How Birds Can Damage Your Solar Panels and What You Can Do About It

It is expensive to invest in solar panels, and they provide energy that is economical and sustainable. Unfortunately, birds can be detrimental to how well the solar panels work and their longevity. Nesting and droppings of birds can cause severe damage and decrease the effectiveness of your solar energy system. Fortunately, there are some good solutions against these feathered intruders: pest exclusion for solar panels includes critter guards, mesh barriers, as well as bird spikes.

The Problem: How Birds Damage Solar Panels

Birds fly around solar panels because it is a warm and safe place to shelter and nest. It, however, does not seem such a great bodily harm. Look what they are up to:

Nesting Under Panels: Birds will often construct nests underneath solar panels in the gap between the roof and the solar panel. Such nests block airflow, causing an overheated panel that works less efficiently. Nests are also very flammable, resulting in a fire hazard.

Droppings on Panels: The surface of the solar panels may corrode as the droppings become acidic over time. A layer of droppings settles on the surface of the panels inhibiting the penetration of sunlight, reducing their power generation capabilities.

Pecking and Chewing: Some birds and other critters chew on the wiring or peck at the panels. They cause some electrical issues in addition to physical damage that will demand costly repairs.

Debris Accumulation: Debris like feathers, nesting materials, and much more debris will accumulate under and around the panels to create a pool of water, which may cause damage to the roof and the panels themselves.

The Solution: Protecting Panels from Birds

Protecting panels from birds involves implementing effective pest exclusion for solar panel techniques. Here are some proven methods to keep your panels safe:

2. Use Mesh Barriers

Mesh barriers are another excellent option for excluding birds. These barriers are placed around the perimeter of your solar panels to seal off entry points. The mesh is fine enough to keep even small birds out, ensuring that they cannot nest or roost under your panels. Mesh barriers are easy to install and can be customized to fit any solar panel layout.

1. Install Critter Guards

Critter guards are specially designed barriers that prevent birds and small animals from accessing the space beneath your solar panels. These guards are typically made of durable materials like galvanized steel or PVC-coated mesh and are installed along the edges of the panels. Critter guard not only deters birds but also keeps other pests like squirrels and rodents at bay.

3. Add Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are a simple yet effective tool for preventing birds from landing on your solar panels. These spikes create an uncomfortable surface, discouraging birds from perching. While bird spikes might seem aggressive, they are humane and do not harm the birds. They’re ideal for areas where birds commonly land or roost.

4. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your solar panels and the surrounding areas can help deter birds. Remove any nests, droppings, or debris as soon as possible to prevent long-term damage. Schedule professional maintenance to ensure your solar panels remain in top condition.

Benefits of Pest Exclusion for Solar Panels

Investing in pest exclusion measures offers several advantages:

Improved Efficiency: Preventing bird droppings and debris ensures that your panels can absorb maximum sunlight.

Reduced Maintenance Costs: Avoid costly repairs caused by nesting, chewing, or droppings.

Extended Lifespan: Protecting your panels from physical damage and corrosion increases their longevity.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your solar panels are safeguarded against birds and other pests allows you to enjoy uninterrupted energy production.

Professional Installation: Ensuring Long-Term Protection

Some pest exclusion methods can be a do-it-yourself thing, but most of the time, having a professional install is best. Experts can review your solar panel system, find weak spots, and recommend the best ways to protect it like critter guards, mesh barriers, or bird spikes. Exclusion systems should typically be installed professionally because they will be more securely and accurately tailored to individual needs.

Keep your solar panels free of birds while ensuring that they work optimally for the years to come by taking advantage of critter guards, mesh barriers, and bird spikes.

If you need pest exclusion for solar panels, it's best to consult professionals. Qualified people will keep your solar investment well and true; indeed, the right measures will give you clean renewable energy without worries about unwanted feathered guests coming to bother and invade your beautiful solar sanctuary.