If pests are allowed to gain access to your HVAC system, it can result in more than just an annoyance. Equipment damage, disease and allergy issues, and damage to the structure of your home are just some of the possible problems if pests get inside. Mice, termites, ants, wasps, spiders, silverfish, snakes and even raccoons can make their way into your HVAC system and your home, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Potential Pest Problems with HVAC Systems
Equipment and Structural Damage
Depending on the type of pests you have in your home, they may take up residence in your HVAC system or simply use it as a conduit to get to the rest of your home. Nesting insects can cause extensive damage requiring repair or replacement of parts or your entire system, if left unchecked. If the damage is extensive, it can even affect the value of your home.
Air Quality Issues
The quality of the air you breathe can be affected in numerous ways by pests. Their droppings and nests can omit noxious odors and deceased pests inside your system can create even more problems. When you turn on your HVAC system, those odors are circulated throughout your home. Pesticides may be needed to treat a pest infestation, creating further odors.
Health and Allergy Issues
Many people are allergic to certain pests and these allergies can be triggered by an infestation. Being bitten or stung by pests is yet another health risk. Mosquitos carry the West Nile virus. Rodents can carry rabies and other diseases that are harmful to humans. Asthma and other respiratory conditions can also be exacerbated when odors, dander and other debris are circulated through the home. Fleas and ticks can also pose a health risk to both you and your furry family members.
How to Prevent Pests from Accessing Your HVAC System
1. Regular Maintenance of Your System
At Haldeman Mechanical, our experienced Service Technicians are trained to detect a potential pest problem before it becomes a major issue. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system will ensure that any pest problems will cause minimal damage. Sign up for one of our Customer Assurance Agreements for all your maintenance needs.
2. Cover Flues, Vents and Intakes
Flue pipes and vents are necessary for any HVAC system to expel byproducts. Blockages of these areas with things like nests and other pest debris can cause serious problems, including byproducts such as carbon monoxide backing up into your home. Your home may also have fresh air intakes and other exterior vents for items like kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans. All of these flues, vents and intakes should be covered to prevent any kind of pests from entering. Haldeman Mechanical can install the appropriate covers to prevent common local pests from gaining access to your system and ensure that they are fitted properly so they can’t be penetrated or removed.
3. Keep Your Air Conditioning Condenser Pest-Free
Your air conditioning condenser is an ideal spot for pests to set up shop. Damage such a chewing, scratching and urinating can cause problems, as can turning on your AC while a pest happens to be in the unit. To keep pests away, keep the area clear by cutting back vegetation and cleaning the unit and surrounding area with mild soap and water. The cleaner the area, the better. Use a pesticide or natural pest repellent around the unit as a deterrent.
4. Seal Your Ducts
Ducts are another perfect spot for pests to settle in. If you already have a problem, try using traps instead of poison to reduce health risks and ensure deceased pests don’t get stuck in your ducts. Having your ducts cleaned and properly sealed will prevent any future problems.