Pest-Proof Your AC To Keep Pesky Pests At Bay

The summer heat is quickly rolling in, which means many people will soon be turning to their AC unit as a source of comfort. Pests also seek the comfort of your AC unit when warmer weather strikes. Your AC provides protection, hydration, and potential access to your home. Make sure you pest-proof your air conditioning unit to keep pests at bay so your AC can operate at its full potential.

Reduce Moisture

Pests will seek out a source of hydration, especially during the spring and summer months when they risk dehydration. Your air conditioner will often produce condensation, which can provide a water source for thirsty pests such as bugs and rodents.

You can reduce moisture created by your AC unit by checking the condensation line for clogs. If you notice a puddle of water under your unit, such as in the drip pan, you likely have a clog. Call a professional to help you clear the line to reduce moisture buildup.

Consider an Enclosure

There are enclosures you can purchase for outdoor HVAC units. Enclosures help reduce the likelihood of pests taking over your AC. Birds will often attempt to build nests in AC units, which can wreak havoc. Aside from clogging the AC, bird feces is difficult to remove and dangerous for your health.

For instance, bird droppings can lead to histoplasmosis, which occurs when you breathe in spores created by contaminated bird droppings. Histoplasmosis creates flu-like symptoms and can even lead to death. If you suspect birds have built a nest in your unit, have a repair professional come to address the issue. Afterward, install an enclosure to prevent further issues.

Inspect Your Ductwork

You should address faulty ductwork if you wish to keep pests out of your AC unit and your home. Also, breaks in your ductwork will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Cool air will leak from the breaks rather than flowing into your home, which will cause your AC to work harder to keep your home cool and comfortable. That kind of strain can shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system.

If you are unsure how to check the ductwork, contact a professional near you for assistance. An expert repair person can inspect the ductwork and perform all necessary repairs. If pests have already taken up residence in your ductwork, a professional can spot the problem and provide you with the necessary steps to get rid of them.

Invest in Routine Maintenance

Perhaps the best way to keep pests out of your HVAC unit is to invest in routine maintenance. Routine maintenance allows a professional to ensure that they address potential issues before they become a big and expensive problem. Maintenance can help you save money in the long run by ensuring pests stay out of your home and your AC continues to run as it should.

You will need to discuss with an HVAC expert the best schedule for maintenance. Some experts perform maintenance seasonally, whereas others may recommend more frequency depending on the type of unit you have, the area where you live, and the likelihood of pest invasions.

Take Preventative Measures

Make sure you take the steps necessary to prevent pests from finding your home and HVAC unit attractive. Do not store garbage bins near your outdoor HVAC unit. Instead, keep your trash in lidded bins and make sure there is distance between the bins and your unit. Pests seek out food found in trash bins, and a nearby AC unit can provide a great place to hide out.

If you are interested in learning about the different ways you can keep pests out of your HVAC system, contact an air conditioning service company near you. A professional can provide you with various tips and maintenance to keep your unit pest-free and your unit running at optimal efficiency.