How Much Does It Cost To Pigeon Proof Solar Panels?

People are increasingly turning to solar energy to power their homes and businesses, but one of the drawbacks of this renewable energy source is that it can be prone to damage from animals. In particular, pigeons have been known to cause a great deal of destruction when they get too close to solar panels.

Fortunately, there are a variety of measures you can take to protect your panels from these birds, and the costs associated with doing so will vary depending on the type of protection you install.

Why Should I Pigeon Proof Solar Panels?

The simple answer is to protect your investment.

Solar panels are not cheap, and if pigeons decide to make a nest on top of them, the damage they can do can be significant. Not only can the birds themselves cause physical damage to the panels, but their droppings can also lead to serious problems.

Pigeon droppings are highly acidic, and over time they can eat away at the protective coating on solar panel pv system, causing them to become less effective. In extreme cases, this can even lead to complete failure of the panel. In addition, the mess that pigeons leave behind can be extremely difficult (and expensive) to clean up.

Pigeoning proofing your solar panels is essential if you want to protect your investment and keep your panels working effectively for years to come. There are a number of different ways to do this, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.

One popular method is installing spikes or other deterrents on the panels. This will make it difficult for pigeons to land and will discourage them from trying to build a nest. Another option is to cover the panels with a wire mesh, which will also make it difficult for pigeons to access them.

Whatever method you choose, it’s important to take action now to protect your solar panels from pigeons. If you wait until they’ve already caused damage, it will be much more difficult (and expensive) to fix the problem. So don’t delay – take steps to pigeon-proof your panels today.

How Do Solar Panels Attract Pigeons?

Pigeons are attracted to solar panels because they can provide a safe, warm place to roost. This is especially true in cities where the grassy areas that pigeons prefer for nesting have been replaced with concrete and steel structures like buildings and solar arrays.

Additionally, these birds are drawn towards shiny reflective surfaces of photovoltaic cells since they often mistake them for bodies of water or food sources.

Birds may also use the high structure of the array as a perch from which they can survey their surroundings with ease. As such, it’s important that those with solar arrays take measures to protect them from these birds or risk expensive repairs or replacement costs down the road.

Do Pigeons Nest Under Solar Panels?

In short, yes. Pigeons are known to nest in the dark corners of solar panels, which can cause significant damage and reduce the efficiency of your system. This is why it’s important to take steps to protect your solar array from birds. Pigeons can be deterred by physical barriers, scare tactics, and sound deterrents.

How Much Does It Cost To Pigeon Proof Solar Panels?

The average cost of pigeon-proof solar panels is between £300 and £800.

This cost will vary depending on the size of the solar panel array and the type of protection chosen.

The most common type of solar panel protection is a physical barrier such as netting or spikes. These barriers can be purchased at most hardware stores or online.

Many companies that sell solar panels also sell protection for them. Installing physical barriers is usually a simple process and can be done by the homeowner.

If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. The cost of professional installation will be higher than if you did it yourself, but it will ensure that the job is done correctly.

It’s always best to get a few quotes from different companies offering pigeon proofing services before deciding – prices can vary significantly between different providers. If you do choose a pest control company make sure to check if their technicians are trained to British Pest Control Association qualifications for complete assurance.

The cost of installing pigeon proofing on solar panels can change in price depending on the size of the job, the materials used and the complexity of any repairs required. There may be some cost variations, that may affect the total, for example, If scaffolding is required because of the height of your property this could play a factor in the overall cost in the end. The way you have to look at it, it’s a long-term investment.

Should I Use a Pest Control Company Over a Solar Panel Company?

If you have a bird problem that is interfering with the performance of your solar system, it may be best to seek help from a professional pest control company.

They will be able to identify the culprits and take measures to remove them and prevent them from coming back.

Solar panel companies can also offer services such as cleaning your solar array and providing additional maintenance but may not be able to address underlying animal problems.

So depending on your situation, a pest control company may provide more comprehensive solutions for keeping birds away from your system.

Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Does Pigeon Proofing Solar Panels Work?

Yes, pigeon proofing solar panels can work.

By taking proactive steps like installing physical barriers around the system’s perimeter, employing scare tactics such as bird spikes or decoys, setting up motion-activated sprinklers, and utilising sound deterrents, you can help keep pigeons from getting too close to your solar array and minimize any potential damage that these birds may cause.

Also to add, investing in these protective measures will help ensure the longevity of your solar panels so you can maximize their efficiency for years to come. It’s important to realise however that no approach is guaranteed to be 100% effective at keeping pigeons away from your PV system so it’s important to remain vigilant when it comes to monitoring and maintaining its condition.

With regular maintenance and proper precautionary measures in place, you’ll be able to keep your solar array and any associated costs at a minimum.

Maintaining Your Solar Panels

As with any home system, maintenance is essential to keeping your solar panels in top condition. This means cleaning them regularly and ensuring there is no damage to the modules or wiring

To clean your panels safely, use a soft cloth and mild soap solution; do not use abrasive materials such as steel wool or power washers, as this can cause permanent damage. Depending on the climate you live in and how much dust accumulates on your panels, it may only need to be done once a year. However, if you notice any build-up of debris or dirt that could potentially reduce their efficiency then cleaning more frequently may be necessary.

You should also check for damage from time to time – look for cracks, warping, or other physical damage. If you notice any of these signs then contact a solar panel professional to assess the problem and repair it if needed.

Finally, make sure that your solar panels are optimally angled for the best efficiency. This may require some adjustments during seasonal changes when there is more or less sunlight due to the changing angle of the sun in the sky.

Top 5 Things To Do To Prevent Pigeons Before Spending Money On Pest Control

We have listed below some of the top five prevention methods for keeping pesky pigeons away:

1. Trim Back Trees, Foliage and Shrubs

Pigeons like to use overhanging branches and foliage as a refuge from predators, so it’s important to cut back any trees or shrubs that may provide them with access to your solar array. This will also reduce shadows that could affect the performance of your system.

Trimming trees and bushes near your solar array can help reduce the number of potential roosting spots for pigeons.

2. Cover Vents and Chimneys

Pigeons may try to use these openings as a place to nest or roost. Covering these openings can help to prevent pigeons from getting access to your house and remove any opportunity for them to come anywhere near your solar panels.

3. Clean Up Food Sources

Pigeons need a reliable food source in order to survive. To prevent them from coming around your solar array, make sure to keep the area surrounding it free of potential food sources like pet food, bird seed, and other scraps of food.

4. Relocate Nesting Sites

Pigeons will often nest in attics or other sheltered areas near your solar array. To help prevent them from coming back, make sure to fill any gaps and seal off entry points with steel wool or other materials so they can’t get in. It is also important to relocate their nesting sites away from the area.

5. Install Decoys

You can also install decoys like plastic owls and other birds of prey to scare away the pigeons. Make sure they are securely fastened and replaced if they become damaged or faded. You can also install High-pitched audio devices that emit ultrasonic sounds that are unpleasant for most birds and can be used to scare them away from your solar array.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to be vigilant in protecting your solar array from birds, including pigeons. Physical barriers and scare tactics can go a long way in keeping them away from your system. Additionally, regularly monitoring for signs of damage and utilizing sound deterrents can also help to ensure that your solar array is working efficiently. Taking the necessary steps to prevent birds from accessing your solar array can save you time and money in the long run.