Sustainability is a major focus today, and energy saving is a given. Those who have installed a photovoltaic system on their roof are fortunate. But what happens if the roof structure catches fire? Are there disadvantages?
Since photovoltaic systems have been installed on roofs, a persistent rumor suggests that the fire department will not extinguish the house. But is that really true? How should one act if there's a fire on the roof and solar panels are present? myHOMEBOOK investigated and asked the fire department.
The introduction of photovoltaic systems has significantly changed the rules for the fire department. Firefighters sometimes cannot easily reach the source of the fire. Carsten-Michael Pix from the German Firefighters Association explains to myHOMEBOOK: "Of course, a solar system doesn't make extinguishing easier. I have something on the roof that naturally makes access more difficult. And when I'm looking for the fire, I first have to remove something, but it's not impossible."
Photovoltaic systems do not always need to be removed during a fire, only if the fire is in close proximity. The German Firefighters Association has published a brochure for firefighters. It contains many helpful tips on how to handle a fire involving photovoltaic systems.
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It's clearly a rumor. The fire department must decide how to proceed with each fire individually, and whether a photovoltaic system is involved is secondary. "It's complete nonsense; the fire department will always help," says Carsten-Michael Pix. "Of course, if it is, in quotes, worth it." For example, if a barn with a photovoltaic system is "fully involved," as the fire department jargon goes, the fire department might initially not extinguish it. In such cases, the fire department might let certain parts burn, according to Pix. "But that has nothing to do with the photovoltaic system; it's always an individual decision," the spokesperson explains.
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The rumor that the fire department doesn't extinguish when a photovoltaic system is involved has persisted for years. Over fifteen years ago, there was an incident that might have sparked the rumor. Pix is familiar with the case: "I know of an operation somewhere in East Frisia, where the issue was very new. The fire department didn't really know what to do, and ultimately, very unfortunate images emerged." The fire department, which Pix says was overwhelmed and helpless, apparently let the building burn down.
Yes and no. Solar modules are made from various materials but can usually only smolder. The cables to which the panels are attached are generally not fire starters either. Like all other cables, they are encased in plastic. "But the parts can't really burn, as we commonly understand fire," Pix reassures. Additionally, roof tiles to which solar modules are attached are never flammable.
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No. You can, but you don't have to. When making an emergency call, you should mention everything that seems important at the moment. The fire department assesses the situation on-site, Pix explains: "The first firefighter on the scene always conducts a survey." This involves questions about whether people are in danger, what is burning, where it is burning, and whether anything specific needs to be known, such as the presence of gas cylinders in a workshop or solar panels. Even if the fire department sends someone on a reconnaissance mission, it never hurts to inform them about potentially hard-to-see solar modules, especially on a very tall building.  
Generally, you can't prevent a fire. For instance, you can't control whether lightning strikes. However, owners can do one essential thing, the expert advises, which is to ensure installations are done according to the latest technology standards, meaning hiring good craftsmen, not those who have only been doing it for three months. Comparing companies is definitely advisable, and in this regard, one shouldn't necessarily focus on saving money.
Insurance is available for all life situations. Some are essential, while others are just for peace of mind. You don't need special insurance for photovoltaic systems. However, you should definitely consult with your insurance provider, Pix advises: "There are so many different scenarios. A policy might have been taken out decades ago when photovoltaic systems didn't even exist. Talking to your insurance is always the right move." In this case, caution is better than regret.
The post How Dangerous Are Photovoltaic Systems in a House Fire? appeared first on myHOMEBOOK.
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