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Discover effective ways to prevent birds from damaging or nesting underneath your solar panels with various bird proofing options.
Solar panels are a fantastic way to harness clean energy and save on electricity bills. However, they can also attract unwelcome guests—pigeons and other birds. Birds nesting under your panels can cause damage and reduce efficiency, not to mention create a mess. Luckily, several bird proofing options can protect your investment. Here, we’ll explore some popular choices: SolaSkirt, chicken wire style netting, and SolarDek Bird Brush, along with their pros, cons, and cost differences.Understanding Why Birds Are a Problem for your Solar Panels
Birds can cause significant damage to your solar panels if not properly addressed. Pigeons, in particular, are known to build nests underneath solar panels, which can lead to a range of issues. Firstly, bird droppings can accumulate on your panels, reducing their efficiency. This buildup can also block sunlight, resulting in decreased energy production. Additionally, bird nests can cause damage to the wiring and components of your solar system.
Is it worth paying out for Bird Proofing?
Bird proofing your solar panels can be worthwhile for several reasons:- Prevents Damage: Stops birds from nesting under panels, reducing debris accumulation and potential damage to panels and wiring.
- Maintains Efficiency: Keeps panels clean from droppings and debris, ensuring optimal energy output.
Bird proofing may be more critical in areas with high bird populations or species that tend to nest under panels. However, It will be beneficial for any installation, to invest in bird proofing to maintain efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.
Assessing Your Options: Different Bird Proofing Methods Available
SolaSkirt
SolaSkirt is a specially designed barrier that surrounds the edges of your solar panels, preventing birds from accessing the area underneath. Made from durable aluminium, it provides a seamless look that integrates well with most solar installations.
Pros:
Aesthetic Appeal: SolaSkirt offers a clean, professional appearance that blends with your solar array.
Durability: Made from robust materials, it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Ease of Installation: Designed for quick and easy installation without damaging the panels.
Airflow: Solaskirt is fitted with a chimney as pictured above, to ensure appropriate airflow is maintained.
Cons:
Cost: SolaSkirt is typically more expensive than other bird proofing options.
Cost: SolaSkirt installed may cost between £1000 to £1300 for a typically sized residential installation depending on the panel configuration and how many arrays there are.
Find out how much SolaSkirt will cost on your array by calling us now!
Chicken Wire Style Netting
Chicken wire netting is a highly cost-effective method for bird proofing solar panels. It involves wrapping wire mesh around the panels to create a barrier. Solar companies will often throw this bird proofing option in for 'free', as it is so cheap, plus quick and easy to install.
Pros:
Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly options available.
Cons:
Aesthetic Impact: Chicken wire can look less appealing compared to other options.
Installation Complexity: Will require professional help to ensure it doesn’t damage the panels.
Durability: Quite quickly the wire can rust and degrade and become unclipped, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Effectiveness: Chicken wire netting does not effectively protect solar panels from nesting birds. In fact, pigeons have been known to bend the wire out of the way to create nests behind it, which can result in them becoming trapped. This may lead to an unpleasant situation and damage to both your panels and the surrounding area.
Cost: Typically, chicken wire netting may cost around £150 for materials, with additional costs for labour. At BJC Electrical & Solar, we don't install chicken wire bird proofing due the cons listed above.
SolarDek Bird Brush
SolarDek Bird Brush is a specially designed bird-proofing solution for solar panels. Comprising durable bristle strips, the system is installed around the perimeter of solar arrays to create an effective barrier against nesting birds and debris.
Pros:
Durability: Made from high-quality bristles that can withstand harsh weather conditions without losing effectiveness.
Flexibility: The brush design allows for easy adaptation to different panel configurations and roof types.
Ease of Installation: Quick to install, the system can be securely clipped or attached without the need for invasive drilling, preserving the integrity of your solar panels.
Non-Intrusive: The brush design is less visible than some alternatives and blends well with the panels.
Cons
Limited Lifespan: While durable, bristles may wear out, particularly in areas with strong winds or heavy bird activity.
Maintenance: Debris may become caught in the bristles, requiring occasional cleaning to maintain effectiveness.
Cost
The cost of SolarDek Bird Brush systems typically ranges from £400 to £700 installed, depending on the size of the solar array and complexity of the installation.
SolarDek Bird Brush provides a cost-effective and visually discreet option for keeping your solar panels protected from birds and debris, ensuring optimal performance.
Maintenance Tips: Ensuring Long-Term Protection for Your Solar Panels
While bird proofing methods can effectively protect your solar panels, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure their long-term protection. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Clean your solar panels regularly to prevent the buildup of bird droppings or debris. We offer one off cleans or an annual maintenance contract. If you'd like to learn more - get in touch today!
2. Trim nearby trees and branches that may provide birds with easy access to your solar panels. By reducing their perching options, you can discourage birds from getting too close to your system.
3. Inspect the bird proofing measures regularly to ensure they are still intact and functioning properly.
When it comes to protecting your solar panels from pigeons, you have several options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. SolaSkirt is the premium choice and what we at BJC Electrical & Solar recommend as the best choice for longevity and the greatest return on investment, offering high durability and a sleek look but at a higher price point.Chicken Wire style netting is the most cost-effective solution and usually what is offered for 'free' by solar installers, but can be less durable and aesthetically pleasing. Finally, SolarDek Bird Brush offers a good balance between cost, durability, and appearance, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the specific conditions of your solar installation. Investing in a good bird proofing system will help ensure that your solar panels remain efficient and effective for years to come.
