Solar panels are a major upgrade for homes in Phoenix.
They work brilliantly in the heat of the desert and cut energy bills significantly.
But they also unintentionally create a paradise for pigeons. They think your pricey investment is a luxury summer resort.
Along with the birds come noise and corrosive mess, which causes serious damage to the solar equipment.
Frustrated neighbors are fighting back against the multiplying flocks and mounting damage. How are they reclaiming their roofs?
How a solar array becomes a pigeon hotel
Arizona is known for its intense heat in summer, and in Phoenix, temperatures regularly reach over 100 degrees during the season.
For pigeons, it’s a matter of survival to find a cool place to escape the heat. And your solar panels meet this need perfectly.
The gap between the panels and the roof creates a grand, shady sanctuary by blocking the desert sun.
But that’s not the only benefit. The space offers protection from several bird hazards: high winds, rainstorms, avian predators like hawks, and hungry cats.
There’s also a ‘browse’ bonus, because from this view, the flocks can easily spot food and water.
These come in the form of your trash bins, bird feeders, and irrigation systems.
It starts slowly, with maybe one or two birds visiting your array. But before you know it, the situation is now an infestation.
The pigeons have discovered their ultimate environment. But what happens when they overstay their welcome and refuse to be evicted?
Pigeons vs. panels: Costly solar equipment under siege
Investing in a solar power system is an expensive move.
Pigeons are messy houseguests, and they always leave their mark. They’re not picky about where they leave their droppings, and this is harmful for several reasons.
Their droppings block the sunlight, which reduces your panels’ output. In some cases, a dirty array becomes useless.
But it’s not just about the coating.
Pigeon poop is super acidic and capable of corroding wiring, hardware, and even the panels themselves.
Pigeons are not the neatest builders, and their beds are untidy messes of twigs, sticks, and feathers. In addition to the unsightly view, the debris blocks airflow, and your system will overheat.
The nests also trap water during heavy rainfall. The result is pooling on the roof and, over the long term, structural leaks.
Factor in the odor and early morning cooing, and it’s goodbye to your peace of mind.
If your neighbor finds a way to block the birds’ access to their panels, the flock simply moves to your house.
What’s the solution to the pigeon invasion?
Phoenix residents are bringing out their ultimate creativity
What are frustrated homeowners doing to stop the invasion?
The methods are getting increasingly creative as Phoenix residents go to war to evict the flocks.
The most obvious solution is blocking their physical access with a perimeter. Heavy-duty stainless steel mesh or bird netting around the edges are the first choices.
The other options are panel skirts or flashing to seal all gaps, because pigeons are persistent.
There’s also the option to prevent them from landing entirely. This takes bird spikes installed on mounting rails and peak edges.
You may need to drop some cash
Some people take the high-tech route by deploying reflective tape that flashes, pinwheels that spin, or shiny objects that move. These methods supposedly scare the birds away.
Ultrasonic audio devices are also popular, emitting sounds that pigeons hate.
The chemical defense sees people applying sticky, bird-repellent gels to pigeon perching spots.
Remember that cleaning is essential to remove pheromones and acidic droppings before the damage becomes permanent.
Proactive bird-proofing is the best plan. It’s easier to prevent the birds from moving in than it is to evict them. And cheaper, too.
With the right fortress in place, you can finally enjoy your clean energy in peace. Is it time to fortify your investment?