Solar panels have become a popular investment for homeowners looking for ways to reduce their energy bills. However, when getting solar panels installed you should consider ways you can protect them from possible damage such as pigeon-proofing.
Pigeon-proofing, also know as bird protection, is a great way to prevent your solar panels from being damaged from birds who
What Are Solar Panels?
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) systems, are a renewable technology designed to convert sunlight directly into electricity They do this by using the photovoltaic cells in the panels.
This electricity can then be used by appliances and devices in the home that require it. Alternatively, it can be stored using a solar battery to be used at a later time such as throughout the night when your panels aren’t generating any electricity.
Solar panels require sunlight to produce electricity, however, they don’t need direct sunlight so they can still produce some electricity on cloudy, rainy days.
What Are The Benefits of Installing Solar Panels?
Solar power is a clean, green way of heating your home as it is a renewable energy source. It can help reduce your energy bills by cutting your reliance on the national grid.
In addition, you can generate money by selling any excess electricity your panels have generated back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme.
By switching to solar power, you will be doing your part to tackle the climate crisis and help Scotland reach net zero.
What Is Pigeon Proofing For Solar Panels?
Pigeon proofing or bird protection is a protective barrier that stops pigeons and other birds from nesting under solar panels. There are different ways to protect your solar panels from birds including wire mesh, roof spikes or solar skirts.
Birds, especially pigeons, can cause significant damage to solar panels. This is because they tend to nest under the panels which can lead to pricey repairs and decreased efficiency.
Why Are Birds Attracted to Solar Panels?
Many birds are attracted to solar panels due to their warmth and shelter from the elements. It makes for a great set-up for any birds looking for somewhere to build their nest.
Why Should You Pigeon Proof Your Solar Panels?
If you have solar panels or are planning on getting them then you should consider installing bird protection.
Bird protection can be installed on existing panels but it is far easier to install it at the same time as your solar panels. This means your panels will be protected from any bird-related damage from day one, preventing the problem before it becomes one.
It is also important as it can ensure your solar PV system will last as long as possible too as it is an expensive but worthwhile investment. So, ensuring they are protected from any potential damage should be a priority.
If you are currently having pigeon problems then you should deal with the problem as soon as possible. The longer you leave it the bigger the problem will become. If you leave it too long, any birds under your panels can cause a substantial amount of damage.
Other Damage Birds Can Cause To Solar Panels
While bird protection can protect your solar panels from being damaged underneath, it won’t protect the top of your solar panels. Bird poo especially can cause problems for your solar panels.
Bird poo that has built up on solar panels can reduce their efficiency. To stop this from happening, you should clean your solar panels every once in a while. This will keep them working at their full potential.
Looking For Solar Panels?
If you are looking for solar panels you can get a free no obligation quote.
At Homeshield Scotland, we have been providing homeowners with ways to make their homes more energy efficient.
We have been installing solar panels, heat pumps and batteries in customers homes for a number of years.
Start your journey to a warmer, cheaper and green future!

