Keep It Clean: How a Solar Pigeon Guard Improves Solar Panel Efficiency

 

If you’ve invested in solar panels for your home or business, you’re already doing something great for the environment and your energy bills. Solar panels are a powerful way to harness the sun’s energy, but like anything exposed to the outdoors, they require some upkeep. One issue many solar panel owners face is the presence of birds, particularly pigeons, nesting on or around their panels. This can lead to dirt, debris, and even damage, reducing the efficiency of your solar system. That’s where a solar pigeon guard comes in. 

In this blog, we’ll explore how installing a solar pigeon guard can make a huge difference in maintaining your panels’ efficiency, and why it’s an essential addition to your solar setup.

Why Are Pigeons a Problem for Solar Panels?

Pigeons are known to settle in various nooks and crannies, and your solar panels’ frames provide the perfect sheltered spot. This can lead to a few issues:

1. Blocked Sunlight

Pigeons build nests under the panels, blocking the sunlight from reaching the solar cells. When the cells are shaded, they can’t absorb as much energy from the sun. This leads to a reduction in overall panel performance and decreases energy output.

2. Debris Build-Up

Pigeon droppings, feathers, and nesting materials can accumulate around and under your solar panels. These contaminants not only make your solar system look dirty but can also cause long-term damage. Droppings are acidic and, over time, can corrode the panels and your roof, leading to costly repairs.

3. Potential Damage

The weight of pigeon nests and constant scratching and pecking can result in physical damage to your solar panels. Pigeons might also attempt to pull at the wiring, causing damage to the electrical components of your system. Their droppings are so acidic that they burn through roofing materials. This could leave you with expensive repairs or even a system that’s not functioning at all.

How Does a Solar Pigeon Guard Help?

Now that we understand why pigeons can cause such issues for solar panels, let’s talk about how a solar pigeon guard can help solve these problems.

1. Keeps Birds Away from the Panels

The main function of a solar pigeon guard is to prevent pigeons and other birds from nesting on or around your solar panels. These guards are designed to fit around the edges of the panels, creating a barrier that makes it harder for birds to access the space underneath. By installing a solar pigeon guard, you’ll deter birds from settling near your system and reduce the risk of nests forming.

2. Prevents Damage to the Panels

By preventing birds from accessing the underside of your panels, a solar pigeon guard helps avoid the risk of damage. The guard keeps birds away from your solar system’s wiring and electrical components, preventing them from chewing on wires or nesting in vulnerable spots.

3. Keeps the Panels Clean

A solar pigeon guard also helps keep your solar panels cleaner by preventing debris from building up underneath. Since birds won’t be able to settle there, they won’t leave droppings, feathers, or nesting materials behind. This means you won’t need to clean your panels as frequently, and they will stay in top condition.

4. Improves Solar Panel Efficiency

By protecting your panels from dirt and keeping them free from shading, a solar pigeon guard ensures that your system operates at its highest potential. Clean panels are more efficient at absorbing sunlight, which leads to better performance and higher energy output. This means you’ll be able to generate more power from your solar panels, and your system will pay off faster.

The Process of Solar Panel Bird Guard Installation

Installing a solar pigeon guard might seem complicated, but it’s actually a fairly simple process. Here’s what you can expect from the solar panel bird guard installation process at Wash Me Solar.

1. Inspection and Cleanup

Before installing a solar pigeon guard, the first step is to have your solar system inspected. A professional will assess your panels, checking for any existing damage or bird-related issues. They also remove all pigeons and clean up droppings and debris from the pigeons – this step is incredibly important, as the pigeons will keep returning if they see and smell their nesting materials. 

2. Installation of the Guard

This typically involves securing the guard around the edges of the solar panels. It is a non-intrusive process, meaning no permanent damage is done to your panels. The solar panel bird guard installation process is quick, and most installations are completed in just a few hours.

3. Disinfect All Surfaces

Disinfecting is essential because pigeon feces contains harmful bacteria. This disinfectant spray also removes the scent of their feces, which keeps the pigeons from coming back. 

4. Final Inspection

After installation, the technician will check that the guard is securely in place and that there are no gaps or areas where birds could still access the panels. They’ll also ensure that the guard doesn’t interfere with the panel’s performance.

Benefits of a Solar Pigeon Guard

Installing a solar pigeon guard offers several advantages for your solar panel system. Here are some key benefits:

1. Reduced Maintenance Costs

By keeping pigeons and debris away from your panels, you’ll spend less time and money on cleaning and repairs. Preventing damage early on helps you avoid costly repairs in the future.

2. Better Solar Efficiency

A solar pigeon guard allows your panels to stay clean and free from shading, improving their overall efficiency. Clean, unobstructed panels absorb more sunlight, leading to higher energy output and greater savings on your energy bills.

3. Protection from Corrosion

Pigeon droppings are acidic and can corrode your solar panels (and roof!) if left unchecked. With a solar pigeon guard, you protect your panels from the harmful effects of bird waste, helping extend the life of your solar system.

4. Eco-Friendly

Not only does a solar pigeon guard protect your panels, but it also prevents harm to local wildlife. By using humane methods to deter birds, you can protect both your solar system and the local bird population.

5. Increased Property Value

A well-maintained solar system with a solar pigeon guard is an attractive feature for potential homebuyers. Keeping your panels in good condition ensures that your home retains its value and continues to provide energy savings for future owners.

Are Solar Pigeon Guards Worth It?

You may be wondering if a solar pigeon guard is worth the investment. If you live in an area where birds are a problem, then the answer is a definite yes! Not only does it protect your solar panels and keep them clean, but it also improves the efficiency of your system. With a relatively low upfront cost and long-term benefits, a solar pigeon guard is an essential investment for anyone with solar panels.

By preventing the issues caused by bird nesting, droppings, and debris, a solar pigeon guard helps ensure that your solar panels operate at peak performance. This means you can generate more energy, save more money, and enjoy the full benefits of your solar investment.

Take Action and Protect Your Solar Panels Today!

If you want to keep your solar panels in top shape and ensure they’re working efficiently for years to come, a solar pigeon guard is the way to go. Installing one not only protects your system from bird damage but also improves its overall performance, saving you money on maintenance and increasing your energy savings.

Don’t wait for pigeons to start causing issues. Contact us today for professional solar panel bird guard installation and ensure your solar system remains clean, efficient, and protected from bird-related problems. With a simple, affordable solution, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your panels are safe from the mess and damage caused by birds.

FAQs

1. What is a solar pigeon guard?

A solar pigeon guard is a protective barrier designed to prevent pigeons and other birds from nesting under or around your solar panels. It helps to keep your panels clean and free from debris, ensuring optimal performance and protecting them from potential damage caused by bird activity.

2. How does a solar pigeon guard improve solar panel efficiency?

By preventing birds from nesting and blocking sunlight, a solar pigeon guard helps maintain clear access to the solar cells. Clean, unobstructed panels absorb more sunlight, which increases their efficiency and energy output, leading to more savings on your energy bills.

3. Is the installation of a solar pigeon guard difficult?

No, solar panel bird guard installation is a straightforward process. A professional will assess your solar system and install the guard around the edges of your panels. The process is quick and non-intrusive, usually taking just a few hours.

4. Will a solar pigeon guard damage my solar panels?

No, a solar pigeon guard is designed to be installed without causing any damage to your solar panels. It’s a non-invasive solution that doesn’t require drilling or permanent modifications to your panels, ensuring their integrity remains intact.

5. How do I know if I need a solar pigeon guard?

If you’ve noticed pigeon nests, droppings, or debris around your solar panels, it’s a good indication that a solar pigeon guard might be necessary. If you’ve noticed pigeons around your neighbors’ homes, this is another indication that pigeons are on their way to your roof.  If you’re unsure, a professional can inspect your system and recommend the best solution.

6. How long does a solar pigeon guard last?

A well-installed solar pigeon guard can last for many years, protecting your solar panels from bird-related issues. The materials used are durable and designed to withstand the elements, ensuring long-lasting protection for your system. At Wash Me Solar, we have a lifetime guarantee on our pigeon guard.

This blog is originally published here: https://www.washmesolar.com/keep-it-clean-how-a-solar-pigeon-guard-improves-solar-panel-efficiency/