Who lives in your AC - Fresh Air or Germs?

Dubai is a hot and humid region. People here look up to ACs for comfort to stay cool in this hot climate. There are few other creatures like us lookout for a cool temperature to thrive on. These bugs and rodents lookup for cool areas since that is the best for them. These bugs look out for places like your AC units and ducts to live since they provide them with a calm environment. 

Eventually, these bugs flow in through the air you breathe, and the rodents tend to eat up your wires and cables, resulting in a faulty AC unit. So, let's see in detail some of the rodents and bugs you might find in your AC Duct.

What Kinds of Bugs Infest the House?

Nobody wants to think about rodents, insects, or other pests in their homes or air conditioning systems. Pests can sometimes infiltrate parts of the HVAC network when homeowners neglect proper maintenance or have older systems. Some damage the environment (for example, by chewing and nesting), while others die because they can't find their way out. The five pests listed below can get into your home's HVAC system.

• Rats and Mice

Rodents enjoy crawling into small spaces, and they can wreak damage on your HVAC system. If they have the opportunity, they will use duct material to construct nests. They can also eat refrigerant lines and other HVAC components, resulting in expensive repairs.

• Squirrels and Raccoons

Squirrels and raccoons wreak much damage to the HVAC system. When they scurry through your attic or ducts, they're easier to hear, and they can munch through your ductwork. Warm and cold air will escape via holes in your ducts, considerably increasing your energy expenses. If you ignore the problem, your Ac unit will use more energy.

• Cockroaches

Cockroaches can squeeze through even the tiniest cracks due to their body shapes. They prefer relaxed, dark environments, which is why they sometimes make their homes in the ductwork. They don't do much damage, although you can hear them move. Regardless, you don't want them in your house at all because they can spread diseases.

• Spiders

Spiders, like cockroaches, can wriggle their way into tight spaces. If you don't keep your ductwork, vents, and indoor air conditioning unit clean and maintained, they might get into them. While spiders do not harm your HVAC system, they pose health damage because many spiders have venom potent enough to harm humans.

So how do bugs get into your Duct?

Unfortunately, the ways are alarming how these bugs get into your system. Insects and other animals may easily make their way into your HVAC system and subsequently into your house. Most HVAC systems provide a comfortable environment for animals. The grill on the condenser offers protection, and the condensation offers freshwater, and the machine's whirling may be a nice spot to remain warm at night.

Another reason bugs enjoy your HVAC system is the high humidity level. It can provide complete access to your house, and they can come in through ductwork, return vents, and small cracks in the walls. 

How can you prevent an infestation?

Bugs are looking for the same minimal shelter as humans are. The lights within your home, the cool temperature, and the presence of food all attract them. Your air conditioner may well be able to provide simple access to the interior of your home. Regular AC Maintenance is the first and foremost solution to this issue. Let us see some of the ways to prevent an infestation from them:

• Fill in the Holes

Fill with holes around the condenser unit with caulk or concrete. Even though the holes are small, they allow pests to enter your home through the air conditioner.

• Maintain Your Landscaping

Gardening is essential, particularly when it comes to your condenser. When it comes to AC and foliage, there are several ground standards that all residents should observe. Removing any potential breeding grounds for pests reduces the likelihood of bugs entering through the air conditioner.

• Keep Gutters and Downspouts clean

During the summer, dust, leaves, and other debris may quickly collect in your gutters and downspouts, and this accumulation provides an ideal setting for bugs and animals. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts regularly keeps pests away.

• Address leakage from AC unit 

Cockroaches are continuously on the lookout for water. A moist environment might be ideal for a family of roaches. That is why you should examine and repair any water leaks as soon as possible. Check your hose spigots to ensure they close securely. If you see any water escaping from your condenser, it might be more than just a magnet for roaches; it could also be an indication that something is wrong with your AC.

• Cover Air Vents 

Air vents are the most common entry point for pests. If you notice tiny insects or spiders in your home, they likely entered through a duct hole. Installing bugs screens on your interior and outdoor vents is one solution to these problems. You can do it yourself by removing the vent cover and using it to model how large the body should be. Use caulk and replace the vent cover if you need to connect the insect screen to an outer wall surface like a brick.

Regular maintenance is the most realistic approach if you don't want pests to infest your house and cause costly HVAC damage. Consider signing up for a maintenance agreement so that we may check and clean your house twice a year. To make an appointment, contact us on 800-3487 for a free consultation.