Solar Safety Starts with Pest Prevention

Whether you’re in the suburbs of New Jersey, the cityscapes of New York, or the sunny rooftops of California, solar panel systems are vulnerable to one common issue—pests.

Squirrels, pigeons, rats, and even raccoons see the space under your solar panels as the perfect place to nest. Once they settle in, they often chew through wiring and build flammable nests that can ignite fires.

It’s Not the System’s Fault

Fires caused by pest damage aren’t due to faulty solar panels or poor installation. They happen because of exposed wires—usually chewed open by rodents—and dry nesting materials catching a spark.

This type of event can happen to any system, anywhere.
And it’s entirely preventable.

What You Can Do to Prevent Fires From Pest

No matter where you live—whether it’s the dense neighborhoods of Brooklyn, a beach town in California, or a quiet spot in New Jersey—pest intrusion is a real risk. Luckily, so is prevention.

Your First Lines of Defense:

Install Critter Guard

Critter guards are wire mesh barriers that close off access to the space beneath your panels. They’re effective, discreet, and highly recommended.

Schedule Routine Inspections

Annual inspections can identify signs of damage or nesting early, giving you time to act before it becomes dangerous.

Clear Roof Debris

Loose leaves, sticks, and debris are all fuel for fire. Keep your rooftop clean to minimize risk.

Stay Safe with Sea Bright Solar

At Sea Bright Solar, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable these situations are. We recommend critter guards for every install and offer inspection services to help protect your solar investment—whether you’re in New Jersey, New York, or California.