Solar Panels and Birds

[D&D]

Given the loss of output from even small shadows, birds (and especially their deposits!) on and around solar panels can be a real nuisance...as we are discovering, much to our chagrin...

Any suggestions from our fellow cruisers?

We note what seems to be an excellent solution in a motion activated sprinkler system, but sadly that will only work for vessels on either a jetty or a marina where there is constant access to a high pressure hose.

We're currently using a wind-activated vane (will get the name if anyone's interested) but it's only mildy effective...and certainly not adequate to keep the panels clear.

We see various attempts at bird-deterrence on other vessels, including netting, but wouldn't netting also reduce the solar panel output?

On another ('What products would you wish for...?') thread we nodded in amusement (and shared frustration!) at the suggestion of diapers/nappies for seagulls! Argh!!

[ReMetau]

If they are landing on the panels, then maybe find a way to do an X pattern of mono-filament line above them. If they are flying by and dropping bombs, then good luck to ya.

[zeehag]

monofilament worked great on my neighbors boat when he bitched about the damgulls wreckinghisstuff.....flapping tarp material works great also. scares em.

[Uncle Bob]

Hey I have had good results from a flat monofillament line sold as birdscare humming line. When stretched between two vertical supports any breeze creates a humm, the birds just hate and go elsewhere.

[D&D]

Thanks ReMetau [Don & Diana eh? We're Don & Diane!] & zeehag.

Tried the monofilament line 'trick' against some India Minor birds on a house...and then watched as, when they realised the lines were passive, the birds ended up sitting between the lines and jumping over and around them...and, of course, happily s---ing everywhere as always...mmmm...will seagulls be dumber?

The flapping tarp would surely result in shadows over the panels...?

[highseas]

I have a windgenerator near the panels,seen a few feathers,birds stay away.

[D&D]

Originally Posted by Uncle Bob

birdscare humming line

Thanks Bob...sounds interesting!

Can the line be fixed and then removed and then re-fixed/used again?

[zeehag]

try placing the lines about 2-3 inches over the panels, not only in X shape but in lines across, both ways. wont block the sun and will keep damnbirds off. do not make it so they can use it for balance.....seagulls have different kinds of feet than house birds. seagulls have webbed feets...house birds have spindly lil toesies feets and can grab onto smaller lines.
find a spot on your boat to place a lil tarp that can flap a bit.... under the panels ....

[Uncle Bob]

Originally Posted by D&D

Thanks Bob...sounds interesting!

Can the line be fixed and then removed and then re-fixed/used again?

Sure can, I just use plastic hooks suitable to the point that I want to hook on to and remove when I use the boat. Unfortunately the line doesn't last forever with all the vibrating but is fairly cheap, AND no birdshit..

[zeehag]

my cat keeps birdees off my boat, bu ti have had excellent good fortune with monofilament.

[PeteAndJudith]

Originally Posted by Uncle Bob

Hey I have had good results from a flat monofillament line sold as birdscare humming line. When stretched between two vertical supports any breeze creates a humm, the birds just hate and go elsewhere.

Good idea thank you

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by ReMetau

If they are landing on the panels, then maybe find a way to do an X pattern of mono-filament line above them. If they are flying by and dropping bombs, then good luck to ya.

I put mono ~ 2-3" above my spreaders; helped a lot, perhaps 75% Still suffer from bombing and sitting on the main, but much less.