Pests can find their way inside heating and cooling equipment and either cause damage or die because they can’t get back out. You want to avoid both of these possibilities. In this post, trusted HVAC maintenance contractor Bill Reynolds Heating & Air Conditioning discusses ways to protect your home comfort system from these pesky critters.
HVAC Problems Caused by Pests
Rats, squirrels, raccoons and certain insects may gain access to your HVAC unit through gaps in the ductwork, vent openings or piping from the outdoor unit. When they do, expect the following problems to manifest themselves:
-
Damage – The hidden areas of your home, including the inside of your HVAC system, are perfect places for small animals to form colonies or build nests. You might not notice them until they’ve caused a great deal of damage to other parts of the house.
-
Indoor air issues – Pests leave excrement and dander inside air ducts. In addition to strong odors, airborne pathogens can also find their way into your living spaces, impacting your home’s indoor air quality.
-
Health issues – Warm or cool air from the HVAC system passing through pest-infested ductwork carries contaminants that can be inhaled by anyone in your house, resulting in respiratory issues.
Ways to Protect Your HVAC System From Pests
Keeping your heating and cooling system pest-free will help preserve its lifespan, prevent unnecessary repairs and protect you and your family from health problems. Here’s what you can do:
-
Keep everything clean – A clean indoor and outdoor environment is the key to pest control and prevention. Trash bins, for instance, should have secure lids and be placed away from your property’s perimeter. Also, pests tend to hide in areas filled with too many belongings, which is why it makes sense to eliminate clutter and get organized as well.
-
Repair and seal ducts – Pests can get inside air ducts through cracks, gaps and disconnections at the joints and seams. Work with a licensed HVAC technician who can perform duct cleaning and sealing.
-
Schedule HVAC inspections – Your local HVAC contractor can provide you with a maintenance plan that will ensure the long-term performance and efficiency of your heating and cooling unit.
Bill Reynolds Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in all types of HVAC services, and our technicians are specially trained on the products we install. Call (440) 946-7863 or fill out our contact form to request a quote or schedule a service appointment.
When you feel something is not right with your HVAC systems, your HVAC System might need repairs to keep your HVAC system working. If your HVAC systems often need repairs and highly consume utility bills it may be time to consider HVAC replacements. Always go for a licensed HVAC contractor, as they do have the experience to repair HVAC efficiently. Congressional HVAC specializes in existing HVAC systems repair and HVAC replacements.