Solar panels are built to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions — intense sun, wind, hail, snow, and rain. But there is one threat most homeowners never expect: animals. Birds, squirrels, pigeons, raccoons, and other wildlife are naturally drawn to the warm, shaded space beneath solar panels. Once they get in, the damage can be severe.

This is why solar critter guards have become one of the most important add-on protections for homeowners. Critter guards prevent animals from nesting under panels, chewing wiring, or creating debris buildup that reduces efficiency or causes long-term system failure.

In this guide, we’ll explain why critter guards are essential, the types of damage animals can cause, signs you may already have a problem, and how installing guards with a professional company like Solar RNR protects your system and saves money in the long run.

Why Animals Love the Space Under Solar Panels

Solar panels create an ideal environment for animals, especially in climates like Colorado where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically.

Here’s why they’re attracted:

• Warmth: Panels generate heat that makes the underside a cozy nesting spot.
• Shelter: Panels shield animals from predators, wind, rain, sun, and snow.
• Stable mounting rails: The racking system creates ideal pathways and platforms for movement and nesting.
• Food sources: Many animals bring food under panels, attracting even more wildlife.

Unfortunately, that comfortable home comes at a high cost to your solar system.

Types of Animals That Cause Solar Damage

Different animals create different issues — but all of them can compromise your solar system.

Squirrels

The most common culprit. Squirrels love chewing through wiring, which can lead to:

• System failure
• Arc faults
• Exposed copper
• Fire hazards
• Expensive electrical repairs

Squirrels can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a matter of weeks.

Pigeons and Birds

Birds build nests directly under panels, filling them with:

• Droppings (highly acidic)
• Twigs and leaves
• Food remnants
• Insects

Bird nests can block airflow, reduce cooling, and create fire risks. Droppings also stain and reduce panel efficiency.

Raccoons

Strong enough to rip up wiring and insulation, raccoons may pry or lift panels slightly to make room to nest.

Mice and Rats

Small enough to fit through small gaps, they chew wiring and leave behind debris, contamination, and nesting materials.

Other wildlife

Depending on your area, solar systems can attract:

• Opossums
• Bats
• Chipmunks
• Insects

Any of these can disrupt your solar system’s performance and safety.

The Damage Animals Can Cause to Your Solar Investment

Animals under your panels don’t just “hang out” — they actively damage your system.

Chewed Electrical Wiring

This is the most dangerous and expensive problem. Chewed wires lead to:

• Shorts or blown fuses
• Inverter shutdown
• Arc faults
• Fire hazards
• Loss of power production

Repairs often require removing panels and replacing wiring — a costly process.

Nesting Materials

Nests can:

• Block airflow under panels, leading to overheating
• Accumulate moisture
• Attract additional pests
• Create highly flammable fire hazards

Airflow is essential for solar panel longevity and performance.

Panel and Roof Damage

Animals may:

• Scratch panel backsheets
• Tear insulation
• Damage mounting hardware
• Lift shingles or tiles

This can cause roof leaks and structural problems.

Reduced Efficiency

Debris, droppings, and nests can partially shade your panels, which drastically reduces energy production.

Voided Warranties

Many solar manufacturers will not cover damage caused by animals under their warranties.

This makes critter guards even more valuable.

Signs You Need Critter Guards (Or Already Have an Animal Problem)

Many homeowners don’t realize they have animals under their panels until damage is already done. Look for these warning signs:

1. Scratching or movement noises on the roof

If you hear scurrying, scratching, or running on the roof — especially in the early morning — animals are likely nesting under your panels.

2. Droppings on or around panels

Bird droppings on the roof, gutters, or ground can indicate nesting activity.

3. Reduced system production

Chewed wires or shading from nests causes a noticeable dip in power output.

4. Twigs, leaves, or debris under the panel edges

Nesting materials often stick out around the perimeter.

5. Visible chewing or bite marks

If you can see chewed insulation or wires, the problem is advanced.

6. Birds frequently landing around your panels

Especially pigeons — they build colonies quickly.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to install critter guards immediately.

What Solar Critter Guards Are (And How They Work)

Critter guards are protective barriers installed around the perimeter of solar panels. They:

• Prevent animals from entering the underside of your array
• Keep out debris, leaves, and nesting materials
• Allow airflow and cooling
• Do not affect panel production

They are typically made from:

• Galvanized steel mesh (most durable; recommended)
• Stainless steel mesh (premium option)
• Specialized clips that attach to the panel frame without penetrating or damaging it

A properly installed critter guard is nearly invisible from the ground and does not void panel warranties.

Benefits of Installing Critter Guards

Critter guards are one of the best long-term protections for your solar system. Here’s why:

Prevents Expensive Wiring Repairs

Rewiring after squirrel damage can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000, depending on the severity.

A critter guard installation is a fraction of that cost.

Protects Your Roof

Animals lifting shingles or digging under mounts can create leaks — a much bigger problem than panel damage.

Keeps the System Running Efficiently

Even small nests can shade multiple cells and reduce energy production.

Maintains Warranty Coverage

Most panel warranties exclude animal damage; critter guards help prevent that issue entirely.

Avoids Fire Risks

Nesting materials and chewed wiring create dangerous electrical hazards.

6. Reduces Cleaning Needs

Without birds nesting above them, your panels stay cleaner longer.

Peace of Mind

Knowing your solar system is protected year-round offers long-term confidence.

How Solar RNR Installs Critter Guards

Step 1: Roof & System Inspection

We check for: Current animal activity, Wiring damage, Nesting material, Panel integrity, Possible entry points

Step 2: Safe Removal of Animals and Debris

We clear out nests, debris, droppings, and contaminants.

Step 3: Cleaning and Minor Repairs

If needed, we fix small issues before installing your guard system.

Step 4: Precision Installation

We attach mesh to the solar panel framework using non-invasive clips designed specifically for solar panels. No drilling or puncturing occurs.

Step 5: Full Perimeter Sealing

We secure the entire array so animals cannot squeeze through any gaps.

Step 6: Final Inspection & Guarantee

We verify structural integrity and ensure no access points remain.

How Much Do Critter Guards Cost?

Typical pricing depends on: System size, Roof type, Existing damage, Number of sides requiring protection

On average:

Residential critter guard installation: $400–$1,000

Damage repair cost avoided: $1,000–$5,000+

This is one of the most cost-effective solar upgrades available.

When to Install Critter Guards

Critter guards can be installed at any time, but the best times are: Immediately after a new installation (most protection for least cost) After roof repairs, After noticing pest activity, Before spring nesting season, After hail or storm events that may disturb wildlife.

If you already have animals under your panels, installing critter guards after removal is essential — otherwise the problem repeats.

Solar panels are a major investment — and animals are one of the biggest unrecognized threats to them. Installing critter guards is one of the smartest, most cost-effective ways to protect your solar system, prevent expensive repairs, and ensure long-term efficiency.

Whether you’ve already noticed animal activity or want to prevent future damage, Solar RNR offers professional critter guard installation designed to keep your system safe year-round. With proper protection, your solar panels will continue delivering clean, affordable energy for decades.