Close-up of birds sitting on solar panels on tiled roof of house, solar panels dirty with pigeon droppings.
Howdy folks! Today we need to talk about an important issue for solar panel owners: critter control and prevention. With winter on the horizon here in Texas, squirrels, birds, raccoons, and other pesky varmints are all looking for a place to nestle in for hibernation. Believe it or not, that can include your rooftop photovoltaic system! But do not fear, with proper solar critter guards we can keep those furry freeloaders from damaging your equipment.
With over a decade of experience, we have seen all kinds of critter encounters on Texas homes with rooftop solar panels. Squirrels and birds love to nest in the nooks of solar module frames. Chewing and nesting behaviors can destroy wiring, cause electrical arcing dangers, and reduce power output. Raccoons and possums are also attracted to the warmth of rooftop panels but can actually fall through weakened areas in the roof from excessive walking. We’ve repaired major leaks and structural damage from these heavy creatures traipsing over solar systems. Rodents like mice and rats will chew through exposed DC wires to nest inside equipment control boxes. This can cause complete system shutdowns, shock hazards, and fires. Not to mention the ruined insulation and conductors needing replacement.
1. Remove attractants: Ensure overhanging trees are trimmed back so branches don’t allow access. Install roof ridge caps and seal any gaps so animals can’t enter the attic. Remove exterior nests and food debris that draws pests.
2. Add physical barriers: Shield wiring with metal conduit. Enclose and seal off the underside of panels. Install vent covers on control boxes. Apply bird repellent gel along frame edges. Construct simple wooden or wire mesh screens between panel rows. Physical blocks are very effective deterrents.
3. Contact the pros: Your best protection is having our team at North Texas Solar perform professional critter guard installations and preventative maintenance. We use industrial-grade materials for long-lasting defense. Unique solutions can be customized to match your home and keep those pesky varmints from damaging your system.
An ounce of prevention goes a long way when it comes to avoiding major solar problems and expensive repairs from wildlife intrusions. Be proactive and schedule a check of your PV system for any critter risks. Watch for chewed wires, nesting materials, compromised roof areas, and unwanted critter dirt or droppings around the solar array and roofline. If identified early, most critter issues can be resolved with some added protections before equipment is compromised. But left unaddressed, creatures tunneling under panels and chewing through wires can cause thousands in damage and power losses. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
Protect your investment by having North Texas Solar install high quality critter guard solutions designed specifically for your home. We can also fully clean and seal your system as part of our solar panel cleaning service to deter nesting and make it less inviting to pests.
Don’t let wild critters jeopardize your solar panels and peace of mind. Call North Texas Solar today for a quote on proactive critter guards, maintenance, and repairs if needed. Let our solar pros keep those varmints in check so you can maximize energy savings!
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