Protecting Solar Panels from Birds and Other Animals

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular for their energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, they are vulnerable to damage from birds and other animals. Birds, such as pigeons, can cause harm to solar panels by perching on them and leaving droppings, building nests, scratching, and pecking.

In this article, we will explore the hazards that birds and the costs associated with protecting your solar panels. Other animals such as squirrels, rodents, and possums may also cause damage by chewing through cables or scratching panels. So, we will also explore strategies for protecting and maintaining your solar panels from them.

Hazards Posed by Birds

Bird droppings are a common problem for solar panel owners. They can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, decreasing their output by up to 25%. This is because bird droppings can create a layer of dirt on the panel’s surface, blocking sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells. Birds can also build nests on or around solar panels which can cause damage in the long term. This happens by clogging air spaces causing the panels to overheat.

Birds may also scratch and peck at solar panels, which can cause cracks or breakages in the glass surface. This can result in a severe reduction of the panel’s efficiency and create a safety hazard by exposing the electrical components.

How To Bird Proof Your Solar Panels And Cost Estimates

To prevent birds from damaging solar panels, several measures can be taken:

Install bird nets or wires: This is the most effective way to keep birds from nesting or perching on solar panels. Bird nets and wires can keep birds away from the panels without harming them.

Use bird repellents: There are several types of bird repellents, including reflective tapes, shiny objects, and bird spikes that can make landing on or near solar panels unattractive.

Clean panels regularly: Regularly cleaning panels ensure the surface remains free from bird droppings and other debris that may have accumulated.

Costs to Bird Proof Your Solar Panel Investment

The cost of bird-proofing solar panels can vary depending on several factors. It is important to remember these are estimates.

Here are some common bird-proofing methods and their average costs:

Mesh or Netting: One effective method to prevent birds from nesting or roosting beneath solar panels is installing mesh or netting around their perimeter. This solution can cost between $0.50 to $2 per square foot depending on the quality and material used, while installation expense may vary as per the solar array size and mounting system complexity. All in all, the total costs for installing mesh or netting can range from $500 to $2,000 on average.

Spikes or Deterrent Strips: To prevent birds from perching on solar panels, you can attach bird spikes or deterrent strips to the edges. These strips create an unpleasant surface, discouraging birds from landing. Depending on the material and quality, the cost of spikes or deterrent strips is between $1 and $5 per linear foot. The installation expenses depend on the number of panels and the complexity of the mounting system. On average, the total cost for spikes or deterrent strips installation ranges from $500 to $2,000.

Visual Deterrents: It is possible to keep birds away from solar panels by using visual deterrents such as predator decoys, scare balloons, or reflective tape. The cost of acquiring these methods will depend on the preferred type and quantity. On average, the cost of these visual deterrents ranges between $50 to $300.

Professional Installation: When choosing professional installation services, it is important to note that the cost will be inclusive of labor charges. The fee for the labor may vary depending on the bird-proofing approach’s complexity, the number of panels used, and access to the installation site. Generally, installation costs for bird-proofing solar panels through professionals are between $500 to $2,000 on average, with larger or more complex installations coming at a higher cost.

Hazards Posed by Other Animals

Squirrels, rodents, and possums may also cause damage to solar panels. They tend to nest in attics and other spaces near solar panels and may chew through wires or insulation. Rodents and squirrels may also scratch or gnaw on solar panels, causing irreparable damage.

Strategies to Protect Solar Panels from Other Animals

To prevent other animals from damaging solar panels, several measures can be taken:

Seal all entry points: Seal any openings or gaps in the roof or around solar panels to prevent animals from entering and nesting.

Trim tree branches: Trim any tree branches near the panels to prevent animals from using them as a launching point to jump onto the panels.

Install animal deterrents: Electronic animal repellents or humane traps can keep squirrels, rodents and other animals at bay.

Benefits of Keeping Solar Panels Bird and Animal-Free

By protecting solar panels from birds and other animals, you can ensure their longevity, cost-effectiveness, and safety. The efficiency of solar panels is directly related to their maintenance and upkeep. Keeping the panels clean and free from bird droppings or other debris will ensure maximum power output and longevity. Damage to solar panels, on the other hand, can be expensive and lead to decreased efficiency, component failures, and additional maintenance costs.

Conclusion

Protecting solar panels from birds and other animals is an essential aspect of maintaining a solar power system. This requires taking proactive measures to eliminate potential nesting points, cleaning panels regularly, and installing bird or animal deterrents. By keeping your solar panels bird and animal-free, you can ensure maximum energy output, cost-effectiveness, and safety.