Switching to solar is one of the best ways to save on electricity costs while creating a sustainable future. Despite that, solar panels are still not wildlife-proof.
Solar panels attract birds, squirrels, and raccoons that can often get underneath them, making these creatures a significant problem regarding your investment’s efficiency and life. That is why critter guards are the solution for protecting your solar system.
In this article, we will discuss five essential ways that critter guards protect your solar panels so you can avoid expensive repairs and help them work for a decade or more.
What Are Critter Guards and Why Are They Important?
Critter guards are robust barriers built using materials such as PVC-coated steel mesh to create a protective ring around the edges of the solar panel. Their main job is to stop animals and debris from getting under the panels, where they can create damage or obstructions.
Why are they so important? Critter guards help improve your solar panels’ safety and overall efficiency and significantly reduce the risks and potential damages otherwise done to the system.
Whether upgrading your current system or installing new ones, critter guards allow you to rest assured, knowing your investment is safe.
Do you wish to enhance your understanding of critter guards, their functioning, and their need for solar installation?
Check out our blog, “Why You Need Critter Guard™ for PV Systems,” and discover detailed insights into why this small addition can make a big difference in your solar investment.
- Fact: Did you know that wildlife interference is a leading cause of solar panel damage? In a Renewable Energy World study, close to 12% of residential solar systems have problems with critters that cost thousands of dollars to fix.
When Should You Consider Installing Critter Guards?
Consider adding critter guards while installing your solar panels. However, if your system is already in place and you’ve seen wildlife signs such as nests or chewed wires, there is still time to add them.
Consider installing critter guards if:
- There are many birds, squirrels, or raccoons in your area.
- You saw animals going to your roof every day.
- Things like leaves, twigs, and other debris usually build up under your panels.
- You have had problems with animals ruining your property in the past.
The sooner you take action, the less likely damage will occur, and your solar system will continue to function efficiently for years.
- Fact: According to data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), messed wiring and nests account for 35% of reported solar panel efficiency issues.
5 Ways Critter Guards Protect Your Solar Panels
Critter guards protect your solar system in multiple ways. Here are the five primary ways they protect your money:
- Prevents Nests and Obstructions
- Protects Wiring from Chewing Damage
- Reduces Risk of Short Circuits and Fires
- Preserves Panel Efficiency
- Protects the Aesthetic and Value of Your Home
1. Prevents Nests and Obstructions
Nesting birds and other wildlife is one of the problems that unprotected solar panels can create. The space between panels is seen as a safe place for critters to build their homes.
Therefore, you need to prevent nests by all means necessary.
- Shaded sunlight: Twigs and leaves as nesting material can remove the sun from photovoltaic cells, lowering energy harvesting.
- Retaining water: Debris can trap moisture, which can cause damage to the roof or rust on panel frames.
- Health risks: Birds that nest can bring in parasites or excrement that are dangerous for humans.
By installing critter guards, you keep debris and wildlife out of your solar panels, ensuring that they operate at peak efficiency and retain the integrity of your roof.
2. Protects Wiring from Chewing Damage
Rodents such as squirrels are infamous for munching on solar panel wires, and their gnawing can create many expensive problems. The wiring is an essential component of the operation of your solar panels, and any compromise can lead to costly repairs.
How critter guards help:
- Do not let rodents reach wires.
- Prevent disconnections that can lead to system failure.
- Avoid the expensive downtime caused by damaged cables.
Critter guards help protect your solar system, so you won’t have to worry about animals chewing through critical components.
- Fact: According to Fixr, replacing a single solar panel averages $300 to $500. If the solar cells are damaged or the glass is severely cracked, a single panel may need to be replaced. With critter guards in place, you don’t have to worry about animals chewing through critical components of your solar system.
3. Reduces Risk of Short Circuits and Fires
Exposed wires and garbage buildup can create a dangerous environment, increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Fires may occur when combustible materials, such as dry leaves, are combined with faulty wiring, most frequently caused by chewing or weather exposure.
Here’s how Critter Guards help in fire prevention:
- Prevent access to wires, minimizing the probability of exposure.
- Keep dirt from building up and catching fire.
- Make your house safer for your loved ones.
While solar panels are safe, critter guards provide additional protection to prevent rare but dangerous events, such as an electrical fire.
- Fact: Slick Tools LLC’s survey reveals that a homeowner in the USA who has a PV system installed could incur animal damage costs of $855 (net present value) over the life of a solar system if one does not install an animal guard.
4. Preserves Panel Efficiency
Solar panels can produce only the maximum energy when they receive direct sunlight. The presence of animals and debris underneath the panels can decrease efficiency.
Here are some critical advantages of critter guards for efficiency:
- Avoid shading the panels with nests or debris.
- Manage energy output at an optimal level.
- Limit the frequency of cleaning or maintenance-type activities.
If the solar panels do their best, you will get the most out of your investment, and critter guards help.
5. Protects the Aesthetic and Value of Your Home
Solar panels add significant value to your property, but this value can decrease if they’re damaged or surrounded by nests and debris. The appearance of your system matters, especially if you’re planning to sell your home in the future.
How critter guards enhance aesthetics:
- Prevent unsightly nests or debris buildup.
- Keep your roof looking clean and professional.
- Preserve the value of your solar installation.
Installing critter guards is an investment in the longevity of your solar system and in maintaining your home’s curb appeal.
Why Choose Solar Medix for Your Critter Guard Needs?
Solar Medix believes safeguarding investment is equally important. We offer high-quality critter guard installations customized to fit your system.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Well-trained technicians: Our years of experience allow us to complete flawless installations without affecting the panels’ functionality.
- Premium materials: Our critter guards are made from long-lasting materials and can withstand the weather without degradation.
- Comprehensive support: From initial consultation to post-installation maintenance, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Take action before critters cause damage. Contact Solar Medix today to learn how our critter guard solutions can protect your solar panels and give you peace of mind.
