Bird Droppings and Debris

Pigeon droppings or other debris accumulating on a specific area of a solar panel can cause shading, leading to the development of hotspots in those covered cells. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent this.

Solar Panel Pigeon Proofing and cleaning

Solar Panel Pigeon Proofing (Underneath the Panels):

Physical Barriers (Most Effective): The primary goal for solar panels is to prevent pigeons from nesting underneath them, as this area provides shelter and is often difficult to access for cleaning.
- Solar Panel Mesh/Bird Guard: This is considered one of the most effective solutions. A wire or plastic mesh is installed around the perimeter of the solar panel array, blocking access underneath. Specialized clips are used to attach the mesh to the solar panel frames without drilling or damaging the panels.
Common causes of Hot Spots occurring include, Bird droppings, Algae, Lichen, Cement dust etc
Fire Risk (in extreme cases): While rare, severe and sustained hotspots can potentially create a fire hazard. what to know more?

Hot Spots

A hot spot occurs when the current generated in your solar panels, is excessively forcing current into the area of the solar panel that is shaded and it leads to the shaded cell heating up dramatically and a hot spot occurring.

In the case of Bird droppings for example, the intense heat of the sun can cause the acidic bird droppings to burn into the glass of your solar panels, this in turn creating a hot spot formation.

Nesting

Pigeons are attracted to solar panels because they offer shelter, shade, and a view, making them ideal nesting sites. While pigeons don't directly damage the panels themselves, their droppings can hinder efficiency and cause erosion of wires and panel surfaces.

Exclusion

Physical Barrier: The thin wires, typically made of stainless steel and often coated with nylon for durability and discretion, are strung between a series of low-profile posts. This creates a physical obstacle that birds find difficult to navigate and land on comfortably.

Unstable Landing: The key to the effectiveness of bird wire systems is the instability they create. When a bird attempts to land on the wires, the wires flex and move due to their tension and sometimes the incorporation of springs within the system. This prevents the bird from gaining a secure footing, making the ledge an unwelcome place to rest.

Solar Panel Cleaning

: Invest in high-quality equipment:

Purified Water System: Essential for streak-free cleaning. Consider RO/DI systems.
Water Fed Poles: Allow you to clean panels safely from distance and apply water
Soft Brushes: Specifically designed for solar panels to avoid scratching.
Solar Panel Surfactant Soap: Choose a non-ionic, pH-neutral cleaner.
Use Low Pressure: The key is to use a low-pressure setting on your hose. Avoid strong, direct streams of water, as these can potentially damage the delicate anti-reflective coatings, seals, and wiring of the panels over time. Think of a gentle shower rather than a forceful jet.
Wide Spray Pattern: Opt for a wide spray pattern rather than a concentrated jet. This distributes the water pressure over a larger area, reducing the risk of localized damage.

Using purified water is a smart choice because it lacks the minerals found in tap water that can leave behind streaks and residue, further reducing efficiency.

The addition of a solar panel surfactant soap is also a good practice. These specialized soaps are designed to:

Loosen and lift stubborn grime: Things like bird droppings (a common issue, especially with pigeon problems , pollen, Dust pollution, and even insect residue can adhere strongly to the panel surface.
Rinse cleanly: Quality solar panel soaps are formulated to rinse away completely with purified water, leaving no film or residue that could block sunlight.
Be safe for the panels: They are typically non-corrosive and won't damage the delicate coatings or materials of the solar panels.

The goal is to remove all that residue effectively. Even a thin layer of dirt or grime can significantly reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cells, leading to a noticeable drop in energy production. Regular, thorough cleaning with the right methods helps ensure your solar panels operate at their optimal efficiency and maximize your investment.

It's a necessary but sometimes unpleasant task, especially when dealing with accumulated bird droppings or other stubborn debris. But the payoff of increased energy generation makes it worthwhile.

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