Bird droppings on solar panels are more than just unsightly – they can significantly cut your system’s performance. When droppings accumulate, they form opaque patches on the glass that completely block sunlight in those areas. As one specialist notes, a layer of bird guano “can create a layer that obstructs sunlight, reducing the amount of energy absorbed”squeegeesquad.com. In other words, even small white splashes can translate to a noticeable power loss.
- Efficiency Loss: A single piece of bird waste over a cell can halve the current output of that panel section. If enough cells are shaded, overall array generation drops by several percent.
- Surface Damage: Bird droppings are acidic. Left baking in the sun, they can etch or corrode the glass and coatings. Over years, this can dull the panel.
- Health and Safety: Accumulated droppings can harbor bacteria and fungi. While the energy impact is primary, safety-minded cleaners also note the need to clean guano to prevent disease spread.
Image: Solar panels splattered with multiple bird droppings. Alt text: “Solar panels with white bird droppings creating opaque spots on the surface.”
Experts emphasize prompt cleaning of droppings. Left unchecked, these splatters cast persistent shadows and reduce output. One source even warns that build-up of debris like bird waste “can impact solar panel efficiency” and lead to repairs if not cleanedrentokil-hygiene.co.uk. The bottom line: bird droppings equal lost energy and risk to your panels. Routine cleanings should include removal of any guano. Installing simple bird deterrents (spikes or nets) can also help keep panels clear.
Call to Action: Don’t let birds steal your sunshine. Contact a certified solar panel cleaner (via Find a Cleaner) to safely remove droppings and restore your array’s output.
