What is Critter Guard and How Does It Work?

What is a Critter Guard?

A Critter Guard is a protective mesh barrier that is installed around the perimeter of your solar panels. It acts as a physical barrier that prevents birds, squirrels, and rodents from accessing the area underneath your panels.

Solar panels create the perfect sheltered space for critters—offering warmth, shade, and protection from predators. This makes them an attractive nesting spot for pigeons, doves, squirrels, and other small animals. Unfortunately, these animals can cause significant damage to your solar system over time.

Critter Guard is designed to prevent these issues before they start. It doesn’t interfere with the function of your solar panels, but it ensures that critters can’t get underneath, chew on wires, or make a mess on your roof.

Why is Critter Guard Important?

Without protection, solar panels can quickly become a safe haven for birds and rodents, leading to several issues:

• Chewed Wires: Squirrels and rodents often chew on wiring, which can cause electrical malfunctions and costly repairs. If a wire is damaged, it may prevent your solar panels from producing energy efficiently—or at all.
• Debris Build-Up: Birds, especially pigeons, will bring twigs, leaves, and other materials to build nests under your panels. Over time, this debris can block airflow, trap moisture, and lead to potential damage.
• Droppings and Roof Damage: Bird droppings aren’t just unsightly—they’re acidic and can slowly corrode materials over time. They can also create slippery surfaces and additional maintenance headaches.
• Reduced Solar Efficiency: If nests, debris, or droppings accumulate under or around the panels, it can affect their efficiency. Keeping your system clean and free from obstructions helps maintain its optimal performance.

How Does a Critter Guard Work?

A Critter Guard is installed along the edges of your solar panels, creating a secure fence-like barrier that prevents animals from accessing the space underneath.

Step 1: Attaching the Mesh

The mesh is designed to fit around the perimeter of your solar panels. It’s made of durable, weather-resistant material that can withstand outdoor conditions.

Step 2: Using Non-Intrusive Clips

One of the best features of a Critter Guard is that it does not require drilling into your panels. Instead, it uses specialized clips (J-hooks) that attach to the panel frames. This means your solar panel warranty remains intact while ensuring a secure fit.

Step 3: Creating a Protective Barrier

Once the mesh is installed, it creates a continuous barrier around your system. This prevents squirrels from squeezing through gaps, pigeons from nesting underneath, and rodents from chewing on wires.

Who Needs a Critter Guard?

Not every home requires a Critter Guard, but it is highly recommended if:

• You already see pigeons, squirrels, or other critters on or around your roof.
• Your neighborhood has a high population of birds or rodents.
• You want to protect your investment and prevent potential solar system damage.
• You live in an area with heavy tree coverage, which can lead to more wildlife near your roof.

If you’re unsure whether you need one, it’s best to assess your roof before or shortly after installing solar panels. If you notice signs of bird droppings, nesting materials, or critter activity, a Critter Guard can save you from expensive repairs down the road.

Common Critters That Cause Problems

1. Pigeons and Doves

Pigeons are one of the biggest nuisances for solar panel owners. They nest underneath panels and leave behind large amounts of droppings that can corrode materials and block airflow. Their constant movement can also loosen connections, reducing system efficiency.

2. Squirrels

Squirrels chew on wires, which can disable your system or cause an electrical hazard. If a squirrel gets under the panels, it can also build nests that trap moisture and debris, leading to panel overheating.

3. Rodents (Rats and Mice)

Rodents are known for gnawing through anything, including solar panel wiring. If they access the space under your panels, they can cause severe damage to the electrical components, leading to costly repairs or system failure.

How Much Does a Critter Guard Cost?

Critter Guard installation costs vary based on the size of your solar system and the amount of material required. On average:

• Smaller systems: $500 – $800
• Larger systems: $1,100 – $1,500

While this may seem like an additional expense, it is a fraction of the cost compared to repairing damaged wires, replacing panels, or dealing with pest infestations. Investing in a Critter Guard can save you thousands in future repairs.

Does a Critter Guard Affect Solar Panel Performance?

No, a Critter Guard does not interfere with the performance of your solar panels. It is installed only around the edges, leaving the panels fully functional and unobstructed. In fact, by preventing debris and nesting materials from accumulating under the panels, it helps maintain their efficiency over time.

Final Thoughts – Is a Critter Guard Worth It?

If you live in an area with pigeons, squirrels, or other rooftop critters, installing a Critter Guard is one of the best things you can do to protect your solar investment. It ensures your system remains clean, efficient, and free from damage caused by nesting animals or wire-chewing rodents.

At Supreme Solar, we highly recommend Critter Guard for homeowners who want long-term protection for their solar system. If you have questions or would like to add a Critter Guard to your setup, reach out to our team today!