When you think about your HVAC system, you likely do not consider the problems that may develop on the outside of your home. Pests are part of the problem, and they can impact your HVAC system any time of year. This guide helps you understand what pests may infiltrate your heating and cooling system and what you can do about it.
What Pests Live in Your HVAC System?
Termites are among the most common pests that enter homes through the HVAC system. Termites eat wood, including the pieces of wood that make up your home. Additionally, termites can build nests inside the AC components.
Cockroaches also slip in through the smallest nooks and crannies, including parts of your HVAC system. Cockroaches are the experts of finding food, so they can come in through your AC or heater if they sense something tasty.
Many people are most fearful of the rodents that come in through the HVAC system. Rodents, like mice and rats, cause a variety of problems not only in your home but also your HVAC system.
What Risks Do These Pests Pose?
Pests cause indoor air quality concerns, which can make your family ill. Individuals in your home who are allergic to pests, like cockroaches, will exhibit allergy symptoms from breathing the air that flows through your HVAC system.
Your home may also experience damage because of pests. For example, rodents often chew through lines to build nests in your HVAC system.
Some effects of pests affect your lifestyle. For instance, a rodent that gets into your home can die in your vents and cause rotten smells. As the cool or warm air flows over the bodies of deceased pests, the bad odor will flow throughout your home.
Additionally, many people turn to pest control professionals to eliminate pests. But many pest control professionals may not realize that spraying pesticides in an HVAC system has a health and lifestyle effect on the family inside the home.
Can You Prevent Pests From Infiltrating Your HVAC System?
Fortunately, you can prevent pests from taking over your HVAC system. The first step is to seal off vents and other outlets that open up to the outside — vent covers will be your best friend. Do not forget to check out the vents that lead from the basement or the attic.
You can also prevent pests from an HVAC invasion when you call an HVAC specialist to examine your system as part of regular maintenance. Duct cleaning is part of the process that leaves your system in excellent condition. If the specialist notices signs of pests, he or she can let you know what you need to do next.
Landscaping is also important. If you have trees or shrubs that rub against your vents and other parts of your HVAC system, pests have even easier access to your home.
If you have bad odors to contend with, you can call your HVAC professional to clear out the ducts. He or she will clear out any debris — including pest nests and dead rodents — that have accumulated.
How
Can you Deal With HVAC Problems?
When you have blocked access for pests to enter your HVAC system, you can deal with any potential problems they have caused. Your HVAC specialist understands the common issues pests cause and what should be done about them.
A-1 Finchum Heating & Cooling offers heating and cooling services. For more than 30 years, we have offered high-quality HVAC services with customer satisfaction. Whether you are in Knoxville or the surrounding area, we can provide you with excellent heating and cooling service. Call us today to meet with one of our consultants.
