Bird Proofing Your Solar Panels

Are you the proud owner of a solar panel system, or are you considering installing one? While the idea of harnessing solar energy for your home or business is undoubtedly appealing, a lesser-known concern deserves your attention: bird proofing your solar panels.

At first glance, it might not seem like a pressing issue, but the reality is that birds can cause significant damage to your panels, leading to costly repairs and reduced efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore why bird proofing is essential and provide effective solutions to ensure your solar panels remain clean, functional, and bird-free. Let’s dive into the world of solar panel bird protection.

Key Takeaways

• Bird-proofing your solar panels is essential to protect your investment. Birds can damage panels, cause rooftop staining, and attract diseases and pests.
• The cost of bird-proofing solar panels varies depending on the method used, ranging from $400 to $900 or more.
• Effective ways to bird-proof your panels include installing solar panel mesh, using bird netting, and regular panel cleaning to prevent nesting and maintain their functionality.

Do you Need Bird Proof Solar Panels?

Pest prevention is not a thought that crosses your mind every day. However, if you have invested good money into an expensive PV system, you do not want to end up with destroyed panels. Birds can create havoc in your yard and cause costly damage.

Hence, the short answer is – yes! You do need to protect your solar panel arrays. Nesting materials, plastic predators, and frisky birds are significant dangers to your panels. There is no question that pest prevention is necessary to protect your pocket!

What is the Importance of Solar Panel Bird Proofing?

In order to not have trouble and costly repairs to your solar system, you should bird proof your home. You honestly don’t want to deal with the mess birds create.

Here are 3 reasons you should implement bird control in your garden immediately.

You Will Lose Effectiveness in Your Panels

It would be best to prevent pest birds because they interrupt the flow from the panels to the board. This happens because they damage the wiring of the solar array.

Your Rooftop Will Get Stained

Many homeowners do not realize that birds nest in the area beneath solar arrays. This means that your rooftop will be a mess. The pest birds will leave droppings on your roof and permanently damage them.

You Attract Diseases and Other Pests onto Your Roofs

There are many air-borne diseases that birds carry. These dangerous pathogens could come into your house. A bird’s droppings and roost can attract many unhygienic animals like rats, mice, and cockroaches.

How Much Does it Cost for Bird Proofing Solar Panels?

Pigeons are the biggest threat to even a single solar panel that you own. In order to have proper bird control in place, you need to pigeon-proof your solar panels. The cost to rid your everyday life of pigeons can start from USD 400, depending upon what you need to be done.

If you’re feeling rich, you can opt for bird control which would leave a USD 900 hole in your wallet. The price will also depend upon if you use wires, wire mesh, spikes, or decoys. The cost of repair also depends upon the damage.

Most bird proofing services will include the following:

1. Removal of existing nests or dead pigeons
2. Cleaning of each solar panel
3. Using bird control products like biocide and chemical solutions

How Do I Keep Birds from Nesting Under my Solar Panels?

Now that you’re armed with all the information on why it is vital to have bird proofing, you need to know how to do it.

Here are 3 very effective ways to bird proof your panels.

Install Solar Panel Mesh for Pigeons

Bird mesh to protect you from those pesky pigeons is the best protection you can have. It is designed to fill the area under your solar panels. Since the area is no longer available for birds, customers don’t have to worry about bird droppings and feathers getting into it.

The mesh also looks very discreet. Most customers appreciate this fact a lot. The debris also no longer collects underneath the panels, which helps keep the roof clean.

Bird Netting Around Each Solar Panel

If you don’t like mesh, then you can use bird netting instead. You can place the netting around each solar panel as a barrier to save them. Net stops birds from accessing the areas they desire. This is a very similar method to using mesh.

However, a mesh is said to be a better option to stop birds nesting on your roof.

Clean Your Panels Regularly

It would be best if you cleaned every solar panel on your roof as much as you could. Being proactive in keeping your solar panels in good condition will ensure their longevity. A nice, clean space will make sure no nesting takes place, as it would be less attractive for the birds.

You can also have your solar panels cleaned by professional services. They will remove all feathers and droppings that you don’t want to touch. This will also help with long-term functionality. Your solar systems left unchanged won’t be a good thing in the long run.

Case Study: Bird Proofing Solar Panels for Maximum Efficiency

Background

At Solar Panels Network USA, we emphasize the importance of maintaining and protecting solar panel installations. A recent project highlighted the critical need for effective bird-proofing measures to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of solar panels.

Project Overview

We were approached by a residential client who had invested significantly in a solar panel system. The client was concerned about the increasing presence of birds nesting under the panels, causing damage and reducing the system’s efficiency. Our goal was to implement a comprehensive bird-proofing solution that would protect the panels and maintain their functionality.

Implementation

Inspection and Assessment
Our team conducted a thorough inspection of the solar panel installation. We identified multiple nests and significant droppings under the panels, which were causing partial shading and potential damage to the wiring.

Cleaning and Preparation
Before implementing the bird-proofing measures, we cleaned the entire area, removing all nests, feathers, and droppings. This step was crucial to ensure that the panels were free from any debris that could affect their performance.

Installation of Bird Mesh
We installed a high-quality bird mesh around the perimeter of the solar panels. This mesh was chosen for its durability and discreet appearance. It was carefully secured to prevent any gaps where birds could enter. The mesh provided an effective barrier, preventing birds from accessing the space under the panels.

Regular Maintenance Plan
To ensure long-term protection, we developed a maintenance plan for the client. This included periodic inspections and cleaning services to keep the panels free from debris and to check the integrity of the bird mesh.

Results

The bird-proofing measures proved highly effective. The client reported a significant reduction in bird activity around the panels. The solar panels operated at their full efficiency, with no further issues of shading or damage from nesting birds. The rooftop remained clean, and the overall aesthetic of the property was preserved.

Summary

Bird-proofing your solar panels is an essential investment to protect your solar energy system from potential damage and efficiency loss. By implementing effective measures such as installing bird mesh and regular maintenance, you can ensure that your solar panels remain functional and efficient for years to come. At Solar Panels Network USA, we are committed to providing comprehensive solutions to maintain the performance and longevity of your solar installations.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Bird Proofing Your Solar Panels

Bird-proofing your solar panels is a crucial step to ensure their longevity and efficiency. Without proper protection, birds can cause extensive damage that leads to costly repairs and reduced energy output.

Senior Solar Installer

Installing a mesh around your solar panels is one of the most effective ways to prevent birds from nesting underneath. It not only protects your investment but also keeps your rooftop clean and free from droppings.

Lead Solar Technician

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your solar panels can significantly reduce the risk of bird-related damage. Professional cleaning services can help ensure that your panels remain in optimal condition, providing maximum efficiency.

Chief Installation Engineer

Experience Solar Excellence with Us!

Trust in Solar Panels Network USA, where our seasoned experts deliver top-quality solar solutions for homes and businesses nationwide. With a legacy of countless successful installations and a commitment to sustainable energy, we’re your reliable partner in the solar journey. Ready for a brighter, eco-friendly future? Call us now at (855) 427-0058 and harness the power of the sun!

Final Words

Every solar panel of yours is an investment intended to last for a long time. It is imperative that you shell out the money to keep them clean and bird-free. Solar panel bird maintenance is crucial. You need to remove all debris, droppings, and nests.

This guide has given you all the information you need to keep your solar system safe.