Solar panels are a great way to generate clean, reliable energy, but the area beneath can also attract birds, squirrels, mice and other small animals. If pests get under an array, they can build nests, leave deposits and harm electrical elements. By installing appropriate protective barriers, Illinois homeowners can continue to enjoy both safer and reduced unnecessary maintenance issues with their solar systems.
Birds and squirrels get under solar panels.
Solar panels are an efficient way to convert sunlight into electrical energy.Birds and squirrels get under solar panels.
Solar panels provide a covered area which keeps the animals safe from weather, wind and predators. Birds can nest in the space and squirrels and rodents can crawl under the panels and stay warm and concealed. Sadly, this secure area can also cause animals to be near vulnerable solar equipment.
Leaves, twigs and animal waste can pile up beneath the array, creating a nesting material. This buildup can, over time, obstruct drainage and present situations that can lead to roof and equipment issues. Proactive and regular inspection and prevention play an important role in the maintenance of a solar installation.
Critters can damage solar panels.
Solar panels are vulnerable to damage from critters.Critters can damage solar panels.
Solar panel critter guards are intended to form a barrier around the perimeter of the solar array. The barrier will keep animals out of the area under the panels, but will allow airflow and water to drain away.
An expertly installed guard will help keep exposed cables and other elements safe from animals. It also minimises the risk of nests and debris building up under the array. The system is installed around the panels and not on the active surface to avoid unnecessary hinderance of active surface by the system from sunlight reaching the panels.
Be proactive in preventing squirrel and rodent damage to your home.
In particular, squirrels and rodents can be a problem as they might chew on electric lines. Damaged cables can lead to system performance issues, electrical faults or costly repairs.
Squirrel protection helps to provide a barrier between animals and vulnerable wiring, leading to effective protection. Prevention is more practical than having to deal with nest sites, chewed cables or animal activity over and over once it starts to occur.
Any damage to the home should also be checked prior to installation of protective barriers. Blocking access to the area may not resolve an existing problem if animals have already used the area.
There are some indicators that you may need to protect your solar panels.
If you hear unusual noises from your roof, such as scratching or moving, it may be a sign of animal activity. Other materials, such as nesting materials, feathers, droppings, leaves or twigs can also be seen around the panels by the homeowner. Gaps around the solar array that can be seen are an easy access point for animals.
Unusual electrical performance is another red flag. These problems in the wiring of solar panels can be caused by animal activity, but can also be caused by many other electrical or equipment issues. Make sure the system is examined by a solar expert to determine the actual cause.
There are numerous reasons why Illinois homeowners should use a critter guard.
There are many reasons why homeowners should opt for a critter guard in Illinois.There are numerous reasons why Illinois homeowners should use a critter guard.
The seasons change throughout the year in Illinois and animals would naturally look for protected areas during cooler seasons. The prevention can be useful for homeowners who want to help preserve their investment by providing an attractive shelter for a solar array.
A solar critter guard can be used to help minimize access to the bottom of panels and nesting/chewing opportunities. Preventative protection can also minimise the need for clean up and risk of animal damage.
The barrier must be installed professionally since it must be secure around the solar array. Inadequate installation can create openings for pests to take advantage of, or disrupt access to and/or drainage in the system.
How to get a professional installation.
The process of installing a solar array normally starts with a survey of the solar array and its outer edges. The installer is able to see the possible spots for penetration and decides where the guard will be installed around the panels.
The protective mesh/barrier is then fastened around the array with an appropriate method. The objective is to stop animals from entering while providing adequate ventilation, drainage and access to the solar equipment.
Existing nests should be handled properly and/or damage should be repaired before the sealing of the area. This will help to ensure the protective system is addressing the root cause of the issue and not just the symptom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should sun panels be covered with critter guards?
They are not essential to all solar panel installations but may be beneficial as a preventive measure in areas where birds, squirrels and rodents often have access to the underside of solar panels. They minimise nesting and animal damage.
Do Squirrels bite through solar cables?
Yes. Rodents such as squirrels may gnaw through the cables under solar panels. Damaged wiring can cause issues with performance, lead to electrical problems or result in costly repairs.
Are solar panel guards an effect on solar efficiency?
A proper installation with a guard is around the perimeter of the solar array and does not over cover the surface of the panels. It is designed in a way that it is not accessible to animals, but allows good airflow and drainage.
Will birds not nest under a Critter Guard?
Yes. If it is fitted properly, a barrier can limit access to the area under the panels, making it difficult for the birds and other animals to nest in the area.
Should damaged wiring be repaired prior to installing a guard?
Yes. Prior to closure, the system should be checked for damage by animals and repaired, if needed. This will ensure the safety and operation of the solar system.
Conclusion
To safeguard a solar investment, the first step is to avoid problems. An expertly fitted critter barrier can help to deter birds, squirrels and rodents from getting under solar panels and minimize the potential for nesting, debris accumulation and cable damage. For Illinois homeowners seeking reliable solar system protection, Suns Up Solutions offers professional critter guard installation solutions to help ensure solar systems stay protected and functioning properly.
