Ever turn on your air conditioning after months of not using it, only to find it’s not working quite right? Before you assume it’s just wear and tear, you might want to consider a more unexpected problem/culprits: rodents and pests. That’s right, tiny invaders like mice, squirrels, and insects can do major damage to your system, especially your AC ductwork.
So, how do rodents get into your ducts?
When it gets cold outside, your warm, cozy ductwork becomes the perfect hideout for critters. Ducts are often located in attics, basements, or crawl spaces, places pests love. Once inside, they chew, scratch, and make themselves at home. Unfortunately, your AC system pays the price.
What kind of damage can they do?
Rodents are notorious chewers. They can gnaw through your ductwork, creating holes or completely tearing it apart. That leads to air leaks, making your system work harder and raising your energy bills. And it gets worse, rodents also chew through electrical wiring and insulation, which can cause short circuits, system failures, or even fire hazards.
Their droppings and urine? Not only do they stink, but they can also cause corrosion and spread bacteria and allergens through your home whenever the system runs.
Could this affect your indoor air quality?
Absolutely. Damaged ductwork lets dirty, unfiltered air into your home, including dust, dander, and whatever the rodents have left behind. If you or your family members suffer from allergies or asthma, this kind of contamination can be a real health issue.
How can you prevent this?
Start by keeping the area around your outdoor AC unit clean and clear, no tall grass, weeds, or debris that might attract pests. For indoor protection, seal any small holes or gaps around vents and duct connections. A sprinkle of cinnamon or cayenne pepper around the outdoor unit can even act as a natural pest repellent!
But for persistent problems, it’s smart to call in the pros, both an HVAC technician to assess damage and a pest control expert to keep critters away.
Rodents and pests can turn your air conditioner into a disaster zone before you even realize it. If you think your AC ductwork might’ve been sabotaged, contact Sierra Air Inc. for expert inspection and repair. We’ll repair any damage to your HVAC system and get it back on track, and also help you with tips that can keep pests out for good!
