Pigeons and other birds can be a major nuisance for solar installations. Their droppings and nesting material corrode and damage equipment. Their waste could clog and block panels, hence reducing efficiency overall. Installing proper pigeon deterrents is important to avoid losses and expensive repairs.
Pigeons and Solar Panels
Pigeons, seagulls and other bird species often view solar panel installations as ideal shelters and nesting sites. The warm, protected spaces underneath solar panels resemble the rocky crevices and cliffs that birds naturally nest in. Additionally, the height of solar panels provides a vantage point for birds to survey for food and predators. Significant amounts of corrosive bird droppings can build up on solar panels. They then block sunlight absorption and diminish power output over time. Birds also bring all kinds of debris to build nests, which can clog and limit airflow around critical solar components. Troublesome bird invasion and nesting activity means costly cleaning and reduced efficiency for solar panel systems. Pigeon proofing solar panels is essential to avoid these bird-related problems.
Preventing Pigeon Nesting
The most effective solution for avoiding issues with pigeons nesting under solar panels is to proactively deter them from settling there in the first place. Installing preventative measures creates an inhospitable environment that dissuades nesting behaviour. You can prevent any landing and perching by putting stainless steel spike strips along panel edges and framework.
Stainless steel pigeon spike strips feature sharp, narrow points that are safe for humans, but uncomfortable for birds to perch on. Attaching spike strips along solar panel edges, frames and support structures blocks pigeons from settling there.
Plastic bird netting provides a lightweight barrier that keeps birds out of protected spots underneath solar panels. Go for UV-resistant high-density polyethylene netting with small holes that allow sunshine through but exclude birds. Angling solar panel mounts so they tilt slightly downwards also prevents bird nesting debris from accumulating. You may invest some money on these measures, but the savings will be significant over time.
Regular Maintenance
Even after implementing the measures to keep pigeons away from your solar panels, regular inspections and maintenance is crucial to preserve their effectiveness. Plastic netting and steel spike strips can accumulate dirt and debris over time, hence a reduced ability to keep birds away. A biannual cleaning schedule is a starting point for maximum pigeon expulsion on the solar panels.
Check for any bent spikes or holes in netting which birds could exploit for access. You can use a pressure washer every 6 months to wash away troublesome nesting materials on solar equipment. Be sure to safely re-secure any dislodged hardware. The nearby environment is also a key factor in keeping destructive pigeons away. Trimming back nearby foliage eliminates bird nesting sites outside the solar array perimeter. Staying vigilant with these recurring maintenance measures means solar panels operate at peak efficiency without the risk of invasion. Investing in regular upkeep saves substantially on cleaning costs and functional issues from enduring pigeon problems down the road.
Conclusion
Pigeons nesting under solar panels can cause expensive damage and efficiency issues if left unchecked. Implementing preventative measures like bird spikes, nets and panel tilting creates an uncomfortable environment for them. Staying vigilant with regular inspection and maintenance ensures these measures remain functionable over the long term.
