Skip to content
Fresno: (559) 549-5638Palm Desert: (760) 304-1775
Search:
Search
Supreme Solar & Electric
Go Solar, Go Supreme!
Supreme Solar & Electric
  • About
    • About Supreme Solar
    • Our Team
      • Michael Sandoval
    • Testimonials
    • Supreme Referral Program
    • Warranty
  • Solar Services
    • Supreme Services
    • Residential Solar
    • Solar Patios
    • Ground Mount Solar
    • Solar Battery
    • Whole Home Generators
    • Solar Panel Cleaning Services
    • Critter Guard
    • Solar Monitoring
    • Residential Roofing Services
  • Installs
  • Resources
    • Solar Blog
    • Solar FAQ’s
  • Pricing
  • Contact
    • Get A Quote
    • Locations
Fresno: (559) 549-5638Palm Desert: (760) 304-1775GET A QUOTE
  • Home
  • Solar Services
    • Supreme Services
    • Residential Solar
    • Solar Battery
    • Solar Patios
    • Whole Home Generators
    • Solar Panel Cleaning Services
    • Critter Guard
    • Solar Monitoring
    • Residential Roofing Services
  • About
    • About Supreme Solar
    • Our Team
    • Testimonials
    • Referral Program
    • Warranty
  • Installs
  • Solar Energy Resource Center
    • Solar Blog
    • Solar FAQ’s
  • Contact
    • Get A Quote
    • Locations

What is Critter Guard and How Does It Work?

You are here:
  1. Home
  2. Solar Products
  3. Solar Panels
  4. What is Critter Guard and…

Solar Learning Center

    • Electricity Savings
    • Increased Home Value
    • Gain Energy Independence
    • Overview
    • System Design
    • Permitting
    • Installation
    • Inspection
    • Utility Approval
    • Activate Your System
    • NEM 3.0
    • How Solar Works
    • Choosing A Contractor
    • Quoting Process
    • Utility Rates & Requirements
    • Key Terms
    • Tips & Tricks
    • Solar Pro's and Con's
    • Energy Production
    • System Monitoring
    • Panel Cleaning
    • System Maintenance
    • Troubleshooting
    • Payment Options
    • Solar Loans
    • Solar PPA
    • Tax Credit
    • Product Reviews
    • Solar Batteries
    • Inverters
    • Solar Panels
    • Mounting & Racking System
    • 5 Star Service
    • Other Home Services
    • Testimonials
    • Warranties



What is Critter Guard and How Does It Work

Solar panels are a great investment for homeowners looking to save money on electricity while reducing their carbon footprint. However, one often overlooked challenge of having a solar system is protecting it from pests like pigeons, squirrels, and other small animals. These critters can nest underneath the panels, causing damage to wiring, reducing system efficiency, and leaving behind droppings that can create additional maintenance issues.

One of the best solutions to prevent these problems is a Critter Guard. But what exactly is a Critter Guard, and how does it work? In this blog post, we’ll break it down so you can understand why it’s important, how it’s installed, and why it might be a necessary addition to your solar system.

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.
What is Critter Guard and How Does It Work

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.

What is Critter Guard and How Does It Work

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!

Get the Deal You Deserve.

Contact Supreme Solar Today

Contact Us
Categories: Solar Panels, System maintenance, Tips & TricksMarch 14, 2025

Related Posts

Whats New in the Solar Industry in 2025
What’s New in the Solar Industry in 2025?
March 24, 2025
How to Choose the Right Solar Battery for Your Home: two solar batteries mounted on a garage wall.
How to Choose the Right Solar Battery for Your Home
March 21, 2025
Why is it a Good Idea to Combine Solar Panels With a Generator? A family sits inside a cozy home at night.
Why is it a Good Idea to Combine Solar Panels With a Generator?
February 21, 2025
Solar Patio How it Enhances Your Outdoor Living Space
Solar Patio: How it Enhances Your Outdoor Living Space
February 7, 2025
FRESNO

4277 W Richert Ave.
Fresno, CA 93722
(559) 549-5638

PALM DESERT

41841 Beacon Hill
Suite C
Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 304-1775

CSLB#1076925

Find us on:

Facebook page opens in new windowYouTube page opens in new windowInstagram page opens in new windowMail page opens in new window
SERVICES
  • Supreme Services
  • Residential Solar
  • Solar Battery
  • Solar Patios
  • Whole Home Generators
  • Critter Guard
  • Solar Panel Cleaning Services
  • Solar Monitoring
  • Residential Roofing Services
QUICK LINKS
  • Get A Quote
  • Solar Energy Resource Center
  • Solar FAQ’s
  • Testimonials
  • Our Team
  • Supreme Referral Program
  • Warranty
Supreme Solar BBB Business Review
© 2025 Supreme Solar & Electric. All Rights Reserved. | Website by Tailor Made Marketing.
Go to Top
Testimonials

Mohamed and Steve were amazing! They were able to squeeze in an appointment to install my Tesla wall charger and they did an amazing job. Highly recommend!
Brad Glenn

I referred many of my friend and family over to Mohamed throughout the years. He has always taken great care of them and delivered a great experience. Highly recommend him and his team.
Travis Russell

It has been a pleasure working with Supreme Solar. We had great conversations prior to proceeding with them and everything was explained, and we knew what to expect when everything was finished. Everything turned out perfect and I couldn’t be happier with the service that was provided. Highly recommend. Thanks again Supreme Solar!
Josh Reiter

Very professional team. I’m very pleased with the service. Felt very comfortable asking any questions and Mohamed made it very easy to understand. Definitely way better experience than my previous solar company.
Ana Jaymalin

I was in the solar business for years before accepting a position as an Energy Manager for a Native Tribe. I still receive inquiries from friends, family, and former customers to advise them on going solar. I have worked with a handful of companies, and Supreme is the best. While they are smaller than other companies, that works in their favor.
Jeremy Roos

Supreme Solar & Electric is simply fantastic! They were professional and swift in installing our new solar panels. Their service was top quality, they communicated clearly about what to expect, and left our home spotlessly clean. Now we’re enjoying the benefits of solar energy. Highly recommended!
Maddie Mooradian
  • How to get started with solar - a couple with a youg daughter stand before their house with solar panels on the roof and hold a model of a house with solar panels
    How to Get Started with Solar
    April 11, 2025
  • Neovolta Battery Review Is It the Best Solar Battery for Your Home
    Neovolta Battery Review: Is It the Best Solar Battery for Your Home?
    April 4, 2025
  • Whats New in the Solar Industry in 2025
    What’s New in the Solar Industry in 2025?
    March 24, 2025