Keep Birds Away From Solar Panels - Amazing Solutions 2024

Summary

This video explores the surprising impact of birds on solar panels, causing damage and reducing energy production by up to 30%. It offers various solutions, from bird netting and spikes to high-tech ultrasonic deterrents and innovative brush systems like Evo 2.0. The video also suggests routine cleaning and professional bird control services to protect solar investments while being bird-friendly.

Takeaways

• 🐦 Birds are attracted to solar panels for nesting due to shelter, protection, and warmth.
• 💩 Bird droppings can decrease energy production by up to 30%.
• 🔥 Overheating and potential short circuits can occur from waste buildup under panels.
• 🕊 Installing bird netting or mesh can prevent birds from nesting under panels.
• 🚫 Bird spikes are an effective, non-harmful way to deter birds from landing on panels.
• 🎶 Ultrasonic bird deterrence uses high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans to keep birds away.
• 🦉 Fake owl controls with flashing eyes and alarms can scare birds away from solar panels.
• 🇮🇹 An Italian company, Eal Gum, offers the Evo 2.0 solution with brushes to prevent bird nesting.
• 🌡️ The Evo brush design improves heat dissipation and rainwater drainage under panels.
• 🧹 Routine cleaning and inspection can prevent significant issues caused by bird droppings and nesting.
• 👨‍🔧 Calling in bird control professionals can provide customized solutions for specific PV setups.

Q & A

How much can bird droppings decrease energy production of solar panels?

Bird droppings can decrease energy production by as much as 30%.

What is the most severe damage caused by birds to solar panels?

The most severe damage occurs beneath the panels where dry and organic waste can build up, leading to overheating and potential short circuits which could even result in fires.

Why are birds attracted to solar panels?

Birds are attracted to solar panels because they provide perfect shelter for nesting, protection from the weather and predators, and the warmth generated by the panels makes them cozy spots.

What are some problems caused by birds nesting under solar panels?

Birds nesting under solar panels can cause physical damage by pecking or scratching the panel surface, reduce efficiency with droppings, and potentially lead to fires due to overheating.

How can bird netting or mesh help with bird problems on solar panels?

Installing bird netting or mesh around the solar array creates a barrier that prevents birds from accessing the space beneath the panels where they typically like to nest.

What are the potential downsides of using bird netting or mesh?

Using bird netting or mesh can have bad impacts on air flow and heat dissipation of solar panels.

Can bird spikes be used on solar panels and how do they work?

Yes, bird spikes can be used on solar panels. They deter birds by placing spikes around the edges of the panels, making it impossible for birds to land without causing them any harm.

What is ultrasonic bird deterrence and how is it used for solar panels?

Ultrasonic bird deterrence devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to birds but inaudible to humans. This is a noninvasive and eco-friendly way to keep birds away from solar panels.

What is the fake owl control method for protecting solar panels from birds?

Fake owl control involves using a device that mimics the appearance of an owl with flashing eyes and a scary alarm to scare birds away from the solar panels.

What is the Evo 2.0 solution by Eal Gum and how does it prevent bird nesting?

The Evo 2.0 solution features specialized brushes that fit between the underside of the panels and the roof. The knurled bristles provide enhanced grip and allow for better heat dissipation, improved rainwater drainage, and block birds and debris from entering beneath the solar arrays.

What routine maintenance is recommended to prevent bird-related issues on solar panels?

Routine cleaning and inspection of solar panels can help remove bird droppings and nesting materials before they cause significant issues.

What should one do if birds continue to be a problem despite trying various solutions?

If birds continue to be a problem, it is advised to call in professionals who specialize in bird control services. They can assess the situation and implement customized solutions that suit the specific PV setup.