Pigeons often love to nest underneath solar panels making them difficult to access and clean. This can lead to dirt and debris buildup, resulting in decreased energy efficiency and costly repairs.
Fortunately, there are ways to pigeon-proof your solar panels, enabling them to operate at their fullest potential and reducing the need for ad-hoc expensive maintenance and replacement.
Pigeon proofing involves placing physical barriers around the solar panels to prevent birds from accessing the system.
Why Pigeon Proofing is Necessary?
Pigeon proofing is an important step for anyone who has invested in solar panels. Pigeons are notorious for finding shelter under solar panels, building nests, and seeking refuge. This seemingly harmless behavior can lead to several significant problems.
Firstly, pigeons and other birds often leave droppings on the surface of the panels. These droppings are acidic and can corrode the panel’s surface over time, leading to potential damage that can affect the panel’s performance and reduce its lifespan. The droppings also block sunlight from reaching the solar cells, which reduces the overall efficiency of the panels, leading to lower energy output and, consequently, less savings on electricity bills.
Moreover, the nests built under the panels can create blockages and damage the wiring. Pigeons tend to peck at wires, and their nests can become a fire hazard, especially when they accumulate around electrical components. The noise and mess associated with pigeons can also be a nuisance, particularly in residential areas.
Bird Proofing Options
There are several bird proofing options available to homeowners and businesses, depending on the size and type of birds present.
Each proofing option has its own advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to assess the situation before selecting a method.
- Bird Mesh: Bird mesh is a fine mesh netting designed to keep birds away from solar panels. Bird mesh is lightweight and flexible, which makes it easy to install over the panels. It also offers a discreet solution that won’t affect the overall aesthetic of the roof. However, bird mesh can be expensive and requires regular maintenance to ensure it is still effective.
- Bird Spikes: Bird spikes are a more permanent solution, designed to keep birds away from solar panels. The spikes create a physical barrier that birds cannot cross. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but can be unsightly and difficult to remove once installed.
- Bird Netting: Bird netting is a heavy-duty netting designed to keep birds away from solar panels. It is much stronger than bird mesh and can protect the solar panels from larger birds. However, bird netting is more expensive than mesh and requires more maintenance over time.
- Electric Bird Repellents: Electric bird repellents are a more extreme solution, designed to keep birds away from solar panels. The repellents use sound, light, and other deterrents to scare away birds. They are effective, but can be costly and require regular maintenance.
When selecting a bird-proofing option, it’s important to consider the size and type of birds present, as well as the overall cost of the solution.
Cost Considerations Of Bird Proofing Solar PV Systems
The cost of bird proofing can vary depending on the size of the solar panel array, the type of bird proofing option chosen, and other factors such as the complexity of the job and the materials involved.
For homeowners, the cost of bird mesh is relatively low, with a roll of mesh usually costing around £50 to £100. Bird spikes are also relatively inexpensive, with a pack of spikes costing around £25. Bird netting is slightly more expensive, with a net typically costing between £150 and £200. Electric bird repellents can be quite costly, with a unit costing upwards of £500.
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It is important to do a cost comparison of bird proofing options to determine which option will offer the most effective protection at the lowest cost.
For example, bird mesh is the most cost-effective option for covering large areas, while bird spikes are ideal for protecting small areas. Bird netting is the best option for protecting against larger birds, while electric bird repellents are the most effective solution for deterring all birds.
It is also important to consider the cost of regular maintenance to ensure continued protection from birds. The cost of regular maintenance will vary depending on the type of birdproofing chosen and the extent of the job.
For example, checking for bird activity and cleaning bird droppings may be included in the cost of the job, while additional treatments such as using bird repellents may cost extra.
By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to invest in pigeon proofing for your solar panels.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Pigeon Proofing
The cost of pigeon-proofing your solar panels can vary widely based on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and budget appropriately.
- Size of the Solar Panel System: The size of your installation is one of the most significant factors influencing the cost. Larger systems require more materials, such as mesh or spikes, and more labor to install these deterrents. A larger surface area also means more time will be needed for the installation, which can increase labor costs.
- Type of Pigeon Proofing Solution: Different pigeon proofing methods have varying costs. Mesh is a popular choice because it effectively blocks pigeons from accessing the area under the panels. However, the cost of mesh installation can vary depending on the quality and type of mesh used. Spikes are another option, which may be less expensive but might not offer as comprehensive protection as mesh.
- Accessibility of the Roof: The height and accessibility of your roof can also affect the cost. If your roof is difficult to access or requires special equipment for safe installation, this will increase labor costs. Additionally, if your panels are installed on a steep or complex roof, more time and effort will be required to install the pigeon-proofing, which can further drive up the cost.
- Location and Professional Services: The cost of pigeon proofing can also vary depending on your location within the UK. Prices for labor and materials can differ between regions, and the availability of professional services may impact the cost. In areas with fewer service providers, the cost might be higher due to limited competition.
Maintenance Of Bird Proofing Protection
In addition to regularly checking and cleaning the bird proofing system, it is important to also inspect the roof for any potential access points that birds may be able to use to get onto the roof. This includes looking for any loose shingles, gaps, or cracks in the roof where birds may be able to squeeze into. Any potential access points must be sealed to ensure that birds are not able to access the roof.
In order to prevent birds from roosting on the solar panels, it is important to regularly trim trees and other foliage that may be near the solar panel area. This will help to remove any potential roosting spots for birds and will make it more difficult for them to access the roof.
It is also important to regularly inspect the gutter system and remove any debris and leaves that have accumulated to ensure that it is functioning properly and is not causing any blockages. If the gutter system is not in good condition, then it can lead to water pooling on the roof and creating ideal conditions for birds to inhabit.
Finally, it is important to regularly clean the solar panels to ensure that they are free of dirt, dust, and bird droppings. This will keep the panels working efficiently and prevent any damage that may be caused by a buildup of dirt and debris.
Long-Term Savings and Benefits
Investing in pigeon-proofing for your solar panels may seem like an additional expense, but it can lead to significant long-term savings and benefits.
- Protection of Investment: Solar panels are a substantial investment, and protecting them from potential damage is essential. Pigeon proofing helps safeguard this investment by preventing pigeons from nesting and causing damage to the panels. This protection ensures that your solar panels continue to function efficiently, allowing you to maximise the return on your investment.
- Reduced Maintenance Costs: Without pigeon-proofing, you might spend more on maintenance and cleaning. Pigeon droppings and nests can accumulate quickly, requiring frequent cleanings to maintain the efficiency of your solar panels. By installing pigeon-proofing measures, you reduce the need for these cleanings, saving you money on maintenance costs over time.
- Increased Lifespan of Solar Panels: Pigeon proofing helps maintain your solar panels’ efficiency and extends their lifespan. By preventing corrosive droppings and nests from damaging the panels, you can avoid the need for costly repairs or replacements. This extension of your panels’ lifespan means you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy for longer without additional investments.
Professional Installation Of Bird Proofing Measures
When it comes to bird proofing solar panels, a professional installation is the way to go. Professional bird proofing services can provide an effective and lasting solution to keep birds away from your solar panels. They have the expertise and knowledge to assess the situation and provide the best bird proofing solution for your particular needs.
In addition, you should ask the professional bird proofing company about the cost of the services they provide. Request a detailed estimate that outlines the services, materials and labor costs. Make sure to ask about any additional charges such as for travel expenses or disposal fees.
Finally, ask the professional bird proofing service for a sample of their work. Request to see before and after photos of a job they’ve completed so that you can get an idea of their workmanship.
DIY Installation
For those willing to take on the task of bird proofing their own solar panels, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before beginning the project. It’s important to understand what materials are needed and how much time and energy will be required to complete the project. For DIY installation, only high-quality and durable bird proofing materials should be purchased.
When selecting bird proofing materials for a DIY installation, it’s important to consider the size of the bird that needs to be deterred. Bird mesh, spikes, netting, and electric bird repellents are all effective in keeping birds from accessing solar panels, however, the size of the holes in the mesh, the height of the spikes, the thickness of the netting, and the frequency of the electric repellents should all be taken into consideration when making a purchase.
Once the bird proofing materials have been purchased, the next step is to install them. Bird mesh is the easiest of the bird proofing materials to install. It can be simply stretched and attached to the side of the solar panel using sturdy screws and bolts. Bird spikes are also easy to install, however, they require more precise measurements to ensure that they are installed correctly and securely.
Bird netting can be more difficult to install as it requires a sturdy framework in order to be properly secured. Electric bird repellents should only be installed by a professional as they require a certified electrician to properly install them.
In addition to the installation of bird proofing materials, it’s also important to make sure that there are no cracks or openings in the solar panel that birds can use to access the panel. The gaps should be sealed with silicone caulk or other weather-resistant materials.
Should You Bird Proof Your Solar PV System?
When it comes to pigeon proofing solar panels, there are various considerations to keep in mind. Pigeon proofing solar panels is an important measure to take as it can help prevent damage and further deterioration. Additionally, it can help maximize the efficiency of the solar panels which can lead to a greater energy savings.
Regular maintenance is key. Checking for bird activity and preventing birds from accessing solar panels should be done on a regular basis. It is also important to periodically inspect the bird proofing option to ensure it is still in good condition.
In summary, pigeon proofing solar panels is an important measure to take in order to maximize the efficiency and longevity of solar panel systems. There are various bird proofing options available, as well as professional and DIY installation options.
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