Investing in solar is a smart step to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s an investment you’ll want to protect as the years go on to ensure the system performs to the best of its ability. The threats to your solar system might come from unlikely places.
Squirrels have been known to let their curiosity get the best of them. Chewing and clawing can damage the electrical system of your solar panels when left unchecked. What steps should you take if your solar panels are damaged by squirrels? Here’s what you need to know.
1. Check Your Monitoring
Most solar systems include monitoring applications that give you crucial information about the performance of your solar system. Use your smartphone or computer to see if the panels are producing power at an expected output. Monitoring apps are usually available through your solar installer with national companies like Tesla and Sunrun. Alternatively, the app may also be available through the inverter manufacturer such as SolarEdge or Enphase.
Not certain what type of equipment was installed? Check out your external meter, which should contain the manufacturer’s information.
2. Assess the Damage
If your system isn’t performing as expected, have a professional inspect your system. They’ll look for signs that your solar panels are damaged by squirrels. These include chewed wires or torn wires, as well as scratches and cracks on the panels themselves. They’ll determine the extent of the damage, and advise you about the next steps to address it.
3. Repair or Replace Damaged Components
Keeping your system functioning at its full capacity is essential. For this reason, it’s important to have a professional solar maintenance company repair or replace any components that have been damaged. This ensures your solar system will meet its expected efficiency and not suffer accelerated deterioration over the years.
4. Install Critter Guards
If your solar panels are damaged by squirrels, the risk isn’t eliminated simply by fixing the damage. You’ll want a method to protect the panels from future damage. Critter guards are defense systems that protect the base of your panels and their electric system from intruders. SolaTrim is our recommendation for a durable, easy-to-use protective barrier to repel critters.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Solar systems are renowned for their durability. But like any feature of your home, they require care over time to stop small problems from ballooning into catastrophic ones. Finding a trusted solar maintenance contractor is essential. Through regular upkeep of your system, they’ll ensure it stays efficient and can meet the estimated lifespan of 20-25 years
Expert Solar Maintenance and Critter-Prevention
While you may not think the squirrels in your neighborhood pose a problem, you can never be too safe. Damaged wires can create potentially hazardous electrical issues. Always monitor the performance of your solar system, and take seriously the damage critters can cause. By staying on top of solar panel maintenance, you’ll be able to benefit from a great system for years to come.
If you’re ready to have your system inspected by a professional team, reach out to Fusion Solar Services for a free quote today.
