Home » Tips To Ensure Your HVAC System Stays Pest Free

Tips To Ensure Your HVAC System Stays Pest Free

Some people like to watch squirrels and chipmunks roam in their backyards, but they can cause a lot of damage if they decide to take up residence in your HVAC system. Many homeowners are unaware of the problems these pests and rodents can create if they find a way inside your heating or cooling system.

This spring, be proactive and ensure that your HVAC system isn’t an inviting place for rodents!

Keep Your Air Conditioner Condenser Clear of Shrubbery

Outdoor condenser units are not always the prettiest, but you should never plant bushes or flowers too close to the unit. Shrubbery attracts animals, and once critters are around your condenser, it’s only a matter of time until they try to get in. Squirrels, chipmunks and mice can chew and scratch different components that could lead to a complete system breakdown.

Install Flue And Vent Covers

Exhaust from your HVAC system exits your home through flues while fresh air enters your home through intake vents. Both components are on the outside of your home and are popular entry points for critters. Over time, the covers and screens on flues and vents can get damaged, so make a point to check that they are properly secured.

For High Efficiency Furnaces:

Manufacturers of high efficiency furnaces specify that you should not put a screen or cover on the exhaust pipe (for more information, contact us) but you can secure the furnace intake pipe.

Seal Ducts

If critters get into your air ducts, they can have access to any room of your home since ducts are distributed throughout the house to bring conditioned air to every area. Additionally, any contaminant left by rodents could be dispersed throughout your home as air blows through—causing your indoor air quality to suffer. Keep critters out by ensuring that all ducts are properly sealed.

The best way to keep your HVAC system pest free and ensure no unwanted guests damage your equipment is to have annual heating and cooling maintenance performed. Technicians can ensure your home comfort system is clean, damage-free and not susceptible to pests and critters.

Usually, people don’t realize they have pests in their HVAC system until it’s too late. They’ll either hear (or smell) them or they cause irreparable damage and you’re faced with a system breakdown. Take a few minutes to ensure that you’re protecting your HVAC system and keeping the critters where they belong—in the yard!

Martino Heating & Air Conditioning has been designing, installing and repairing home comfort systems in the GTA and Quinte regions for over 30 years. We provide our customers with a variety of premium products to match their home comfort needs and budget.

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