In previous blogs, we have mentioned the endless benefits of solar panels and their ability to reduce your energy bills and help the planet. However, there is another group feeling the benefits of the rising use of solar panels. From pigeons and seagulls to doves and sparrows, our feathered friends are quickly turning into foe as they live under and around our solar panels rent-free. They are the worst possible tenants you could be so unfortunate to have.
But why do birds find solar panels so appealing?
The elevated position of the panels gives birds an excellent birds-eye-view to keep an eye on their surroundings for any potential predators and food. The cosy and protected sheltered space under the panels is also the perfect, warm nesting area for birds. All of these elements combined make solar panels a prime real estate opportunity for birds.
How Birds Can Damage Your Solar Panels
While birds may enjoy this new habitat, your solar panels certainly will not. While bird droppings may provide luck for some, if it accumulates on the panel surfaces, your solar system won’t be so lucky. Excessive bird droppings leads to reduced energy efficiency and permanent discoloration and damage.
But the problems don't stop there. Nesting materials, such as twigs and leaves can disrupt airflow and block sunlight from reaching the panels, greatly reducing their power output. As well as this, birds’ incessant pecking and scratching can damage the wiring and electrical components of your panels, potentially leading to short circuits and other malfunctions.
All of these issues together lead to sky-rocketing maintenance costs for yourself as you will need your panels cleaned and checked over more frequently. Therefore, the long-term cost savings provided by solar panels may not seem so appealing after all.
The Case for Bird Proofing
After seeing the multitude of ways birds can risk the performance and longevity of your solar panels, bird proofing them seems like a no-brainer.
Increase Energy Efficiency
By preventing birds from nesting or leaving their droppings on the panel surfaces, you can maintain maximum exposure to sunlight.
Cost Savings
The essential factor of well-functioning solar panels? Regular maintenance and cleaning. However, this can feel like a losing battle (as well as an expensive one!) when you are having to compete with bird droppings and nesting materials. With efficient deterrents, you can relax and enjoy the benefits of your solar panels, without the need for extensive maintenance.
Protecting Birds and the Environment
Not only is this new habitat a risk to your solar panels, it can also be deadly for birds. They can become trapped, injured or even killed if they come into contact with the electrical components or if they become entangled in the panels. Maintain the eco-friendly nature of your solar panels by protecting birds from the dangers of them.
Longer Lifespan of Your Solar Panels
The corrosive nature of bird droppings and the physical damage caused by nesting materials can significantly shorten the lifespan of your solar panels. Inject your solar panels with a new burst of life by bird proofing them.
What Does Bird Proofing Look Like
When it comes to protecting your solar panels, there are several proven strategies and products available.
Solar Panel Mesh
Solar panel mesh provides a physical barrier between birds and solar panels and is carefully fitted around the edges of your solar panels, so no birds can access your panels.
Bird Spikes
Alongside the solar panel mesh, bird spikes make it uncomfortable for birds to land or nest on the solar system, meaning they will have to look elsewhere to find their perfect home.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The most common way to protect your solar panels is through regular cleaning and maintenance. By evicting the birds through removing their nest and droppings, you will discourage them from returning.
Bird Proofing FAQs
- What are Common Bird Proofing Measures
There are several bird proofing solutions available, such as mesh barriers, spikes, repellent gels and regular cleaning. If you’re unsure which solution will be the most effective for your system, speak to a professional solar panel installer.
- How Much does Bird Proofing Cost
The price of a bird proofing solution varies depending on the size of your solar panels system and the state of the panels. At Project Heating Solutions, our technicians will assess your solar panel installation and provide you with a tailored quote based on which system best suits your needs.
- Are These Solutions Safe for Birds
Yes, the solutions we provide at Project Heating Solutions are all humane and safe for birds. We deter birds from nesting, without causing them any harm. If you want to go a step further in protecting the environment, some bird proofing solutions are also eco-friendly, such as bird nets made from biodegradable materials.
- How Long-lasting are Bird Proof Solutions
The lifespan of bird proofing solutions depends on which solution is in place, as some are more long-lasting than others and require less regular upkeep. Speak to a professional to find out which solution will best protect your solar panels for years to come.
Overview
Birds are now taking advantage of the ever-growing number of solar panels being installed around the UK. Take proactive steps to protect your solar panels and the local bird population by bird proofing your panels. You won’t regret it!
If you want to find out more about bird proofing solutions and which one is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Project Heating Solutions. We’d be happy to provide you with advice on the best steps to take to protect your solar panels.
