Birds are beautiful creatures and many people enjoy having them around. However, when they start building nests on/ under solar panels, it can become a real problem. Not only do the nests block the sunlight from being absorbed by the panels, but they can also cause short circuits, leading to decreased efficiency and even total panel failure.
In this article, we will explore some ways to keep birds away from your solar panels so that you can continue to benefit from their clean energy production. The solar panels on your home or business are an important investment, and you want to make sure they are protected from any potential damage.
Why Are Birds attracted to Solar Panels?
Birds are naturally drawn to solar panels because they are often seeking out places to build their nests. Solar panels provide a flat, wide surface that is perfect for birds to land on and build their nests.
In addition, the heat emanating from the solar panels can make the area around them more comfortable for birds to roost in, especially during colder months. The warmth from the solar panels can also help to keep the eggs warm, making them more likely to hatch successfully.
What kind of damage can birds do to solar panels?
There are a few different ways that birds can damage solar panels. Some of the most common problems include:
- Blocked sunlight: When birds build nests on top of solar panels, it can block the sun from being absorbed by the panel, which reduces its efficiency.
- Short circuits: Bird droppings can cause short circuits in solar panels if they build up on the surface of the panel or get into the electrical components.
- Physical damage: Birds can also cause physical damage to solar panels by pecking at the surface or trying to build their nests on top of them. This can lead to cracks and breaks in the panel, which can decrease its efficiency or cause it to stop working entirely.
What can I do to keep birds away from my solar panels?
There are a few different ways that you can keep birds away from your solar panels. Some of the most effective methods include:
1) Installing Bird Netting:
Bird netting is a physical barrier that will prevent birds from being able to land on your solar panels. It is important to make sure that the netting is installed securely so that birds cannot find a way around it.
The netting should also be installed in a way that does not block sunlight from reaching the solar panels. If the netting is too thick, it could reduce the amount of power the solar panels can produce.
2) Using Visual Deterrents:
Visual deterrents are anything that will make the area around your solar panels less attractive to birds. Some common examples include bird spikes, balloons, and Mylar tape. These products work by making the area around your solar panels less comfortable for birds to roost in.
The most important thing to remember when using visual deterrents is to move them around regularly. Birds are smart and they will quickly get used to seeing the same things in the same place. If you keep moving your deterrents around, it will be much more effective at keeping birds away.
3) Birds Spike Strips
Another effective way of keeping birds away from your solar panels is by installing bird spike strips. These are long strips of metal or plastic that have sharp points sticking out of them. They make it impossible for birds to land on your solar panels without getting hurt.
These spike strips can be purchased online or at most hardware stores. They are relatively easy to install and they will last for many years.
4) Using The Solar Skirt
Solar skirts are a new product that is designed to keep birds away from solar panels. They are made of a flexible material that can be wrapped around the base of your solar panels. The skirt will prevent birds from being able to land or perch on the panels.
These solar skirts are a great option if you live in an area with a lot of birds. They are also easy to install and they will not block sunlight from reaching the solar panels.
5) Keep Your Garden Clean
One of the best ways to keep birds away from your solar panels is to make sure that your garden is clean. Birds are attracted to areas where there is food and water available. If you keep your garden free of debris, it will be less attractive to birds.
You should also make sure to trim any vegetation that is growing near your solar panels. Birds like to perch in trees and shrubs, so it is important to keep them trimmed back.
By following these tips, you can keep birds away from your solar panels and prevent them from causing any damage.
Does bird poop affect solar panels?
Bird poop can have a significant impact on the performance of solar panels. If the feces accumulate on your panels, they can obstruct the sun’s rays and cause damage to the panel’s surface.
When birds poop on solar panels, it can cause a decrease in the amount of electricity that is produced. In some cases, bird droppings can reduce the power output of a solar panel by up to 30%. This loss of power can add up over time and lead to higher energy bills.
In addition to affecting the performance of your solar panels, bird droppings can also damage the surface of the panels. The acidity in bird poop can eat away at the panel’s protective coating, which can eventually lead to leaks. If left untreated, these leaks can cause serious damage to your home.
If you have birds roosting on or near your solar panels, it’s important to take action to keep them away. There are a number of different methods you can use to deter birds, such as installing bird netting or spikes.
Can you put bird netting over solar panels?
Yes, Bird netting is an effective way to keep birds away from your solar panels. The netting creates a physical barrier that birds cannot penetrate. When installed properly, bird netting can also be invisible to the naked eye.
If you decide to use bird netting, it’s important to make sure that it is installed correctly. The netting should be taut and secure, with no gaps or holes. It’s also important to ensure that the netting does not come into contact with the solar panels, as this can cause damage.
Conclusion
Solar panels are a great way to generate clean, renewable energy. However, birds can pose a serious threat to the performance of your solar panels. If you have birds near your solar panels, it is important to take action to keep them away.
There are several effective ways to keep birds away from solar panels, including using bird netting, installing spikes or wire mesh, and using ultrasonic devices. Ultimately, the best method for keeping birds away from your solar panels will depend on the specific situation.
If you’re having trouble keeping birds away from your solar panels, it’s important to seek professional help. A qualified solar panel installer will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best solution for your needs.
