing a solar and battery system:.Ensure that the area surrounding the system is free from fire and flammable materialsStore batteries in a designated, well-ventilated area away from potential ignition sourcesInstall fire alarms in the system's vicinity for an early warning system for potential incidentsEnsure you have fire extinguishers that are easily accessibleSchedule regular inspections and maintenance by a qualified electricianKeep up-to-date on safety guidelines and best practices to reduce risks proactively.Read also:.The youth are fed up with capitalism, but their blame is misguided – Ivo Vegter🔒 Britain's budget dilemma: UK citizens may get taxed on their worldwide earnings – Merryn Somerset-WebbDe Beer: On the MPC, RET, ANC & the IEC's "earth-shattering bomb" on smaller parties….This article was first published on MyBroadband and was republished with permission

How to keep your solar panels safe from theft, fire and other hazards

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