When outdoor temperatures start to drop in the fall, Grand Rapids area homeowners sometimes face a unique issue: animals in HVAC system equipment. Animals and pests that infiltrate your heating and cooling systems have the potential to cause great damage, so you want to take measures that keep them out. A-1 Mechanical shares how to spot animals in HVAC system equipment and how to prevent this pest problem.
Why Animals Enter HVAC Systems
It’s no secret that fall is chilly in our area – the animals outside feel this temperature change, too! When the days become shorter and colder, they begin to look for shelter and warmth. Unfortunately for homeowners, HVAC systems are often an attractive refuge for Michigan critters such as:
- Mice
- Rats
- Squirrels
- Chipmunks
- Cats
- Opossums
- Raccoons
Animals in HVAC system equipment get inside either by causing damage to create an entrance, or they enter through existing openings. They also cause significant damage while inside your system components, chewing wires, leaving droppings, and more. Animal damage often requires significant furnace repairs. With pests inside your heating and cooling system, especially if they are able to enter the duct system, you are likely to experience foul odors inside the home and may be exposed to diseases carried by these animals.
After an animal infestation in your HVAC system, you want to have your ducts and other equipment cleaned to remove droppings and debris left behind. Have your HVAC system thoroughly inspected by a professional to identify component damage and ensure repairs are made to avoid further problems with your heating and cooling equipment.
How to Tell if You Have Animals in HVAC System Equipment
Fortunately for Grand Rapids homeowners, animals in HVAC system equipment give off noticeable signs. If you have animals in your heating and cooling system, you are likely to notice:
- Foul odors from the animal’s nest, droppings, or even a dead animal.
- Noises as the animals move around in your system, coming from ceilings, walls, and below the floor where your ductwork runs.
- Holes that allow entry – flexible ductwork is especially prone to chewing and clawing from animals, but pests also make their way into your system through holes along the foundation of your home.
Prevent Animals from Entering Your HVAC System
The best way to prevent an issue with animals in HVAC system equipment is to take action before they get in. This fall, take the following steps to prevent a cold weather animal infestation:
- Look around your home for points of entry. If you identify holes along your foundation, seal them up.
- Examine visible ducts in areas like your crawl space, attic, and basement. If there are any gaps, holes, or disconnected sections, an animal is able to enter. Repair these duct issues right away.
- Check your dryer exhaust vent. While animals won’t necessarily enter into your HVAC system this way, it’s another common point that animals use to enter homes. Make sure your exhaust vent cover is secured.
HVAC Help from A-1 Mechanical
If you experience animals in your HVAC system this fall season, call A-1 Mechanical for help. Our licensed HVAC technicians repair the damage caused by the infestation and help prevent further animal problems at your home. Contact us today to schedule service.