If you are environmentally conscious or are looking to bring down the cost of energy, solar energy is a good choice. Unfortunately, the solar panels usually attract unlikely visitors: pigeons. Pigeons can scratch the surfaces of the panels with their feet or defecate on them, reducing both efficiency and durability.
It is important that you protect the solar panel with the right gear during installation to keep these adorable birds at bay. Let’s explore the options and how to select the best ones for your installation.
What are the Risks that Pigeons Bring?
When pigeons settle on your solar panel, they cause several issues that may ultimately negatively affect it. These issues include:
- Safety hazards: Pigeon droppings may accumulate on the panel. Over time, they may become hard and easy to ignite. They may also lead to electrical hazards.
- Reduced efficiency: Every inch covered by pigeon poop does not get sunlight to produce electricity. This leads to decreased energy production.
- Damage to panels: Bird droppings are highly acidic. With time, they may eat away the protective coatings on solar panels, leading to lasting damage.
Common Pigeon Proofing Methods
You should invest in a good pigeon deterrent to keep the birds at bay. There are several solar panels pigeon proofing options available on the market, from which you can choose the ideal one. Here are the popular ones:
Mesh Barriers
A mesh barrier makes it uncomfortable for the pigeons to rest on while allowing sunlight to reach the solar panels. They are installed on top of the solar panels and can be used with other barriers. This method requires little monitoring and is very effective.
Spikes and Physical Deterrents
Spikes and other physical deterrents are made to make it uncomfortable for pigeons to rest on or nearby the solar panels. The small spike does not impale the birds, but its prick is highly uncomfortable. They are safe and do not harm the birds.
Ultrasonic and Light-Emitting Devices
Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds beyond the hearing spectrum of human beings. They are bothersome to pigeons but cannot be heard by humans. Therefore, they do not cause noise pollution.
On the other hand, light-emitting devices release flashes or reflect sunlight onto the pigeons as they approach the solar panels. They become a visual disturbance that makes the birds not want to stay nearby. A solar battery powers their rotation.
What to Check When Making a Choice
When deciding on the methods for pigeon proofing solar panels, you should keep in mind the following factors:
Effectiveness: Go for a method that offers the best solution for preventing pigeons from accessing your solar panels. If you have a large bird population in the area, consider physical deterrents like mesh and spikes as compared to light and sound devices.
Durability: Go for brands that make pigeon deterrents that are able to withstand foul weather. Go for rust-resistant solutions and reinforced plastic that can rust for many years. They may cost a little more, but they are well worth the cost.
Aesthetics: Since the pigeon proof methods will be visible to everybody, it is important to go for aesthetically appealing ones. Choose a method that is not very conspicuous or a colour that blends with the rest of the roof. This way, your house maintains its aesthetic quality.
Protect your expensive power generators from pigeon damage as soon as you install them. Pick a method that best serves your needs and is effective from the list above.
