How to Tell If Critters Are Damaging Your Solar Panels (And What to Do About It)

You’d be surprised how often we get calls that start with, “I think something’s living under my solar panels.” And more often than not they’re right. Squirrels, birds, raccoons… they love to hide out under panels. It’s quiet, warm, and sheltered. But for you, the homeowner, it’s trouble waiting to happen.

So how do you know if your solar system is under attack from critters? Let’s walk through the signs to look for and what you should do if you spot them.

1. You’re Hearing Noises

One of the first signs is usually sound. If you’re hearing scratching, scurrying, or fluttering up on the roof or even from inside the attic it’s time to take a closer look. Squirrels and birds are the usual suspects, especially in the early morning or evening hours.

2. You See Droppings or Nesting Debris

If you’ve noticed small piles of leaves, twigs, or feathers around the edge of your roof, that’s a red flag. Animals often leave behind clues. Sometimes you might spot bird droppings or chewed bits of insulation. It’s all evidence that your panels may have uninvited guests.

3. Wires Are Damaged or Hanging Loose

This one’s serious. Squirrels and rodents love chewing wires especially the ones under your panels. If you or your installer notice wiring that looks frayed, stripped, or disconnected, stop using the system and call a professional. That kind of damage not only hurts your solar production, it’s dangerous.

4. Sudden Drop in Solar Output

If your solar system was performing well but suddenly takes a dip, animals could be the reason. Nests or droppings can block airflow and shade your panels, reducing efficiency. Chewed wires can also interrupt performance. Before blaming your system, consider checking for animal activity.

So, What Should You Do?

First things first don’t climb onto your roof. We get it, you want to check it out. But it’s not worth the risk. Instead, give us a call. We offer free inspections, and we’ll check everything safely and professionally.

If we find signs of damage or critter activity, we’ll walk you through your options. In most cases, installing a critter guard for your solar panels is the best solution. It prevents animals from getting back in and protects your system for the long haul.

To learn more about how critter guards work, check out our blog post, “How Do Critter Guards Protect Your Solar Panels?” It prevents animals from getting back in and protects your system for the long haul.

Additionally, if you’re noticing any of these signs, it might be time to consider installing a critter guard. We go over the top signs you need one in another post, “Top Signs You Need a Critter Guard for Your Solar Panels,” which can help you determine if you’re at risk.

A Quick Word of Advice

Don’t wait until there’s a serious problem. It’s much cheaper to install a guard early than to fix chewed wires or replace damaged panels later. Think of it like a screen door, it doesn’t stop the sun, but it keeps the pests out.