Keep Critters Out: Five Ways to Pest-Proof Your HVAC System

There’s no better place to be during the winter months than in a warm home. Unfortunately, rodents, bugs and other pests think so, too! These vermin often hide indoors while waiting for the warm weather to return in the spring. After all, it tends to be a pretty good arrangement for them, with easy access to food, ample hiding spots and a cozy space to reproduce.

The HVAC system is one of the most common nesting locations for pests, as it offers both warmth and security. But these unwanted intruders can have devastating effects on the system. Droppings can contaminate the air supply and clog filters, while a mouse could chew holes through important wires. At worst, the unwanted guests could cause a complete system failure after destroying components, leaving homeowners with no choice but to replace the entire HVAC.

By pest-proofing your HVAC system, you can keep pests out of your home and prevent damage to expensive equipment:

• Seal off ducts: Leaky ducts are the perfect entryway for cockroaches, ants and even squirrels and raccoons. They can easily sneak through the opening in search of somewhere to lay eggs or nest. Cracks in the ducts can also lead to an increase in energy bills, as the air leaks out through the gaps. Have a specialist provide HVAC repair in Oklahoma City, OK by sealing off any compromised areas in the ductwork to keep the warm air inside and the pests outside.
• Cover vents and flues: The HVAC system relies on the flue pipe to remove the byproducts of combustion from the furnace. Any blockage, such as a bird or other pest that has died in the pipe, could result in dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning when the byproducts aren’t properly expelled. Install a cover over the flue pipe and any vents to prevent pest entry.
• Eliminate debris: Check the area surrounding the outdoor unit for any debris, such as leaves, old wood or compost. Remove any items to eliminate a potential nest for rodents.
• Protect the condenser: A raccoon or squirrel could cause serious damage to the air conditioning condenser by chewing parts or urinating on it. This can be an incredibly costly repair, so the best option is to prevent them from coming near it in the first place. Remove any nearby vegetation and use a spray repellent to make the area unattractive to furry attackers.
• Schedule maintenance: An HVAC technician will be able to inspect the unit to determine whether there are any signs of an infestation. They will also clean inside the HVAC and the surrounding space to make it inhospitable to unwanted guests. This simple precaution will go a long way toward preventing a pest problem before it ever begins.

Maintaining your HVAC system is key to keeping bugs and rodents out of your home. Call the experts at Dailey Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule an inspection of your HVAC in Oklahoma City, OK. We look forward to helping your home stay comfortable and pest-free!

Categorised in: HVAC, HVAC Repair

This post was written by Writer